[KL7AA] RE: John Bierman - KL7GNP

[SIRDRAKEJR@aol.com]

    As I age I see more and more hams are passing from the scene. Each time I 
recognize another one's passing, I remember them by the name and callsign. 
Names from Alaska like Tim, Al, Del and George that have gone on bring flashes 
of memories. Most times it is hard to recall what they looked like, but 
sometimes I do. In some cases I fondly remember the hams in the company of another 
like a couple that belongs together. Couples like Al & Debbie, Wilse & Betty, 
John & Dottie. That is how I last saw them and how I still remember them. I see 
more and more of my past friends listed in the QST column of silent keys. Most 
I remember only in general with no specifics. Yesterday, the 27th of July, I 
got an e-mail of another passing. Unlike most others, it immediately brought 
to mind many things. I saw him immediately as if time had not passed us by. I 
remember the times I went to his home and was always greeted by that warm smile 
that welcomed me not just TO his home but INTO his home. As he shook my hand 
and put his left hand on my shoulder ushering me into his home, that let me 
know he was sincerely offering me the warmth of the home. As he led me to the 
kitchen in the rear of the home, his voice said volumes about this easy going 
manner and how he felt about those around him. His wife, Dottie by his side; let 
you know that the home was truly one of love and everyone was welcomed in the 
same way. He was the QSL manager for a long time and I saw how he managed the 
files so every ham would get the cards sent to them. John enjoyed being a ham 
and helping others be hams as well. He was at flea markets, swap fests and 
club meetings and always ready to help another ham. He was taller the me and 
weighed less and I remember his sweater hanging lightly on him as he walked. He 
was steady and not quick. I moved from Alaska in July of 1983 and after all 
these years I was surprised at how the notice of his passing brought all those 
memories back as no other has. I didn't know John well and the little time I got 
to spend with him and Dottie were always pleasant and far too short. It is 
the memories such as this that causes me to retain my callsign after all these 
years. Although I have left, my heart still returns to the times that were so 
enjoyable and the people, like John, that made them that way. After 20 years I 
can say that I will miss John. His smile, his warmth and his grace. I can 
imagine hearing God as John went home, "Welcome John, I have been waiting. I have 
some things that need a warm heart and steady hand to organize and you are 
that one person who can do it. Welcome home." Farewell John, and God speed.
73
Frank
KL7IPV


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