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Remembering John Van Meter |
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Written by Ann Sasaki
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Monday, 04 September 2006 |
John Van Meter launches on a good day at the Dump - photo by Andy Stocker |
Remembering John Van Meter
Ann Sasaki
I wanted to write a little about John Van Meter who taught many pilots to fly when he lived in the Bay Area and who extended friendship and welcome to those who visited once he moved to Tahoe. John was always smiling and laughing and making sure that everyone was having fun and flying safely. John loved to fly and he loved sharing that joy with others. Beyond his life as a pilot, he was also a caring friend and an inspiration to many. At John’s memorial service, held in the huge grassy meadow close to Slide, more than 100 people gathered to celebrate John’s life. Friends recounted so many wonderful stories about John. The minister who married John and Lori recalled that when he and John were kids in Carmichael, John persuaded him to get on a skateboard for the first time and ride down a steep hill. Despite crashing at the bottom, the minister remembered that ride fondly as it embodied John’s love of adventure and excitement. I think there were three people who said that John inspired them to quit their day jobs and become snowboard instructors. The folks from Alpine Meadows spoke fondly of working and playing with John. Many people said that John showed them what was truly important in life.
A particularly notable speaker talked about how he would be hanging out at John’s house waiting for someone else to show up and John would say the nicest things about whomever was about to arrive. This speaker said he learned from John how to look for the best in people. He said, “It’s not just us saying nice things about him, he used to always say the how wonderful his friends were.”
One person said that John and Lori ran a “home for wayward boys” at their house in Soda Springs. He said that he was very grateful for their hospitality and friendship when his life was at loose ends and he needed a place to stay. I don’t think there was ever a person who met and got to know John who didn’t receive constant invitations to stay over or share a meal at John and Lori’s house.
John was the quintessential teacher – his students recalled how he had carefully tutored them, always showing that he cared about their safety and always encouraging them and supporting them.
Friends of John’s played guitar and sang songs that reflected upon his love of life and the joy he created. During the service, the breeze blew softly at points and there was much love in the air. We could feel that John was with us and that his spirit will live on with us. Lori Van Meter said she knew that John would want her and all of us, to go forward and live joyful, meaningful lives.
I think all who knew John would agree that our lives were enriched by knowing him and that we couldn’t possibly think of him and not end up smiling or laughing about some happy time we shared.
As Dale Munsterman said, “Gentle winds, my friend.” Well he's walking through the clouds..... - photo by Tom Bair |
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Last Updated ( Tuesday, 05 September 2006 )
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