July 26, 2012

Ernie Sailer, 1917-2012

My father has died at age 95.

Here are a few pictures.
L.A. County Art Museum, 1984
This was taken during the 1984 Summer Olympics, when my father was 67. A general theme in these photos is that he usually looks about a decade or more younger than he really was, which reflects his robust health.

Cabo San Lucas, 1985
Two striped marlins, mine 110 pounds (took about 45 minutes to reel in), my father's 155 (took 75 minutes). We thought we were hot stuff until the next boat brought in a 506 pound blue marlin.

Honda 90, about 1967
I hadn't previously noted my Dad's resemblance to a French comedian. The child actor looks like a drip, though.
Hiking in Topanga Canyon, late 1990s
Atop Lembert Dome, Tuolumne Meadows, Yosemite, October 1986
Atop Sugarloaf, Rio de Janeiro, May 1978
on

301 comments:

  1. IHTG7/26/12, 3:18 AM

    My condolences.

    ReplyDelete
  2. SFG7/26/12, 3:23 AM

    My condolences, sir.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Seneca7/26/12, 3:24 AM

    Sorry for your loss Steve. My condolences.

    ReplyDelete
  4. blighter7/26/12, 4:04 AM

    Condolences, Steve.

    ReplyDelete
  5. AMac7/26/12, 4:06 AM

    Thanks for posting this. Sharing a few reminiscences of a good man with your readers.

    Condolences.

    ReplyDelete
  6. Anonymous7/26/12, 4:10 AM

    Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccata mundi, miserere nobis, dona nobis pacem.

    ReplyDelete
  7. Anonymous7/26/12, 4:12 AM

    My condolences, Steve. Sorry for your loss.

    ReplyDelete
  8. Chris Anderson7/26/12, 4:17 AM

    My condolences, Steve.

    ReplyDelete
  9. Svigor7/26/12, 4:18 AM

    My condolences Steve.

    Somebody said it better than I would have on the other thread:

    Shame about your dad but I guess it was his time. Take comfort in knowing he lived through probably the most pleasant times in human history.

    I'll add that 95 is a hell of a run. My dad only made it a couple years past half that. My grandad almost got that far, though.

    Those of us who grew up in intact families with good relationships with our fathers should count our blessings. Seems like every other guy I bump into hates his old man, didn't really know him, etc. Mine was my best friend, and from what I can gather you and yours were very close.

    ReplyDelete
  10. Rob7/26/12, 4:24 AM

    What a great childhood you had! And what a full life your father seems to have led! The photo on the moped was priceless. He looked so content and confident.

    ReplyDelete
  11. Rob7/26/12, 4:25 AM

    Great pictures! What a childhood you had! And the photo of your father driving the moped was very evocative. He is smiling and looking up and into the distance. So content and confident. Everything is right with the world. What a great life he must have led!

    ReplyDelete
  12. The Anti-Gnostic7/26/12, 4:40 AM

    God rest his soul, Steve.

    ReplyDelete
  13. Dr Van Nostrand7/26/12, 4:45 AM

    May he rest in peace.He seemed to have lived a long ,productive,and happy life in no small part due to you.

    My condolences.

    ReplyDelete
  14. theo the kraut7/26/12, 4:49 AM

    A life well lived. Condolences, Steve.

    ReplyDelete
  15. Anonymous7/26/12, 4:58 AM

    Very sorry for your loss, Steve. May he rest in peace.

    ReplyDelete
  16. Anonymous7/26/12, 5:00 AM

    It looks like you guys had a lot of great times together. You've often mentioned the insanely stressful job he had. You'd never know it looking at these joyful pictures.

    ReplyDelete
  17. Wes7/26/12, 5:01 AM

    Sorry for your loss. He was a quite an accomplished gentleman and lived a good, long life. Has the world ever changed as much as did during his lifetime? The things he saw. You are all in my thoughts.

    ReplyDelete
  18. keypusher7/26/12, 5:08 AM

    Condolences, sir. You were proud of him, and I hope he was equally proud of you.

    ReplyDelete
  19. milam command7/26/12, 5:11 AM

    You were lucky to have each other. A wonderful family. Wonderful life. I grieve for you.

    ReplyDelete
  20. Anonymous7/26/12, 5:18 AM

    My condolences. Very sorry to hear this news. Thank you for giving us a portrait of him in your posts over the years. A life well lived.

    May he rest in peace, and may perpetual light shine upon him.

