Mrs. Plymate was a Saint and we pray that the Lord will establish her soul where the righteous repose.
- Carmen, Danilo, Petar, Gabriela, and Andrea Simich, Reno, NV - July 7, 2003
Erral was such a nice lady and we are grateful we knew her and were able to be just a very small part of her life.
- Betty and Bill Bippert, Hanford, CA - July 9, 2003
... this is all too soon.
We have good memories of her at Halcyon Hot Springs that were reinforced by the pictures of her in the (UltraVan) 601 video.
I was so happy to have spent some time with her at Halcyon Hot Springs. She was such a lovely, vibrant lady.
- Graham and Nancy Dell, Bellvue WA - July 10, 2003
Erral was a sweet spirit. I always enjoyed my visits with her.
- Lindy and Nick Zimmerman, Salem, OR - July 11, 2003
Erral was so lovely and such a good friend. I loved her from the first time I met her. You two were a perfect pair and it was fun to be with you whenever we got together.
- Doris Dennis, Stockton, CA - July 11, 2003
Erral was a wonderful neighbor and friend. She will be missed.
- Ann and Mick Wood, Dallas, OR - July 11, 2003
There is no doubt about it, the world has lost a good lady and it has definitely left a hole in our lives. We will miss her.
- Jodi and Jim Girouard, Ocala, FL - July 13, 2003
I only knew her as a gracious hostess to a short notice drop in luncheon guest. I would have enjoyed knowing her better.
- Al Powers, Seattle, WA - July 14, 2003
You were certainly a team in every sense; both enjoying the same activities. It seems that she was too young to go.
I'm glad we all came to that reunion with you both and had such a good time.
- Margaret Young, Redmond, OR - July 14, 2003
I know your love for each other was rare and special.
- Alene Jacques, Portland, OR - July 15, 2003
Erral's gentle smile always brightened the room.
- Erin and John Hsu, Independence, OR - July 16, 2003
Erral and I went to high school together and worked together at the Granada Theatre in Montavilla. We were pretty sharp and had great looking uniforms. We carried I.D. so the civilian police would not pick us up because we worked till 11 p.m. on weekends. You met her during these years and we spent fun times together; like dancing in the basement to Glenn Miller -- ate dinner with her and her Mom and Dad ...
- Betty Swenson (Betty Gene Gardner), Walla Walla, WA - July 19, 2003
She was such a kind and generous person.
I will always remember the smile on her face when Steve, Julie, and I would visit. She always made me feel I was part of her own family.
- Debbie and Julie Christen, Vancouver, WA - July 23, 2003
There is not a day that goes by we do not talk and think about her. She was such a warm, caring, and insightful person; and, she never said no to a request even if it meant jeopardizing her own agenda. I will never forget the day I called her from the base as I thought I had locked my keys and money in the car. She dropped everything she was doing to get me. She was not a "push-over" either as Claude recounted in his story while in Jordan. I'll never forget the punctual meals for you and how she instinctively knew when she should hand you a tool or hold a board. She never lost her very first love for you, Glenn, and she clearly loved the children. She was so proud of you all and rightly so.
- Gay, Suzanne, and Linda Diers, Alameda, CA - July 29, 2003
I met Erral and Glenn when Glenn was attending the University of Oregon and he began working at my husband, Al's, Shell Service Station on Franklin Blvd. in Eugene, OR.
We enjoyed Glenn and Erral's company and we attended social functions together, such as a George Shearing concert at MacArthur Court on campus.
As our children came along Erral and I could often be found buzzing around town and the South Eugene hills in her little Volkswagen 'bug' making runs to pre-schools etc.
One summer Glenn flew the four of us to Lake Tahoe for the week-end. We had a great time and we have a home movie of all of us in a motel swimming pool, splashing around like kids.
In 1959 Glenn designed, and then built, along with Max and Galen Boles, a house for us on Columbia St. in Eugene. We thoroughly enjoyed living there for 5 years and then decided to move our children to the country. (Pleasant Hill)
Glenn and Erral, in the meantime, moved to California and for many years our only communication was through Christmas cards.
