Friday, September 9, 2011
I'm writing on behalf of the Pleiter family to convey our condolences on your loss. My father Derk was a crew mate of Alex's - the pilot of the Lancaster crew for which Alex was the trusted and revered navigator. Our entire family was deeply touched when Alex made the trip from Watford to London to pay his respects at the visitation for my father who passed away on June 14. Even though the journey was a bit of a challenge for him (he confessed to becoming lost when he followed "inadequate" directions to the funeral home, courtesy of a misinformed fellow on a road crew), he told me that he was determined to make the trip. "I'm representing Arnold as well," he explained, referring to the (now) lone survivor of their crew, Arnold Graham, who called me last night with the sad news of Alex's passing. I spoke with Alex at some length that sad day and was so grateful that he'd made the trip. He told several stories about Dad, and his pain at his loss somehow made our pain just a little bit easier to bear. We were both a bit teary-eyed when we said our goodbyes, but then it was a pretty emotional day. I may have spoiled the moment, though, when I asked the funeral director to give Alex directions. "That won't be necessary," he said quite firmly. Of course, I didn't argue the point, but just wished him safe travels. I also remember fondly visiting with Alex and Muriel in Port Franks when our family was vacationing at a cottage at nearbyIpperwash Beach (in the mid-90s I think). We had a lovely meal and great conversations and I thoroughly enjoyed hearing our parents swap stories. Theirs was a remarkable generation and it seems to me that our parents epitomized the strength, resilience and good humour that were the hallmarks of this amazing group. Arnold gave me pause last night when he said, "Derk and Alex got us back safe from all our missions, and there were some hairy ones. I probably owe them my life." I told him how glad I was that they did, since I wouldn't be here if they hadn't! We laughed at that, but it's true - and for an increasingly large group of people as each generation comes along. The Minister who officiated at Dad's funeral recited 'High Flight' and used the imagery of flying and the peace and freedom that it brings to great effect. It was a comfort to his family; perhaps it's something your family might also find comforting. Safe travels, Alex. Shelley Pleiter Kingston, ON spleiter@business.queensu.ca