    Laban

    ReplyDelete
  21. Joe Schmoe7/26/12, 5:20 AM

    Terribly sorry for your loss. Your father was obviously a great dad; the pictures, and your occasional references to him, demonstrate that. I am sure that he was proud of you and the way you have raised your son.

    ReplyDelete
  22. Hunsdon7/26/12, 5:21 AM

    My condolences, Steve.

    ReplyDelete
  23. Anonymous7/26/12, 5:24 AM

    Steve - do you have any pictures of him during WWII or Korea [or even Vietnam]?

    Or is it all still classified?

    Thanks.

    PS: Bonus points if there are any fighters or bombers [or, God forbid, either The Dragon Lady or The Blackbird itself] in the background.

    Thanks again.

    ReplyDelete
  24. Anonymous7/26/12, 5:26 AM

    I'm very sorry for your loss, Steve.

    ReplyDelete
  25. Steve Sailer7/26/12, 5:28 AM

    A commenter on another thread said:

    "Take comfort in knowing he lived through probably the most pleasant times in human history."

    Yup. His family moved to California in 1929. He worked hard to have a good life, but it was definitely a good life.

    He was skiing 70 years ago, before there were ski lifts -- put your skis on your shoulder and hike up. He was there when somebody lugged a Model T engine to the top of June Mountain and hooked a rope tow to it.

    In the 1930s in Malibu, he'd swim out past the breakers to the kelp beds, dive down to the ocean floor with a knife in his teeth, and pry Giant Abalone off the bottom, then roast them in a bonfire on the beach.

    ReplyDelete
  26. NOTA7/26/12, 5:28 AM

    My condolences.

    ReplyDelete
  27. alexis7/26/12, 5:34 AM

    He's smiling in every picture.

    ReplyDelete
  28. FWG7/26/12, 5:36 AM

    I'm very sorry for your loss, Steve. I'm sure he is very proud of his son. Great pictures as well.

    ReplyDelete
  29. Zach7/26/12, 5:46 AM

    My condolences for you and your family's loss.

    Your post movingly typified, through family photos, the end to a carefree era and the beginning of a brave new world.

    He seemed like a very happy man (judging from the photographs), which in this day and age can be quite the feat.

    Zachary

    ReplyDelete
  30. Anonymous7/26/12, 6:08 AM

    I'm so sorry to hear that. Thank you for posting the lovely photos.

    - A Solid Citizen

    ReplyDelete
  31. ben tillman7/26/12, 6:12 AM

    Please accept my condolences.

    ReplyDelete
  32. Anonymous7/26/12, 6:18 AM

    Wow, what a wonderful long life. Great that you had so many years to know and enjoy him.

    ReplyDelete
  33. TH7/26/12, 6:27 AM

    Condolences, Steve. From your references to him over the years I always got the impression that he was a good man.

    ReplyDelete
  34. Prof. Woland7/26/12, 6:28 AM

    Steve,

    I am sorry for the loss of your father. My thoughts are with you today.

    ReplyDelete
  35. Anonymous7/26/12, 6:33 AM

    Looks like he lived a full and happy life. My regards.

    ReplyDelete
  36. Anonymous7/26/12, 6:35 AM

    Condolences. Lost my daddy (88) a few months ago. Hugs from Italy

    ReplyDelete
  37. Aaron in Israel7/26/12, 6:36 AM

    My condolences. He seems like a good father who loved you very much.

    ReplyDelete
  38. stari_momak7/26/12, 6:41 AM

    From this, and what youve written about him previously, your father like a wonderful American, one of the millions of unsung who helped build the greatest, more powerful nation-state on earth.

    Sorry for your loss.

    ReplyDelete
  39. Bruce Banner7/26/12, 6:46 AM

    Having never met him, I can sense what a great father he was. Sorry, Steve!

    ReplyDelete
  40. Neal7/26/12, 6:58 AM

    A life well lived.

    ReplyDelete
  41. FredR7/26/12, 7:06 AM

    I'm sorry for your loss.

    ReplyDelete
  42. Anonymous Rice Alum #47/26/12, 7:20 AM

    My condolences to you and your family.

    ReplyDelete
  43. Mr. Anon7/26/12, 7:24 AM

    My condolences at your loss, Steve.

    ReplyDelete
  44. Anonymous7/26/12, 7:25 AM

    Condolences

    ReplyDelete
  45. Unknown7/26/12, 7:27 AM

    My condolences, too. I lost my father two years ago and I still find it hard to realize he's gone. I appreciate your fine photos and great memories. Thank you for sharing them.

