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:

Tom was a unique and unforgettable pilot friend who profoundly influenced the author's early flying years, encouraging a joyful and adventurous approach to aviation.
The article recounts numerous quirky and memorable adventures shared with Tom, including navigating unexpected storms, informal night flying, gourmet cooking, and incidents involving his distinctive plane and pet snake.
Tom's life tragically changed after he suffered a severe beating, leading to a drastic personality shift, heavy drinking, and ultimately, his suicide.
Despite his tragic end, Tom left an indelible mark on the author, who cherishes their friendship and memories.

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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.