Let Me Tell You About Tom

Here's to the friends who bring us into the aviation fold.

Martha Lunken

Friday, June 30, 2023 at 11:40 AM ET

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[Credit: iStock]

Key Takeaways:

The article is a heartfelt tribute to Tom, a unique and inspiring friend who introduced the author to the joyful, informal side of flying and fostered a deep, lasting bond beyond traditional instruction.
It details their shared adventures, from navigating unexpected weather in a Piper Cub to informal flying lessons and experiences that showcased Tom's quirky personality and the camaraderie of early aviation days.
The narrative shifts tragically when Tom's personality drastically changes after a brutal beating, leading to his struggles with anger, alcohol, and eventual suicide.
Despite the tragic end, the author remembers Tom as a "forever friend" whose spirit and profound impact on their life and love for flying remain vivid and unforgettable.

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I wish every pilot could find someone who not only encourages but profoundly affects his or her early years in the air, someone who is there for a lifetime of flying and who you will never forget. Not an instructor or mentor, but just another pilot who encourages you to embrace and enjoy the glorious fun and not-so-serious side of flying. And I hope you’re lucky enough that it’s a person as colorful and kind, as funny and intelligent, as quirky, competent, unique, and loyal as my friend, Tom.

Tom was one of the ‘60s and ‘70s “South Line crowd,” mostly young guys, but actually pilots of all ages. They had no problem accepting and welcoming kindred spirits in “the Franke girls” (my sister and me). Most owned little airplanes and spent nearly all their free time at the airport, which had far fewer restrictions and regulations in those days—certainly no locked gates and 8-foot fences. Maybe I’m looking through rose-colored glasses at old memories, but I’m pretty sure it was a time when people seemed to enjoy, trust, and even take care of each other.