    ReplyDelete
  46. Anonymous7/26/12, 7:27 AM

    deepest sympathies.

    Frank C

    ReplyDelete
  47. Anonymous7/26/12, 7:28 AM

    "Take comfort in knowing he lived through probably the most pleasant times in human history."


    What I find really sad is that America's political and economic leaders are working tirelessly to undermine the foundations of our good fortune. Comparing the situation 50 years ago with the situation now, I'd say that their efforts have been most successful in California.

    ReplyDelete
  48. kaganovitch7/26/12, 7:30 AM

    Condolences. A life well-lived is a thing of beauty

    ReplyDelete
  49. Florida resident7/26/12, 7:35 AM

    My condolences and fascination by your father.
    Your F.r.

    ReplyDelete
  50. Anonymous7/26/12, 7:36 AM

    did you inherit any money or property?

    ReplyDelete
  51. Anonymous7/26/12, 7:38 AM

    Thanks for posting.

    The marlin photo brought back fond memories of my dad and me fishing at the Deerfield Beach pier. No marlins were caught there, but a sailfish occasionally was.

    Based on the photos, I can only hope that I'll be as good a dad to my son as yours was to you.

    ReplyDelete
  52. Dahinda7/26/12, 7:41 AM

    Sorry for your loss!

    ReplyDelete
  53. Anonymous7/26/12, 7:46 AM

    Sincere Condolences, Mr Sailer

    ReplyDelete
  54. Anonymous7/26/12, 7:49 AM

    Eternal rest grant, o Lord.

    ReplyDelete
  55. Anonymous7/26/12, 7:55 AM

    My sincerest condolences. We need more men like him (and you).

    ReplyDelete
  56. Theresa7/26/12, 7:55 AM

    So sorry about your dad, Steve. From everything you've written about him, he sounded like a great guy!

    (And being the man who invented the red wine-applesauce slurpee he's a-okay in my book!)

    ReplyDelete
  57. Anonymous7/26/12, 7:56 AM

    Condolences for your loss. Take comfort in his having seen the best of America.

    ReplyDelete
  58. Glaivester7/26/12, 8:03 AM

    Sorry to hear about your father. I lost mine last year, and I know what it is like.

    ReplyDelete
  59. Carol7/26/12, 8:07 AM

    I'm so sorry about your loss, Steve.

    Sure remember those Hondas...I bought a new 125 that same year. I wish I still had it!

    ReplyDelete
  60. Luke Lea7/26/12, 8:08 AM

    Sounds like you had a good experience. When mine died (at a similar age) it was like the final chord of a beautiful piece of music.

    ReplyDelete
  61. beowulf7/26/12, 8:10 AM

    I'm sorry for your loss Steve.

    I always enjoy reading about your dad (mixing wine and apple sauce, genius) and I trust your stockpile of cool Ernie Sailer stories is far from exhausted.

    ReplyDelete
  62. beowulf7/26/12, 8:12 AM

    I'm sorry for your loss Steve.

    I always enjoy reading about your dad (mixing wine and apple sauce, genius) and I trust your stockpile of cool Ernie Sailer stories is far from exhausted.

    ReplyDelete
  63. neil craig7/26/12, 8:21 AM

    95, compos mentis, fit & with you as a son.

    I don't think anybody could have asked for much more.

    ReplyDelete
  64. Anonymous7/26/12, 8:21 AM

    My sympathies, Steve. It should be a consolation that your father had a son of whom he could be proud.

    ReplyDelete
  65. Kylie7/26/12, 8:23 AM

    I am so sorry for your loss.

    Thank you for sharing your stories and photos of him with us over the years. They showed a man who was fully alive and lived a full life. These last pictures are real treasures.

    How lucky you were to have had him as your dad.

    ReplyDelete
  66. as7/26/12, 8:28 AM

    I'm sorry for your loss.

    ReplyDelete
  67. Anonymous7/26/12, 8:30 AM

    I love these pictures and I thank you for sharing them with us. I think of the kids not lucky enough to have had such a father and I think I know you well enough through your writing to know you think of that often too.

    I am very sorry for your loss, Steve, yet happy for you and the rest of your family that you had such a dad and had him for so long.

    Be well.

    ReplyDelete
  68. Anonymous7/26/12, 8:32 AM

    Amazing Grace.
    Robert Hume

    ReplyDelete
  69. Hereward7/26/12, 8:34 AM

    Very sorry to hear it, my condolences. It sounds like he had a long, good life.

