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PINDEX
2004 - Sept.7th-9th
I was on my way to Vegas as of Mon. Sept 6th for
my 2nd Pindex Event in Sin City itself, Las Vegas. This has to be
the best pin event by far - and definitely the most attended.
I had a great time meeting up with old friends, as well as meeting new
ones. The cocktail party on Tuesday was awesome as always, even
though this is the 2nd year I've had more than my share to drink; those
bad influences :-) The 1st Annual Herrington Bear Picnic was held on
Wed. am and was a great success; we got lot's of goodies and a great
turnout. The trading hall was packed on Wed/Thurs. like it is every
year. Thursday morning was the Knights of Pinfest Breakfast held at
the Cafe - they always have a wonderful set up there, even if I did have
to be up at 5:00am and in line at 5:30am! Friday was my last day in Las
Vegas and I will never forget, heading to the lobby to check out by noon I
ran into my drinking buddy Bernd from Germany and he swept me up in a bear
hug like he always did and gave me a hug and a kiss and said "Have a
safe trip home and I will see you soon my friend". Little did I
know that those were the last words I would have with the big guy.
On the way to a friends house in Phoenix to spend one more night with
friends before heading back to Germany that Saturday, Bernd was killed in
a 2 car collision about 75 miles outside of Phoenix, sometime between
4-5pm on Friday after leaving Vegas. When I got the call on Sat.
morning it was almost like I couldn't believe it, I had just seen him less
than 24 hours ago - knowing he passed away just hours after I saw him
devastated me, but when the initial shock wore off, I felt so blessed and
honored that I was one of the people that got to see him and say goodbye
before he was called home.
For those that knew him know what I am talking about when I say he was a
wonderful person and friend with a heart of gold - never once did I not
see a smile on the big man's face - he is what made the HRC hobby fun, he
cared more about the people and lasting friendships he made rather than
the pins - those were just an added bonus. Please also check
out the Memorial page of Bernd put together by David Rodriguez at www.davidrod.com/bernd.htm So,
to my friend Big Bernd Goebel, rest in peace big guy - this page is for
you! The memories I shared with you in the days before your death will last a
life time! "YES PLEASE" - Many Corona for you buddy! In
Memory of Big Bernd Goebel - Nov. 2nd, 1962 - Sept. 10th, 2004 |