A few years ago they returned to resettle in Oregon in Independence. Erral called and gave us their address and invited us to come see them. We did and it was just as if they had never been away.
In 1999 when I was found to have Chronic Lymphcytic Leukemia and began making frequent visits to the Dr. Erral called regularly to ask what the reports were and how I was feeling. She was a very thoughtful and caring person!!
Erral was a precious friend and I miss her and treasure my memories of her very much.
- Betty Lindley, Springfield, OR - July 30, 2003
I wish I could remember the exact date I first met Erral because I knew she was someone very special in the life of "my" Glenn. He was the brother I never had and we had been close all our lives. I had seen him through infatuations with other girls, but knew that when he talked about Erral that she was different. She was good friends with my cousin, Betty Gene Gardner, and all were students at Washington High School in Portland. When I did meet Erral, I remember the beautiful eyes and hair and the quiet dignity that separated her from other teenage girls.. Glenn's mother, Jean, was my second mother and we talked about how serious Glenn was and she really liked Erral but did not think it would lead to anything serious because they were so young.
She was wrong and their wedding was a beautiful affair. I played the organ for the wedding, keeping my pink satin formal way too long because it reminded me always of their special day.
By the time Debra was born in 1952, I was married and living on Northrup Street in NW Portland. Glenn and Erral brought Deb to meet us and when she got fussy Glenn stuck a big knuckle first in water and then in sugar and it was the best pacifier I ever saw!
Over the years, I was able to visit them on Willamette Street in Eugene, on Shaniko Way in Salem, on Westline Drive in Alameda, at their beach house, and finally at their beautiful home in Independence. My treasured memory is the four days I spent with Erral this last May. Glenn and Deb were hard at work on a project at their hangar so Erral and I had more time for just the two of us than we had in 56 years.
Glenn was with me in Alaska as he was there on business at the time of their 25th wedding anniversary. He had such fun picking out a fur to celebrate that anniversary. Now, on the morning of their 56th anniversary, May 25th, we had a great breakfast at the little airport café near their home at the Independence airport. As I pulled out of the driveway for my trip home, Erral had just put up flag for the day and they waved goodbye. I never dreamed I would not see her again in this life but know we will meet again
Another memory is a time when I was visiting in Alameda and it was time for Claude to return from school. Erral excused herself to fix Claude his daily "after school snack" -- a box of Kraft macaroni and cheese. I seldom fix macaroni and cheese without thinking of Claude. Another of her legacies to all three children are the beautiful "Huffman" eyes
.- Selma Syme Brooks, Tacoma, WA - July 31, 2003
I have fond memories of her -- what a wonderful mother she was!
- Leslie Kessler (Brindle), Sandy, UT - August 7, 2003
I remember Erral as a gracious, soft-spoken lady who made visitors feel instantly at home. I have a fond truck-view-mirror memory of her gripping the wheel of that little Honda as we convoyed the Ultravan north on I-5 in May 2000. She seemed unflappable! I remember, too, in June 2003, how much fun we had at Halcyon Hot Springs, and what a pleasure it was to take her to and from the events. By then she was having difficulty getting around, but I never once heard a discouraging word from her. She was a remarkable woman.
- Ron Adams, Canoe, British Columbia - September 9, 2003
My Meeting With Erral
August 1999. My wife and I came to the Bay Area for a family visit. As customary, I used the trip to handle some matters related to our aircraft and arranged to meet my pen pal, Glenn, at his hangar in the Oakland airport.
At the scheduled time Glenn met us at the side gate reserved for hangar tenants, and led us to his place. There we met Erral.
It took a minute for us aliens to digest the name, and then I noticed those eyes which were scanning me, but not in a malicious way. Just the opposite. I immediately felt comfortable with her quiet and intelligent approach.
We spent a few hours together, including luncheon, and I was further attracted by the measured way she spoke and listened.