    ReplyDelete
  70. Anonymous7/26/12, 8:48 AM

    You and your father were both very, lucky to have each other. I am so, so sorry for your loss.

    ReplyDelete
  71. Josh7/26/12, 8:55 AM

    Condolences, steve.

    Praying for you and your family.

    ReplyDelete
  72. Anonymous7/26/12, 8:58 AM

    Sorry for your loss Mr. Sailer.

    ReplyDelete
  73. Sheila7/26/12, 9:00 AM

    I'm sorry for your loss, Steve. Thank you for sharing some lovely father and son photos.

    ReplyDelete
  74. Anonymous7/26/12, 9:06 AM

    Condolences, especially since he sounds like he was a really great father and a really great guy.

    --bbtp

    ReplyDelete
  75. nooffensebut7/26/12, 9:10 AM

    My condolences.

    ReplyDelete
  76. Kai Carver7/26/12, 9:11 AM

    My sympathies. Beautiful post.

    ReplyDelete
  77. ArikSharon7/26/12, 9:23 AM

    I'm so sorry! What wonderful pictures to remember him by.

    ReplyDelete
  78. Anonymous7/26/12, 9:28 AM

    May God bless your father in heaven, your family and you.

    ReplyDelete
  79. Auntie Analogue7/26/12, 9:31 AM

    Tender sympathies tendered, Mr. Sailer. Grieve well and, when time brings ripeness, carry on.

    ReplyDelete
  80. Chief Seattle7/26/12, 9:37 AM

    My condolences Steve. Those are wonderful pictures. Clear evidence of a life well lived.

    ReplyDelete
  81. Anonymous7/26/12, 9:37 AM

    Hiking in Topanga Canyon... or somewhere else. The breeze on the leaves speaks softly about his family down there, and he smiles.

    ReplyDelete
  82. Anonymous7/26/12, 9:48 AM

    Rest in peace.

    He led an enviable life and lives on through his invaluable son.

    ReplyDelete
  83. Tom Piatak7/26/12, 10:04 AM

    Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.

    May his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

    ReplyDelete
  84. poolside7/26/12, 10:10 AM

    Steve ... I am sorry for your loss. Losing our fathers is a painful rite of passage, one that makes us seem both old and childlike at the same time.

    Your dad appeared to be an amazing guy, full of life. I know you will miss him.

    ReplyDelete
  85. Anonymous7/26/12, 10:14 AM

    Steve,

    I am sorry for your loss. You and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers.

    ReplyDelete
  86. Anonymous7/26/12, 10:23 AM

    My condolences, Steve.

    ReplyDelete
  87. Anonymous7/26/12, 10:30 AM

    so sorry, Steve, from a long time lurker.

    ReplyDelete
  88. Reg Cæsar7/26/12, 10:33 AM

    We'll miss him, too-- you've quoted him enough!

    ReplyDelete
  89. jz7/26/12, 10:34 AM

    looks like he lived a great life.

    ReplyDelete
  90. Anonymous7/26/12, 10:37 AM

    "He was skiing 70 years ago, before there were ski lifts -- put your skis on your shoulder and hike up. He was there when somebody lugged a Model T engine to the top of June Mountain and hooked a rope tow to it.

    In the 1930s in Malibu, he'd swim out past the breakers to the kelp beds, dive down to the ocean floor with a knife in his teeth, and pry Giant Abalone off the bottom, then roast them in a bonfire"

    Ok enough already - now I'm just insanely jealous.

    Life well lived- condolences.

    Dan in Dc

    ReplyDelete
  91. Anonymous7/26/12, 10:46 AM

    Sorry for your loss, Steve. He seems to have been quite a man.

    ReplyDelete
  92. eah7/26/12, 10:47 AM

    Sincere and heartfelt condolences to you and your family.

    ReplyDelete
  93. Fake Herzog7/26/12, 10:52 AM

    The stories you have written over the years about your Dad are wonderful (as are these pictures); I will pray for the repose of his soul. As others have said, it was obvious he led a long and good life and the world is a better place with him having brought you into it.

    My condolences and prayers.

    ReplyDelete
  94. Anonymous7/26/12, 10:58 AM

    Requiescat in pace...
    Poignant pics especially the last of you sawing and he watching. Can almost smell the sawn wood and feel the breeze and stillness thru the trees and the innocence of the times.
    Your father lived a full life it appears and loved and was loved, may the same be said for all of us.
    May you and yours be comforted in your time of sorrow.

    ReplyDelete
  95. Chuck Ross7/26/12, 11:01 AM

    A wonderful spirit. Shines through in the pictures you've posted.

