Absalom is gone

Hi all:

I created an account just so I can respond. Absalom was family to me and my family is in close contact with his family in Germany. I just wanted to thank you all for the thoughts, prayers, and condolences. Please know that I'll be sure to pass them along to his German family.

This man was like an uncle to me. The impact he's had on my life is indescribable. He was a teacher, friend, family, confidant, advisor - he also taught me how to use a firearm (and gifted me a S&W!). Seeing your memories of him is bittersweet. He will be so missed.

Please know that his family will hear about this thread.
 
FlashCrux said:
Hi all:

I created an account just so I can respond. Absalom was family to me and my family is in close contact with his family in Germany. I just wanted to thank you all for the thoughts, prayers, and condolences. Please know that I'll be sure to pass them along to his German family.

This man was like an uncle to me. The impact he's had on my life is indescribable. He was a teacher, friend, family, confidant, advisor - he also taught me how to use a firearm (and gifted me a S&W!). Seeing your memories of him is bittersweet. He will be so missed.

Please know that his family will hear about this thread.
Click to expand...

FlashCrux, thanks so much for taking the time to respond here. It may sound crazy to you, but many members here on the forum consider other members to be like family even though we may have never met in person. Absalom/Burk was this type of member. He was well respected and extremely knowledgeable on guns, as well as history and other things. He helped me a few times on some Walther PPK's and holsters I acquired. His knowledge of all things German was amazing. I never realized the physical obstacles he had to deal with on a daily basis, but that is because he didn't complain about it or let them hamper him in what he did here. You could tell he had been a teacher.....once a teacher, always a teacher. And it is easy to see why he would have been a superb advisor and confidant. Know our prayers are with you, his family, and friends.
Sincerely,
Larry
 
I can understand and appreciate the relationships that can be developed through an online forum. Finding this thread and reading all of your sentiments has been heartwarming for my mom and I. And, as mentioned, we'll share the link with his family in Germany, as well.

I'm glad that he had such a great place to share his knowledge and passion for all things guns, history and whiskey. You all should see his whiskey collection! He did have some incredible challenges physically over the past 25 years or so. He never lost his humor. And you all are right - he was a fantastic teacher. He once introduced the topic of terrorism while wearing a black ski mask. The best part is that a student was being loud in the hall so he went to the door, leaned partway out, and loudly called, "Hey, you! Be quiet and get to class!" in his thick German accent. It was a fantastic moment that had the entire class laughing. The kid in the hall... probably not so much.

For those of you local or near Oregon, please let me know if you're interested in details as we plan a celebration of life. It will likely be in September.

Thank you for your message, Larry - I am so sorry that you all have lost his insight and friendship, too.
 
FlashCrux said:
For those of you local or near Oregon, please let me know if you're interested in details as we plan a celebration of life. It will likely be in September.
Click to expand...

I'm not local to Oregon, but it's been on my list for quite some time to drive up from California to McMinnville to see the Spruce Goose at the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum... so I'd be interested.
 
Sad, and shocking news. May he Rest In Peace.
 
And may I also thank you, FlashCrux, for taking the time to continue informing us about Burk's sad passing and following events. Not easy for you, I know. Interesting to hear about his whisky collection: our last PM (personal message) in June concerned a new grade of Jack Daniel's. Burk did regret that liquor stores in Oregon were state-run, so not all variations were available. And I read several of his posts in the Ukraine thread: from his clarity of expression and knowledge of subject matter, I can see how he would have been chosen for the Fulbright program.

I'll try to forward you that last PM I received from him. Take care.

Kaaskop49
Shield #5103
 
Muddyboot said:
I was wondering if we should start a post or sticky dedicated to members who have passed on. Anyone think this is doable ?
Click to expand...

We have the post history of our Absent Comrades housed in the forum archives.

It is a wonderful place to get lost in and reminisce.

I am a frequent visitor.
 
Memorial Service

Hello all:

I promised previously to share any details regarding a memorial service for Burkhard Gebauer (Absalom).

It has been scheduled for October 15th at 2:00 pm at Golden Valley Brewery in McMinnville, OR. There will be food to share, as well as coffee/tea/water. The brewery is one of Gebauer's favorites, though, and has a great beer selection if you're so inclined.

If you are able, please feel free to join us! He is a well-loved member of our community, and we hope that all who appreciated him are able to come.
 
Thanks for the heads-up on the service. I regret that I will not be able to attend. However, on that date I will be thinking of my friend Burk and reflecting on his many sterling qualities.

Regards,
Charlie
 
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