When I heard of Bill's passing I was in the midst of the worst case of the flu I've had in my life. I just was not up to commenting here feeling as poorly as I did. The news about Bill certainly didn't help my situation; being extremely sick and extremely sad at the same time was rough...
Okay, Bill. I first met Bill Rutherford at the 1974 Nats in Lake Charles, Louisiana. He was flying his gorgeous rendition of Al Rabe's Mustang. There are certain people you meet in life who instantly become lifelong friends. Jim Kostecky was one for me, and Bill was another. I suspect that many feel this way about Bill. He had a way of getting into your heart right from the get go.
As the years passed by, Bill and I had many phone conversations about modeling subjects, but also discussions about all facets of life, family, faith, and friends. I don't think Bill had any enemies... He did have a ton of brothers.
I last spoke with Bill just a few days before his passing. He seemed to be fine, and, as always, was in great spirits. He always opened with the same line each time he called: "Hey Bobby.” I'll miss hearing that opening phrase from this kind and gentle man.
Guys, we are losing such great people at an alarming rate. There is nothing we can do about that, but we can make efforts to insure that each time we speak with a friend that we leave them knowing just how much we care for and about them.
Godspeed Bill Rutherford; I can picture you setting your "light" Mustang down in the pits with the planes belonging to the likes of Bob Gieseke, Lew McFarland, Roland McDonald, Don Shultz, Don McClave, Allen Brickhaus, Gene Schaffer, John D’Ottavio, Dave Cook, and all the other stunt fliers who have passed from this existence. It may be a long time between flights with so many in line, but just imagine the great stories that will be shared while awaiting your turn on the circle.
Bob Hunt