    ReplyDelete
  96. Wade7/26/12, 11:03 AM

    My condolences as well Steve. Thanks for sharing the pictures and offering us a window into your childhood and upbringing. I bet your dad was a great man.

    ReplyDelete
  97. Wade7/26/12, 11:04 AM

    My condolences as well Steve. Thanks for sharing the pictures and offering us a window into your childhood and upbringing. I bet your dad was a great man.

    ReplyDelete
  98. Anne7/26/12, 11:13 AM

    May his memory be eternal.

    ReplyDelete
  99. Simon in London7/26/12, 11:32 AM

    He seems like a cool guy.

    ReplyDelete
  100. Ali7/26/12, 11:33 AM

    RIP.

    ReplyDelete
  101. Anonymous7/26/12, 11:34 AM

    I'm sorry for your loss.

    ReplyDelete
  102. Lisa7/26/12, 11:35 AM

    It looks like he had a good, long life. May he sleep in the arms of the Lord.

    ReplyDelete
  103. Anonymous7/26/12, 11:40 AM

    My sincere condolences.

    ReplyDelete
  104. rho7/26/12, 11:41 AM

    Cheers to you and your dad. May you live as long as he.

    I love the photo on the Honda CT90. Somebody should start building those again, they were great little machines.

    ReplyDelete
  105. Anonymous7/26/12, 11:44 AM

    Cabo San Lucas, 1985

    Somebody just went to see William L. Petersen as Richard Chance [had to have been - because Manhunter wouldn't be released until 1986].

    You are so totally busted.

    So. Totally. Busted.

    I'll bet you can even whistle the soundtrack from memory.

    LOL'ed.

    ReplyDelete
  106. Mark Seecof7/26/12, 11:48 AM

    I sorrow to hear of his passing. My condolences and best wishes to you and your whole family, Steve.

    ReplyDelete
  107. e7/26/12, 11:50 AM

    I'm so sorry Steve. Your Dad looks like an awesome guy.

    ReplyDelete
  108. Anonymous7/26/12, 11:51 AM

    Condolences.

    ReplyDelete
  109. Ray Sawhill7/26/12, 12:08 PM

    Sorry to hear it, condolences. Glad to know he had such a long and good life, though.

    ReplyDelete
  110. Jehu7/26/12, 12:16 PM

    I am sorry for your loss. I am sure his is greatly missed by those who he now leaves behind.

    ReplyDelete
  111. Anonymous7/26/12, 12:18 PM

    My condolences.

    Syon

    ReplyDelete
  112. Anonymous7/26/12, 12:19 PM

    Compare the scooter photo from this images from Jacques Tati's 1958 film "Mon Oncle": http://www.ecrans.fr/local/cache-vignettes/L450xH381/arton6891-33221.jpg

    I'm sorry for your loss.

    ReplyDelete
  113. Horace7/26/12, 12:19 PM

    Sorry to hear of your loss.

    I remember you telling us how your father drove away an eagle (or falcon ?)that you were worried would attach your pet rabbit from your back yard.

    Your dad figured out that you could do this by shining a mirror in it's eyes.

    all the best,

    Horace

    ReplyDelete
  114. dearieme7/26/12, 12:20 PM

    RIP. He played a fine innings.

    Condolences, Steve,

    ReplyDelete
  115. Anonymous7/26/12, 12:20 PM

    My condolences.

    ReplyDelete
  116. Ian7/26/12, 12:21 PM

    Sorry for your loss, Steve.

    Your father raised a man who has inspired and educated large numbes of people all over the world with his (your) clarity, insight, and courage - and that is part of the positive legacy of your father's time on Earth.

    ReplyDelete
  117. Anonymous7/26/12, 12:24 PM

    I'm so sorry for your loss, Steve. You have my deepest condolences.

    ReplyDelete
  118. James Kabala7/26/12, 12:28 PM

    Please accept my condolences.

    ReplyDelete
  119. DCThrowback7/26/12, 12:28 PM

    May he rest in peace, Steve.

    "Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee." Exodus 20:12

    ReplyDelete
  120. Mitch7/26/12, 12:30 PM

    I'm so sorry for your loss. It sounds like he had a wonderful life and clearly served as a great inspiration to you.

    ReplyDelete
  121. JayMan7/26/12, 12:34 PM

    My condolensces on your loss.

    ReplyDelete
  122. as7/26/12, 12:46 PM

    Thanks for sharing the photos.

