"L" == Longworth writes:

L Shortly after our visit, Bill was readmitted to the hospital
L with another bout of pneumonia. He managed to hang on for
L another year in and out of the hospital. He passed away two
L weeks ago at the age of 56, a year after his last plane ride.
L The ride we gave him was priceless.

Great story, and this ending reminds me of a long-time neighbor and
friend. After more than 15 years living next to each other we both
moved away, but still kept in touch. I finally gave him an airplane
ride one Fall, over some territory he planned on hunting deer, and we
were trying to spot them. Never did see any deer, but we had a great
time slowing cruising over the area.

I never saw him again, as he died of a massive heart attack just a few
months later after Christmas.

THE CLOCK IS WOUND BUT ONCE

Author Unknown but with a nod to Darlene Virginia Quarles

In a hangar at the airport
Where a brooding pilot blinks,
Deeply graven is the message--
It is later than you think.

The clock of life is wound but once,
And no man has the power
To tell just when the hands will stop
At late or early hour.

Now is the time you own;
The past's a golden link.
Go flying now, my brother--
It is later than you think.