For Terry: A fixture of Alaska aviation, and a loved friend

Terry might not know everyone, but everyone knows Terry! Folks calling on the radio to say, “Hey Terry, that you?” was a daily occurrence inside the C46. Sometimes Terry would say, “Who was that?” That’s what 20 years of being a fixture in the Alaskan sky gets you. Not only in Alaska, but all throughout the world of aviation; as a favorite part of the jumpseat conventions, or a grass strip barnstormer down in AL, he is loved and admired by any who interact with him.

More than his great skill as an aviator, what truly sets Terry apart is his willingness and determination to help those around him. He is always there to come to your side when you need it. I have seen him countless times go out of his way to take care of people.

Now it’s time for us to take care of him. One of our very own.

I had the distinct pleasure and absolute joy of being Terry’s last co-pilot in the C46 and he can’t fire me now. (Though he is so connected he probably could if he wanted to.) If there’s one thing I know, it's that Terry is a proud man and would never ask for help. When he reads this, I’m gonna be in some serious hot water. So be it. Too many people love him and care about him and are asking if there is a way they can help.

Many know that last year Terry was diagnosed with multiple types of cancer. Without getting too deep into the weeds, he’s had better days. It’s been a tough road of medical trips back and forth to Seattle and many other doctors and tests. But worse than all of that was the loss of his love and passion; aviation. When he was diagnosed, he immediately lost his job of the last 20 years. We all can imagine what that would be like. Yet, through it all, he hasn’t stopped calling young pilots and offering help, or checking on his friends.

A lot of his friends and contemporaries asked me to set this up and I think it’s a great idea. I want us to pour out our love on a man that has always given.

Terry would never ask for this and I’m already nervous about the hell I’m gonna catch for it. But I know he will appreciate the much-needed help.

—Ben