I would like to thank all who attended today, it was good to see such support for Paula and her family. It was, as Dr. Bill said, tough, but I believe that Mike was there with us, laughing and enjoying the company of so many of his friends as we celebrated his life and what he meant to all of us. I also know that Mike was with Bob Lewis and everyone else today, enjoying their company also.
We all have traveled so many different paths to where we are today, but the commonality is that Mike was our guide, our friend who gave his encouragement to continue onwards, when we sometime doubted or slowed down not sure of our next step. But some how, with his guidance, we all have arrived at the same destination this time together, and that alone is a testimonial to his wisdom, perseverance, and belief in each of us. Soon, I know that I will begin a different path, this time alone, but knowing that his guiding hand is there gently nudging me to a destination unknown to me, but confident that Mike knows where it will end. I would like to believe that Mike has set each of us, once again, on different paths to each of your own destinations, but collectively, whose destination will undoubtedly once again be the same. I believe in my heart, that Mike will be with each of you in your future flights, as co-pilot, watching over you all. As long as a "Baby Beech" is flying his spirit will be there. As long as a "Baby Beech" is operational, his efforts to keep it that way, directly or indirectly, will make him smile and provide comfort to him that his passion for them was not in vain.
I owe a lot to Mike, as each of us probably do in some form or fashion, but I know that a simple Thank You was more payment in his eyes than anything else I could have offered.
Mike, rest in peace, rest comfortably. I am honored that I was able to call you a Friend, as some many others have also. I will miss you.
Rest well my friend....
Monty Spencer
