I have to say that I really didn't know much of Uncle Bernard in my younger days – either I was too young to remember or possibly memory fade. It was when we started spending winter vacations in Florida and he and Aunt Marion were retired there that we got to spend time together. At one point they lived close enough that we would go bike riding together every day while I got to listen to the stories of his life and that is when I really came to know him. We shared many interests such as building and airplanes. While I was training for my pilot's license, Uncle Bernard was keenly interested and we spent many hours chatting about all things flying. When I bought the airplane, Uncle Bernard was a frequent companion in the cockpit. He was always fascinated by anything mechanical and the airplane was no exception. I clearly remember taking him with me to a fly-in in the Collingwood area – we had a great day flying up and back as well as looking at all the other airplanes and talking with the other pilots. He was in his glory and he often reminded me of that day. I also clearly remember us flying in Florida over to the Gulf and south around Tampa one evening. It was one of those beautiful nights when the air was calm and the lights below were spectacular. I have pictures of Uncle Bernard at the controls of that flight and when I see those pictures, I'm right back there – great memories. When Claudia and I were engaged, Uncle Bernard and Aunt Marion were the first to be invited by personal invitation. Claudia only new Uncle Bernard from my stories and she was anxious to meet the subject of so many good memories. They welcomed her with open arms as I knew they would and we were so happy they could be with us on our wedding day. I always enjoyed every visit with Uncle Bernard because we always had some project on the go to discuss and I sure learned a lot from him. I will always remember his "On Geez!" and the many laughs we had over the years. It is a sad day when anyone leaves this earth and this one is no exception but I think Uncle Bernard would be the first to say he had a good life. I know we are going to miss him but he has left us with many good memories and when I think of him, it is with a smile - I think that says a lot. Uncle Bernard, I know you will be keeping an eye on all our future projects and when I hit a snag and the answer magically pops into my head, I will be sure to give you and Dad proper credit. We are going to miss you. Douglas Gee
