This site is dedicated to the memory of Albert “Tippy” Ensell IV.
Services were held at the Peachtree City Christian Church in Peachtree City, GA on Saturday, August 16, 2014.
We would love to hear your stories and remembrances of Tippy!
Please tell us your “Tippy Tales!”
Miss you so much words cannot express – so not fair.
Love always. . . .
Hugs to you, you are in the hearts and minds of many Tanya. We love you. <3
It’s taken me a while to get to this point. Met Tippy in late June, 1979, Philippines.
My first big memory- Christmas, 1979- Tip invited all the “orphans” to his house for Christmas dinner. When I arrived, there must have been 30 people there. Way more than all the controller orphans at Cubi Pt. He had invited the ATC community of the carrier in port. Can’t remember which ship.
He greeted everyone wearing a Santa hat, a big Tippy Ho Ho Ho, a hug, and a gift. A gift for everyone who walked through his door. Mine, “Illusions” by Richard Bach. Still have the book.
That was Tip.
I miss my friend
R
I always enjoyed talking to the “Tipster”. He had a way that would make you just feel good about the day. Al, Jimmy and I worked on that Sunday/ Monday crew together for a very long time. We enjoyed vectoring together but I think we enjoyed more, giving each other a hard time right in the middle of a push. The man worked more midnight shifts than you could shake a stick at. Jimmy and I appreciated that so much.
I remember Al always cooking at work and explaining to me why he stopped eating meat. I just laughed and shook my head. I was a very long explanation.
“How you doing Brother Man” seemed to be a signature greeting from him, and then he would just as fast say “one minute” with his finger point up, turn the other way and start working on something. That was Tippy, always going at a faster pace that most of us.
I will miss our talks. He was a good friend. Rest in Peace Al.
I met Tippy when I was dating his sister Terri. I should have realized that what seemed a bit “odd” about him ran deeply through the whole clan. “Odd” has translated to over thirty years of lessons from my brother-in-law Tippy in the power of enthusiasm and lack of limiting boundaries. He seemed as excited about the sunset view in our back yard as he was about reaching the summit of Kilimanjaro. The hummingbirds wars at our feeder appeared to be as stimulating as sailing in the Caribbean. Sleep was an inconvenience in the way of “fun” which encompassed a range from painting a friend’s house to birding with his niece.
Always the Pied Piper of activity, irresistible force through the power of enthusiasm, and master of adaptation, Tippy’s humor (unique?), infectious good nature, and charming youthful approach to life is an unmatched gift to all he touched . A gift for life.
There are so many stories about Albert! So, many!!! His life was so big that it cannot possibly be contained to one website. But, we can use this forum to remember how much fun, and how much love we had with Tippy!
I had the honor and pleasure of working with him for the past 23-years and next to him on the staff for the past 9-years. Albert was larger than life! He never met a stranger.
One of his favorite sayings was “All who wonder are not lost” and he loved to wonder.
We went to New Orleans for his bachelor party. My “job” was to keep track of Albert for Tanya and keep him out of trouble. I did pretty good with several momentary disappearances, but I always found him.
Well, it was getting late and my job was to get him back to his room safe and sound. We actually made it there and I put him in his room, told him to stay put, and heard him lock the door. Thinking (stupidly) that I had accomplished my task, I went to bed.
The next thing I knew, the sun was coming up and I get a text – “I disobeyed.” Albert had gone back out into the French Quarter, found Les, and spent the rest of the night having a great time with his son. I’m sure Les wouldn’t trade that experience for the world!
Albert was a free spirit – and now his spirit is free. I will miss my friend. Love you Albert!!!
I cannot wait to see you in God’s heaven, where I know you are. PLEASE keep watch over all your wonderful children. Les is flying out on your birthday to Dallas. I know you hear me in heaven, pLease, PLEASE ,PLEASE watch over your son les add he travels to Dallas for business and Tanya as she flies to Indiana. As well as PLEASE WATCH over your children as they go through life and there are no words to express how much how much I personally miss you and how much I love you and always WILL. Your passing has hit me harder than expected. You made our life happy and we miss you and Tanya more than words. I love you papa bear
He never ceased to amaze me! Al an I were friends for the 14 years I worked at ATL/A80. He always supported our Union and his job. More importantly, he supported his family. Al’s love and commitment to his children was always first and foremost. He was a PROUD PAPA!!!
Life is always throwing us curve balls and has a way of challenging us to the point of wondering why? Can I make it through this?
Tippy went through his share of challenges and never once did I see him down and out, or feeling sorry for himself. He would always smile, was always positive and never had anything negative to say regardless of his circumstances…NEVER!
You my friend are a class act, set the bar very high and will always be missed. Thank you for being a friend!
I had the pleasure of knowing Albert since he got to ATL in 1990 (I believe). He was always fun to work with. For those that knew how he worked airplanes, it was always an adventure. The one thing we always tried not to do was have Albert and Scott Thompson work final next to each other. They were the “swoop” brothers! It was comical to watch.
One of the funny things that Albert, Jim Allerdice and I would share with one another is Albert’s old saying as we hung up the phone “Love You, Bye” or LYB, for short. Jim and I continue it to this day.