    I remember there were others from Chicago?

    ReplyDelete
  123. Anonymous7/26/12, 12:53 PM

    My condolences. My own father was born in 1915 and lived until nearly 90. He worked two jobs to support his family.

    David In TN

    ReplyDelete
  124. Anonymous7/26/12, 12:55 PM

    RIP. What a great Father/Guy! Was he raised to be such by your Grandparents or did your Father get there all on his own gumption? Whichever, he pretty much had the best life has to offer for a fine long run!
    Certainly his memory will be cherished by your family & his friends. Thank you for sharing a few of yours.

    ReplyDelete
  125. Anonymous7/26/12, 1:00 PM

    I wonder what sort of America I'll see if I live to his age. I'm 20 now.

    ReplyDelete
  126. Geoff Matthews7/26/12, 1:01 PM

    You have my condolences. It's good to see that he had a good 92 years, and a good son.

    ReplyDelete
  127. Anonymous7/26/12, 1:01 PM

    Sounds like quite a great Man and Father. My condolences to you and your family.

    ReplyDelete
  128. Whiskey7/26/12, 1:01 PM

    My deepest condolences and my prayers for you and your family. God bless you and yours.

    ReplyDelete
  129. Anonymous7/26/12, 1:03 PM

    Just by the photos it is easy to tell your father was a manly man and quite a guy. His posture, facial expressions and positive attitude. My condolences. My dad hit the wall at 94.

    ReplyDelete
  130. Marc B7/26/12, 1:19 PM

    Your father looked like a robust man who really enjoyed life. Those photos make me sad not only for your loss, but also because it reminds me that my own dad is a workaholic who forgot how to enjoy life the same way once he reached late mid-life.

    My condolences.

    ReplyDelete
  131. Londoner7/26/12, 1:22 PM

    I hope you don't mind a perfect stranger offering you condolences, Steve, but I would like to do so. It sounds like your father was a terrific guy and will be much missed. A great American of the old school.

    ReplyDelete
  132. Lugash7/26/12, 1:30 PM

    My condolences.

    ReplyDelete
  133. TontoBubbaGoldstein7/26/12, 1:32 PM

    My condolences, Steve.

    ReplyDelete
  134. Anonymous7/26/12, 1:41 PM

    I appreciate the pictures.

    ReplyDelete
  135. DCS7/26/12, 1:45 PM

    We should all be twice lucky enough to have a life like his and a father like him. RIP.

    ReplyDelete
  136. DCS7/26/12, 1:46 PM

    We should all be twice lucky to have a life like his and a father like him. My condolences.

    ReplyDelete
  137. Cyprian Korzeniowski7/26/12, 1:48 PM

    My condolences, Steve.

    ReplyDelete
  138. Anonymous7/26/12, 1:53 PM

    Well done Ernie, Rest in Peace.

    ReplyDelete
  139. Alat7/26/12, 1:57 PM

    My condolences.

    ReplyDelete
  140. Tom7/26/12, 1:57 PM

    So sorry Steve.

    ReplyDelete
  141. Tom7/26/12, 1:58 PM

    So sorry Steve.

    ReplyDelete
  142. Anonymous7/26/12, 2:00 PM

    Comb and crucifix cube(?)

    Two marlins

    Easy Rider(with son than nicholson)before EASY RIDER

    Looking like Rio Jesus at Yosemite followed by Rio.

    Any significance to these pics?

    I wonder if Mr. Sailer Sr. had some Greek blood. He looked like John Cassavetes.

    ReplyDelete
  143. Charlesz Martel7/26/12, 2:09 PM

    Please accept my condolences. It seems like he was quite healthy right up until near the end. You are fortunate that you had him for so long.

    Best Regards.

    ReplyDelete
  144. Steve Sailer7/26/12, 2:12 PM

    Regarding my December 1985 Cabo look:

    "Somebody just went to see William L. Petersen as Richard Chance" in "To Live and Die in LA"

    Yes, I saw the move within the previous few weeks. Good call.

    ReplyDelete
  145. Anonymous7/26/12, 2:15 PM

    The pictures are great. I enjoy reading about your memories, and your obvious admiration of your dad. So many people have strained relationships with their parents You were lucky to have had him around for so long. My heartfelt sympathy.

    ReplyDelete
  146. Jeff7/26/12, 2:16 PM

    Sorry for your loss. My condolences to all the Sailer family.

    ReplyDelete
  147. Sid7/26/12, 2:16 PM

    It does appear he lived a long, healthy, well-loved life.