This single meeting was sufficient to tell me that I had met an extraordinary person and above all a human being. This is why, when she passed away in the same quiet way as she lived, at least during the time we spent together, I was very deeply touched and this feeling guided my conduct and actions before, during and after her funeral.
I am grateful to Glenn and the Pastor for having read during the funeral the Kaddish, the Jewish Mourner's prayer. It was as if I in person bid Erral farewell.
- Omri Talmon, Tel-Aviv, Israel - March 4, 2004
(7/6/03) From: Raymond Hoche-Mong, California
Subject: Birthday Into Eternity
Dear Glenn,
Danilo just telephoned me to give me the sad information about Errals death this past Thursday or Friday; I wasnt too clear on the day, but no matter. What is now of great importance is that you face your internal sunset and obtain the closure necessary to continue your life as best you can. No one can tell you much that makes sense about death and what that entails except that it is a landing spot on the way in lifes journey. It is inescapably part of life, just as much as birth is, so it is necessary for all of us to go through that event. Erral is OK now, its you and your children who need attention and closeness. I am certain that your whole family will recognize that with Erral gone, attention must now be focused on those who remain, especially on you.
My affectionate thoughts are with you and with yours. If youd like me to come to Oregon to share some conversation with you do not hesitate to let me know. You may be too busy and too taken by affairs that need tending, but Im available to be a presence, a sounding board for your thoughts, and to share a warm beer with you (yours may be cold).
Your friend, colleague, and supporter as always,
Raymond
(7/7/03) From: Omri Talmon, Israel
Hi Glenn,
My phone number is +972-3-6856036
As you can imagine I spent, and am spending, time and thoughts with
reference to the devastating news. I am not a believer at all, but I am
quite versed in my Jewish heritage, to which I add some of my own. About
two thirds of the Jewish religion have to do with inter human relations
rather than with religious matters. Read the ten commandments and you
will see: 6.5 have to do with a law codex, not with God. This is why
quite a few aspects of Judaism are really universal.
There is plenty of discussions about the issue of life and death. The
basic question, when one loses a dear one, is: "Why?". Well, one of the
answers is: "We don't know, but..." The BUT is summed up by Job (Chapter
2, verse 10): "What? shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall
we not receive evil?" This is the bad King James Version but I hope the
meaning is clear.
I attach a page I downloaded with the Mourner's "Kadish", There is an
English translation and some discussion. If you replace the three
"Israel" in the prayer by "Mankind" you have a universal prayer which
can be said by any believer. Please note that death is not mentioned
there at all:. The divine order is to live.
Please also note the appeal for peace. Obviously, war is the biggest
producer of grief and mourning, but this is also a call for internal
peace, for an acceptance.
With you at this terrible moment
Omri
(7/7/03) From: Valerie and Dick James, New Zealand
Subject: Re: Devastating Loss
Hello Glenn. We are so very sorry to hear this. We cannot find enough
words to express our sorrow and sympathy. Our thoughts will be with you.
Valerie and Dick
(7/8/03) From: Dwight Ewing, California
Subject: Re: Devastating Loss
Unbelievable, unbelievable, but there is some comfort in knowing it was quick and without suffering. Veta and I are so sorry, not only for Erral, but for all the pain that you, especially you, and the family are going through. Dwight
(7/8/03) From: Mike and Lorraine Beaton, Nova Scotia
Subject: Re: Devastating Loss
Glenn
We are so sorry to hear this!
Mike & Lorraine
(7/8/03) From: Don and Margaret Miller, Virginia
Subject: Such Sad News
Dear Glenn,
Margaret and I are greatly saddened to learn of Erral's sudden passing.
At times like this, linguistic skills seem so inadequate, but you and your family are in our thoughts and have our most heart felt condolences.
Our very best regards,
Don and Margaret
(7/11/03) From: Todd LaNeve, Pennsylvania
Subject: I'm So Sorry
Glenn:
I just learned about your wife's passing and had to send a note of condolence. I am so sorry for your loss. It's difficult to put the right sentiment into words for something like this, but I can only imagine the depth of your grief.