Throughout our years of working together, I was privileged to help him in his walk with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We had many conversations about our walks and continued to encourage one another in our faith.
I can honestly say my life is greatly enriched because of knowing and fellowshipping with my brother Albert. I will miss him dearly….until we see one another again.
I love you, Albert, my brother.
Albert was “One-of-A Kind”, and that’s a good thing.
Worked with his Dad in ORL?MCO in the late 70’s/early 80’s Couldn’t have found a nicer guy!! My wife had a couple of his kids in her class at Booth Middle.
Don’t remember when, but Albert was on Ground South, and I was on Local II. An outbound DAL Push, with things happening.
Alberts got em lined up outbound, but no strips over to me on LCL. All of a sudden, Albert yells into the mike, “talk slower, I’m a Trainee”. Wish I could have heard the other end of the conversation after that.
Albert, May the Lord Bless and Keep You, May His Face Shine Upon You, This Day, and Forever.
I was a brand new Local Controller at my first duty station, NAS Cubi Point, Republic of the Philippines. It was 1979, and at that time Cubi Point held the distinction of being the busiest single-runway airport in the world, military or civilian. Tippy had been my primary trainer (he often told me he feared for the future of air traffic control after one of my training sessions, always with a smile), and right after my certification I was moved to a different crew to supplement manning. This was a bummer because Tippy and I had also become fast friends, and now our different schedules would preclude many of the shenanigans that we loved to indulge ourselves in.
About a week after changing crews I came in for the eve watch and was told I’d be starting out on Local Control. The fleet was in port, and the airport was stuffed with helicopters and carrier-based aircraft (F4’s, A7’s, F8’s, A6’s, etc…,). When the fleet was in port, the traffic count doubled, often reaching 1,500-2,000 operations per day, which to the uninformed is a lot of airplanes to move on a single 8,800’ slab of concrete. To say I was “nervous” would be a supreme understatement, and as I made my way up the stairs I had to fight off the nausea growing in my gut.
Reaching the tower, I found Tippy working Local in his usual posture—that lanky frame of his slouched into a tall chair, feet up on the counter, a pair of aviator sunglasses riding shotgun to his view of the mayhem outside. The pattern was full of jets and several were holding short on both sides of the runway at the approach end. And to complicate things even more, there were helicopters coming and going like low-level flies, all of them needing to cross the runway at some point to get to their ramp area.
I watched for a few moments before announcing to Tippy that I was there to relieve him. He was talking non-stop for the most part, and without looking my way said, “plug in and pay attention.” The frequencies were jammed and mirrored the chaos Tippy was manhandling in that typical cool way of his, while all I could think of was running away. But by and by, Tippy got me up to speed on what each aircraft was doing, who was next for takeoff, which pilots were being cantankerous, etc…
“You got it Scotty,” he finally asked? I always hated being called “Scotty,” but in that moment it felt somehow reassuring, like maybe I could survive after all.
“I got it Tippy,” and that’s when he turned and looked at me for the first time since I’d arrived in the tower cab. He had paper reinforcements on his sunglasses, those little sticky rings used to fix the holes punched into paper so they could then be placed back in a three-ring binder, “paper assholes” as we squids always called them, one on each lens of his sunglasses, right in the middle, right in his field of vision…how long he’d been controlling like that I’ve no idea, but in spite of this strange impediment to his vision, he was killing it on a busy, crazy day when the rest of us were merely concerned with surviving until the end of the watch with some degree of sanity!
He stood up and unplugged, and as he turned to make his escape from all the madness, he smiled at me like everything was as it should be and simply said, “I hate helos Scotty,” and then he was gone.
I talked to Tippy last week for about forty-five minutes. It was the first time we had talked since 1986. He and Tanya were planning a trip to California in October, were going to stay at my house…we’d hike, go to a concert, taste some wine and catch up…I was looking forward to living large for a few days with them in that special way that you did whenever Tippy was around…and I wish I could hear him call me “Scotty” one more time.
I was sitting next to Albert one day in the old TRACON. I was working final — not sure what Albert was doing. But we had a special visitor in the facility that day — the Secretary of Transportation. A member of the president’s Cabinet. In other words, a pretty big deal with the guys in coats and ties falling all over themselves. The DOT Secretary at that time was Federico Pena. So Albert mulled that name over a couple of times and turned to me and said, “You know, that name sounds like somebody who would be coming in out of the bullpen. ‘And now, in to pitch the bottom of the eighth inning, Federicooooo Peeeeen-yaaaa!'” We all had a good laugh, as did the Secretary of Transportation who, unknown to Albert was standing right behind him at the time.
On another occasion, we were at a NATCA party at the swimming pool in the Collonade. The adults are mostly eating and drinking and the kids are in the pool. All of a sudden Susa is frantically trying to get Albert’s attention. “Where is Palmer,” she says. “I can’t find Palmer.” “Don’t worry,” says Al, never looking up from his plate. “We’ve got five more.”
Although my good friend Albert was taken from us much too soon, I take comfort in knowing that in this lifetime, Albert Ensell lived life to the fullest. Oh, did he live!