    ReplyDelete
  148. Anonymous7/26/12, 2:18 PM

    I knew it!

    The moment I saw that picture, I knew it!

    Man, those were some good times, though, weren't they - California during the Reagan Administration?

    Sweet, sweet memories.

    ReplyDelete
  149. Anonymous7/26/12, 2:20 PM

    Just curious. Why is junior trying to saw off senior's shoe?

    ReplyDelete
  150. Anonymous7/26/12, 2:24 PM

    I hope you don't mind another perfect stranger offering you condolences.


    Sorry for your loss.

    ReplyDelete
  151. Anonymous7/26/12, 2:28 PM

    Wonderfully evocative photos, of your father and his time.

    It's never easy to lose kin. But he looks like he lived life, and did it for 95 years.


    --Erich Schwarz

    ReplyDelete
  152. Anonymous7/26/12, 2:30 PM

    My condolences.

    Im sure a lot pilots and aircrews, flew safe thanks to your dad. And at that time, it was pretty important to keep those planes flying.

    ReplyDelete
  153. feral14047/26/12, 2:40 PM

    Condolences to you and yours, Steve. May your father rest in peace.

    ReplyDelete
  154. agnostic7/26/12, 2:41 PM

    He looks like an icon of California's Golden Age -- adventuresome, easy-going, and dignified. That shows the most in the Honda 90 picture, where he's got a thick head of dark hair at age 50, but is above having to show it off. Just enjoying the breezes run their fingers through it while taking his son out for a fun ride on a moped.

    ReplyDelete
  155. Grumpy Old Man7/26/12, 2:53 PM

    May his memory be eternal.

    ReplyDelete
  156. Dahlia7/26/12, 2:57 PM

    I am so sorry for your loss. Your dad looked and seemed like such a spark!

    Thank you so much for sharing his passing and these wonderful pictures with us.

    ReplyDelete
  157. Big Bill7/26/12, 3:03 PM

    You have my condolences, Steve. What a run he had, though! Worked post-war for a company with a good pension, robust health, thirty years of retirement. A good long run. The Lord truly blessed him.

    ReplyDelete
  158. Five Daarstens7/26/12, 3:05 PM

    My condolences.

    ReplyDelete
  159. Old Rebel7/26/12, 3:25 PM

    Looks like he was a good man who enjoyed a good life.

    ReplyDelete
  160. Anonymous7/26/12, 3:42 PM

    The pics prove that your Dad enjoyed life and time with you.
    What a great legacy.
    Plenty of fathers of this 'greatest generation' just didnt' seem to give a damn.
    Glad yours did.
    Condolences on his passing.
    JFK was also born in 1917.

    ReplyDelete
  161. Ron Mexico7/26/12, 3:44 PM

    My condolences, Sailer

    ReplyDelete
  162. Anonymous7/26/12, 3:49 PM

    My condolences, Steve. Splendid effort to make it to 95, too. May you and all your family members have such longevity.

    ReplyDelete
  163. Semi-employed White Guy7/26/12, 3:52 PM

    Very sorry for your loss. He was obviously a great Dad.

    ReplyDelete
  164. Anonymous7/26/12, 4:04 PM

    Condolences, from yet another anon.

    ReplyDelete
  165. Anonymous7/26/12, 4:10 PM

    Condolences. And surely he was proud of you. Best wishes to your family.

    ReplyDelete
  166. RKU7/26/12, 4:11 PM

    Very sad...

    ReplyDelete
  167. Billare7/26/12, 4:22 PM

    Every time you wrote about him, your love for father shone through. My sincerest condolences.

    ReplyDelete
  168. Anonymous7/26/12, 4:51 PM

    I'm sorry for your loss. My condolences to you and your family.

    ReplyDelete
  169. Anonyia7/26/12, 4:55 PM

    Sorry for your loss. I love the spirit of those pictures. It reminds me of my own grandfather, also of the Greatest Generation, who passed away a few weeks ago. They truly enjoyed the best years America had (or will have) to offer.

    ReplyDelete
  170. papabear7/26/12, 4:56 PM

    I'm sorry for your loss. May your father rest in peace.

    ReplyDelete
  171. kudzu bob7/26/12, 4:59 PM

    My condolences. He was obviously a fine man, and I am sure that you will miss him.

    ReplyDelete
  172. Anonymous7/26/12, 5:00 PM

    Countries are built by people like this.

    Losing one's Dad - this is always a tough one.

    Anon.