While we've only developed our friendship via the written word, I somehow feel as though I can share in your loss. For whatever it is worth, know that you and your family are in my prayers during this time of sorrow.
With best regards.
Todd
(7/12/03) From: Bill Creech, Texas
Subject: Your Tragedy
Hi Glenn,
I just heard that you lost your wife. Please accept my most heartfelt sympathies. Although I never met her, I'm sure that she was a Doll. This loss is bound to be the most meaningful that is possible for a long union such as yours.
I wish I could think of something to say that would help. The only thing worthy at a time like this is simply, "I'm sorry."
Best personal regards.
Cheers,
Bill
(7/13/03) From: Bob and Carole Henry, South Dakota
Dear Glenn, Carole and I are shocked to get the news, as with you guys its still hard to believe, we are so sorry. Extend our deep sympathy beyond yourself and to the kids also. We are thinking of you all, please keep in touch. Bob and Carole
(7/15/03) From: Freda Schmidt (Waynes cousin), Kansas
Subject: Debra's Mother
To: Wayne
Sorry to hear about Debra's mother. Our sympathy to you and your family in your time of loss.
Freda & Jerry.
(7/16/03) From: Ron and Evelyn Adams, British Columbia
Subject: Re: Devastating Loss
We just got back from holidays and were shocked and saddened by you
news.
Please accept our profound condolences.
I'm glad at least that we had a chance to spend some time with Erral at
the Halcyon rally.
Keep us posted on your situation and remember that you're always
welcome at our home in Salmon Arm.
Ron & Evelyn.
(7/16/03) From: Myrna Elmore, Beaverton, OR
Hi Glenn!
Just wanted to let you know that I rec'd your note yesterday. I'm glad that you like the plant. A saleslady in the florist shop said that she had seen you admiring it, so that makes me really happy.
Being with Erral was always pleasant for me. I wish I could have gotten to know her even better; but in my eyes, she was an exemplary wife and mother. She was so gracious and unselfish--thinking of others before herself. I'll always remember the care and kindness you both extended to me when I was on an adjudicating assignment in Salem. Other times we shared together were always a lot of fun! It's easy for me to see why I love and admire Debra as though she were my biological sister--she has so many of the qualities I've seen in both of her parents!
I'm sure that these are very difficult days for you, Glenn, but know that I'm praying that you will experience peace, comfort and rest that only God can give.
Myrna
(7/17/03) From: Omri Talmon, Israel
Subject: Erral Memorial
To: "Buttle, David" , "Campbell, Bryce" , "Crowe, Hugh" , "Dolin, Michael" , "Dykema, Skip" , "Green, Ernest" , "HARRIS, Bill" , "HARRIS, Nancy" , "Hipp, Karl" , "Horton, Charlie" , "Miller, Don" , "Nelson, Don" , "Pratt, Dave" , "shelton, Joe" , "Trudel, John" , "vanBladeren, John" , "Vandever, Dale"
Hi All,
By now everybody is probably aware of the sudden loss of Glenn's wife for 56 years, Erral. As I work very closely with Glenn for quite a while, not to mention the long choir year and a personal meeting, we developed a very special relationship and Glenn shared with me his feelings and devastation. I was "present" at the funeral by calling and listening to a cellphone which was placed on the podium.
The family has decided to commemorate her name in a special, aviation related, way: A memorial for Erral has been established at the AOPA Air Safety Foundation. In lieu of flowers and other means of expressing grief it was suggested that gifts to the Air Safety Foundation might be appropriate.
It is known as the:
Erral Lea Plymate Memorial Endowment
at:
AOPA Air Safety Foundation
421 Aviation Way
Frederick, MD 21701
(800) 955 9115
Direct line: Art Keefe, (301) 695 2027
The endowment will be a fund that generates income in perpetuity for the operation of the Air Safety Foundation. Each year, Erral will be recognized for her annual gift. It is an intriguing concept which the family likes very much, and Glenn feels that Erral would like it, too. She always supported the ASF with joint gifts (with Glenn), and he feels it would be appropriate for her to keep on giving in this way.
