Topic starter
18/12/2011 9:43 pm
Our own Alan Bates entered Hosperus Hospital Friday night. They are keeping him heavily sedated and his wife of 67 years, Rita, is at his side. He is resting comforably.
Alan has been in failing health for the past couple of months. Alan did not want any notices put on .org, but now your thoughts and prayers are needed.
A few weeks ago when Kenny Howe and I had the prevelige of appearing with Alan at the Howard Museum, he told me when I took him home that was his last public appearance. Like all news of that type, I didn't want to believe him, but he has steadily declined since then and for the past several weeks he has been in the care of hosperus.
I have known Alan for over 57 years and he has been a great influence in my life, so it is with a very heavy heart that I relay this news to you his many friends.
18/12/2011 9:58 pm
Alan
Thanks for posting now Jim. Those few of us who have known the gravity of Alan's illness have honored his request, but it is truly time to let the whole river community know. My visit to New Orleans last month was a bit melancholy, and I attributed it to finding out about Alan while enjoying several days on the NATCHEZ, which to me is Alan's greatest contribution to steamboating. Here's a blast on an Alpenhorn to Lawrence A. the architect and L. Alan our enigmatic river friend!
18/12/2011 10:17 pm
Our prayers and good wishes go forth to both Alan and Rita Tom and Carol Schiffer
19/12/2011 12:22 am
*Our friend ALAN*
Steamboating colleagues:
My best wishes and prayers with Alan. I'd had hints in the recent past but, for once, kept my mouth shut.
Alan has been an abiding friend for years in our exchange of letters [On paper with envelope and stamp] followed by his enthusiasm for E=Mail. These letters fill a number of manila folders. Thanks to Jim for passing the word.
R. Dale Flick
Coal Haven Landing, Ohio River, Cincinnati.
19/12/2011 11:38 am
Jim,
Alan and Rita are in our prayers!!
Carmen
19/12/2011 2:20 pm
Jim,
I am very sad to hear this! Both Alan and Rita are in my prayers.
Travis
19/12/2011 5:09 pm
I am sorry to hear this news. My prayers go out to Alan, Rita, and so many of my .org friends who have known Alan for so many years.
Wesley
19/12/2011 8:02 pm
I'm also including Alan in my prayers. He is a true legend.
JH
20/12/2011 3:02 am
God bless you both, Alan and Rita. The times I have had the pleasure of being with Alan on the Delta Queen are among the most treasured of my river experience. A true legend, indeed, and Diane's and my prayers are with you.
21/12/2011 2:53 am
My thoughts & prayers are extended to Alan & his family
21/12/2011 10:36 pm
Very sad to hear this news. I first met ALan in 1961 and knew him through correspondence prior to that. My thoughts and prayers are with Alan and Rita at this time. Alan has been an inspiration to all of us for a long time.
21/12/2011 11:32 pm
Update on Alan
An up-to-the-minute bulletin, courtesy of Kenny Howe.
At his request, Alan has been moved from his Hosparus room at Norton Medical Center to his residence, where he is resting comfortably.
Your continued thoughts and prayers for our good friend and mentor of many years are appreciated.