Ann and I just returned from the funeral service for Fred. First up, many thanks to Debbie and Curtis Glass for taking me around and introducing me to Fred's family in attendance. A very fine group of folks.
Secondly, the funeral service was as appropriate as could possibly have been conceived. Fred was in a sterling white coffin with a blue stripe and his number 50, with his name lettered in the number. The first speaker was one of the Honor Guard that rides with Veterans in motorcycle escorts, which I'm sure you have all see, either in person or on television. That speaker, a Veteran himself, told of Fred's service in the U.S. Navy during WWII. Remarkable story and very interesting. Never heard those stories from Fred because he never seemed to talk about himself that much, mostly just racing. But thinking of that statement, talking about racing WAS talking about Fred. He was a truly great guy.
The pastor read appropriate scripture verses, remarkedly all attuned in some regard to racing. The service was concluded and the Honor Guard led off to the cemetery.
One thought that struck me as I sat in the Chapel was a scene I have watched many times of a win by The King, I believe at Daytona, when some videographer was just inside Victory Lane as they opened the gates to allow that number 43 Dodge to enter. I could almost see that number 50 of Fred Harper pulling through those Pearly Gates into a well earned Victory Lane. He was a fine man who has left a fine legacy. May he rest in peace.
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What a change! It's been awhile since I've checked in and I'm quite surprised. It may take me awhile to figure it our but first look it's really great.