I like to bring it to your attention.
Regards
Omri
(7/18/03) From: Ernest Green, Guernsey, Channel Islands
Subject: Erral Memorial
Hi Omri,
I am saddened to hear of Glenn's loss, May and I have also been
married for nearly a similar time , he must be devestated.
Please let me know how and by what method I can do this, a
credit card would be the easiest way and May and I will be attending at
Tampa. if it is easier to do it there.
Please give my kindest regards to Glenn with our deepest
sympathy.
Regards Ernest
(7/18/03) From Dennis and Toni Springer, Salem, OR
Subject: Your Loss
Glenn,
Toni and I were very sorry to hear of your loss. To hear that Erral had little if any suffering is always a blessing. To lose a mate and life partner has to be one of the hardest things we each must go through. You are very fortunate to have your sons and daughter around you at this time. Please convey our condolences to the rest of your family.
Not having experienced this myself, but observing my Dad's reactions to the loss of my mother several years ago, I know that this can be a very hard time for those left to adjust and move on with their lives. If Toni and I can be of any help please feel free to call ( 503-390-9444 ) or email any time.
Sincerely
Dennis and Toni
(7/24/03) From: "TC" Johnson, Wyoming
Subject: Your Loss
Glenn,
I'm very sorry to have heard about your loss. Those of us in your "Comanche
family" wish you God's speed in recovering as much as possible from this
time.
T C Johnson aka twinkydriver
(7/24/03) From: Rodger Plymate, Mississippi
Hey there how are you? I regent not being able to get home for Erral's service but I was able to notify Tom, Sharon and my Mother so they could be there. She was always warm and gracious and I'll miss my favorite Aunt very much. What I was hoping for was that while flying that day when I was 7 miles closer to heaven to say my good-byes then. I wish I knew what else to say. God Bless You
(7/27/03) From: Monica Rehkopf, Gemany
Subject: Tragic Loss
Dear Glenn,
from Omri I have received the news of the sudden loss of your wife Erral. I would like to express our condolence to you and send you our sincere feelings and sympathy.
I hope that the wonderfully long life that you have been able to spend together with Erral will give you the strength to find peace and to carry on in her memory.
Many kind regards
Monica Rehkopf
(8/5/03) From: Steve Gomes, Caliifornia
Subject: Condolences
Glenn,
I just heard that your wife, Erral, passed away. Please accept my condolences.
Regards,
An Old Bechtel Hand in LA,
Steve Gomes
(8/21/03) From Ryan Ferguson, Florida
Glenn,
Wanted to wait for the appropriate time to pass my condolences. I am so sorry for your loss. I hope you're doing ok, glad to see you're trading email with your flying buddies.
-Ryan
(9/7/03) From Don Miller, Virginia
Hi Glenn,
It is so nice to hear from you for I have been concerned, thinking of you often and wondering how things are going for you.
How fortunate you are, to have found the right gal and been able to spend so many years together.
During our lifetime and in our society, these long happy marriages seem a privilege reserved only for a lucky few.
Aren't memories wonderful? Old letters, photos, family movies, reviewing the good old days when visiting with old friends, etc.
Your being stuck in the past for awhile, especially when the past was so pleasant, seems OK to me. Knowing you as I do, I'm certain when you are ready for it you will find plenty to occupy your time and that active mind.
It is nice to hear Jeff and you were flying and that you are now starting to give your projects some attention.
Take good care and all the best,
Don
(5/25/07) From Ron Reuther, California
Very sorry to learn of Erral's passing. I was always impressed that you and she were always together, every time I saw you. I was also aware that your interests were mutual, even in aviation, and that she was very interested and always pleasant in all of our discussions. You have put together a very nice and significant memorial to her in the website and in the Erral Lea Plymate Memorial Endowment at ASF. She would be proud.