    ReplyDelete
  173. Carol7/26/12, 5:14 PM

    Ah, what great photos of a great relationship. Somewhere, someone is doing it right, now and then.

    ReplyDelete
  174. Anonymous7/26/12, 5:16 PM

    I'm sorry for your loss Steve. No matter how old he may have been few things are more painful than the death of a parent.


    Gloria

    ReplyDelete
  175. Anonymous7/26/12, 5:24 PM

    He was from a great generation of Americans, the same generation as my parents. In fact, he was born the same year as my mother. They didn't complain. They worked hard. They sacrificed for their kids. They understood personal responsiblity. How I wish we Boomers had turned out worthy of all that sacrifice.

    ReplyDelete
  176. Clutch cargo cult7/26/12, 5:33 PM

    Sorry about your loss, it's obvious from the pictures a life well lived.

    ReplyDelete
  177. Anonymous7/26/12, 5:33 PM

    Steve, your dad is gone now and so is California. Joan Didion writes about such extinctions. I'm very sorry for you and your family.

    ReplyDelete
  178. Skip G.7/26/12, 5:38 PM

    I'm sorry, Steve.

    ReplyDelete
  179. Anonymous7/26/12, 5:41 PM

    I wanna thank Sr. for the apple sauce drink. RIP.

    PS. Born during WWI and lived through Depression, WWII, 50s, 60s, and the rest. Wow, his eyes must have seen much.

    ReplyDelete
  180. Harry Baldwin7/26/12, 5:42 PM

    Sorry to hear about your father. Looks like he led a great life and a long one.

    ReplyDelete
  181. Maya7/26/12, 5:46 PM

    I'm very sorry for your loss. May you live as long as your father did, and may your sons live longer. Those pictures are pretty inspiring.

    ReplyDelete
  182. Anonymous7/26/12, 5:51 PM

    My condolences.

    Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.

    May his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

    ReplyDelete
  183. Anonymous7/26/12, 5:53 PM

    1917. Remarkable.

    -Justin

    ReplyDelete
  184. Anonymous7/26/12, 5:54 PM

    Let me just add that as sad as it must be for you and your family, take heart in knowing that he obviously lived a very long and happy life. It's really something to aspire towards. May we all be so fortunate.

    ReplyDelete
  185. chucho7/26/12, 6:04 PM

    Sorry for your loss, Steve. What a great tribute.

    ReplyDelete
  186. Luke Lea7/26/12, 6:04 PM

    This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  187. Mac7/26/12, 6:12 PM

    My sympathies, Steve.

    ReplyDelete
  188. Bill7/26/12, 6:19 PM

    My deepest condolences for your loss.

    ReplyDelete
  189. Richard7/26/12, 6:20 PM

    Sorry for your loss, Steve. RIP.

    ReplyDelete
  190. Anonymous7/26/12, 6:29 PM

    My sincerest condolences, Mr. Sailer. We should all pay tribute to a life well lived, as you've so eloquently described your father's. RIP

    ReplyDelete
  191. Anonymous7/26/12, 6:33 PM

    Steve, I'm sorry for your loss. My dad passed away this year at the age of 89.

    -meh

    ReplyDelete
  192. A Reader7/26/12, 6:36 PM

    Sorry for your loss Steve. He seemed like good man and great father.

    ReplyDelete
  193. Jeff7/26/12, 6:41 PM

    My sincerest condolences for your loss. I am sure your father died knowing that he had produced such a great man for a son.

    ReplyDelete
  194. Anonymous7/26/12, 6:49 PM

    Condolences Steve.

    ReplyDelete
  195. slumber_j7/26/12, 7:03 PM

    Your father looks like a lot of fun--for himself and for those close to him. My condolences to you and your family.

    ReplyDelete
  196. David Davenport7/26/12, 7:04 PM

    I'm sorry for the loss of your father, Steve.

    ReplyDelete
  197. Chad Buffington7/26/12, 7:22 PM

    Sorry to hear about your dad, Steve. Seems like he accomplished a lot and managed to live a great life. I'll consider myself very fortunate if someone can say that about me someday.

    ReplyDelete
  198. Acilius7/26/12, 7:26 PM

    Deepest condolences, Steve.

    ReplyDelete
  199. Anonymous7/26/12, 7:37 PM

    Sorry for your loss Steve. Born the same year year as JFK. That's a good run.

    ReplyDelete
  200. Lara7/26/12, 7:39 PM

    It must take a strong desire to live to make it to age 95, and it looks like your father had that.

    ReplyDelete

Comments are moderated, at whim.