One last jump with a friend
To the editor:
As promised, on Nov. 8, 2015, some of Archie Whitt’s close friends divided his remains into 5 equal Zip-lock bags, and carried their precious cargo up to Punta Gorda airport on one crisp beautiful morning. Bucky, Dahlia, Michael, “Surveyor Mike'” and brother Calen kept a solemn promise made to Archie before his passing in July to give him one last jump!
As they free fell from some 13,000 feet, and on cue, they all released Archie’s remains to the destiny of the winds and the jet stream. Archie was now free to enter God’s kingdom with a little help from his friends.
All involved remarked what a mystical, magical and spiritual experience it was for each one after hitting the ground. They were humbled and proud to be chosen for this journey, and reminded of their own mortality.
After a soft and safe landing, all remarked at how damp and rather wet they all were. Confusion soon turned into joy and celebration. You see, on that day, among the crowd, was a chaplain who explained to all that the wet jumpers were rewarded with Archie’s “over abundance of tears” at seeing his close friends “up close and personal,” one last time.
Goose bumps and many tears rippled through the crowd at his revelation! One last prayer for Archie, of course, followed.
All reading this are invited down to Ragged Ass Saloon to meet these wonderful people. Pine Island people really do take care of their own, and in the best way possible.
From me and my great friends, thank you one and all for your kind words and prayers in Archie Whitt’s behalf.
Tom Pollock
Bokeelia