Albert, I love you Man! Where can I start? When you look in the dictionary under ADD or ADHD, Albert E Ensell IV’s photo is along side. Al was always in constant motion and when he worked for me at A80 as a PPS, he never saw a deadline, he didn’t miss!
Many years ago, the FAA came out with a special annual calendar advertising one of their new, and improved programs. The calendar was made of lightweight cardboard, flattened, but could be unfolded to form a globe/sphere. Typical of FAA programs, we received (a slew) of these calendars in late November for the current year.
Tippy had just completed a project (only) a few days late, and I placed one of these calendar in an envelope and presented it to Tippy, as a form of my appreciation and extreme gratitude for almost making a deadline. Albert really got a kick out of this (sic) humor, and unbeknownst to me, he pirated the remainder of these (useless) calendars from my office.
Just before Christmas that year, I received a Government envelope at my home address, with no return address. When I opened it, one of the calendars was inside……I still smile about that, and of course, Albert denied knowing, or having anything to do with this escapade.
Over the years, even after I retired at the end of 2006, guess what I’ve received in the mail, from you, know who!!!!!!
I’ll miss Tippy, more than I can put into words. He was indeed a character, a prankster, a one-of-a-kind individual, and I will pray for “IV” (as I often called him) and his family, as we grieve and (hopefully) celebrate a life taken from us way, way, way too soon…….I’ll really miss those calendars………..
So little time, yet so much to do. Albert was a kind hearted soul who looked out for everyone, regardless of what anyone else thought or what type of person they were. He always added a certain degree of unexpected adventure!
Last September, Albert, Tanya, Jim, Colleen, Stephanie, Beth, Randall, Caitlin, Robin and a few of Robin’s friends took a road trip to New Orleans. Both of my children were over 21 and my parents wanted to come to help them drink wine and play Black Jack. During one of the walking trips to and from the hotel, Albert stumbled across a wallet. He opened it to find it filled with cash, credit cards and a driver’s license that belonged to Harry A Dillon, my DAD! Before you ask, YES, Albert returned it with the cash……
My Dad was 2 or 3 blocks away, so the wallet was on the street for 5 minutes and no one else picked it up. Albert caught up and handed it back to Dad and said “This will be our secret”.
The hilarious part is that later on that day – the SAME THING HAPPENED!
My Dad didn’t tell Mom that he lost it the first time. The second time, Albert decided to give the wallet to my Mom to hold.
In the words of “ALPHA ECHO” – THEY WERE VISUAL!
I Was Blessed To Know A Man By Rom
I was blessed to know a man
Born of God near the Jersey Shore, Albert, meaning Noble and Bright.
He immediately mocked the doctor’s shirt and asked the nurse to go dancing that night.
I was blessed to know a man
Who eagerly served his country, believing all God’s children should be free.
A Navy man who was sailing through the ranks, until using a Battleship to water ski.
I was blessed to know a man
An adventurer, who sailed, peddled, hiked, and climbed his way around the globe.
He’d been there, done that, bought the Tee shirt and swiped the hotel bath robe.
I was blessed to know a man
The consummate professional in the office, but about town as cool as you can be.
Bursting with street cred’ and known to his hip friends as The Snoop Al Bee.
I was blessed to know a man
Passionate about food, his eating capacity quickly became FAA lore,
With his table-side mantra “Well, maybe I’ll just have one more.”
I was blessed to know a man
Who loved and served God
Who was a loyal, loving, supportive husband
Who adored his children beyond measure
Who was the kind of friend that had your back, your front, and your sides
Who was passionate about every aspect of life, every day of his life
Who saw the best in everyone and every situation
Who touched every person he ever came in contact with
Yes, I was blessed to know a man
Who left such a lasting, lifetime impression on me that until I see him again in heaven,
I will strive to live, every day, a little bit more like he did, so hopefully one day,
when I get to see Albert again, somebody will say of me
“I was blessed to know a man”
There are several memories that I carry about Albert, but two that stand out the most to me are these two, I hope I remember them correctly:
1. One day, Albert is at his cubicle discussion how he had been trying to obtain some test scores the previous night, I think it concerned his pilot license. During the conversation, Albert mentioned how the guy he was dealing with wouldn’t provide him his scores and he was getting frustrated. As Albert was engaged with this individual, he mentioned to this guy that he was in the FAA. Well, according to my memory, Albert indicated that the gentlemen thought Albert was trying to portray himself as a FAA Inspector and that Albert was trying to intimidate him. Regardless, Albert was unable to obtain his test scores at that time.
So, being the non-prankster that I am, I went and had a discussion with Mike Jenkins about this revelation and we agreed that we should “prank’ Albert. The idea was that Mike had received a call from the Southern Region concerning a complaint from this individual that Albert had falsely represented himself as a FAA Inspector and the bigwigs wanted Albert’s hide.
I went and briefed Jim Allerdice about what we wanted to do, and that he should be Albert’s Rep when we had this discussion in my office. Of course, Jim was all in.
Shortly thereafter, I notified Albert that I needed to see him in my office and that he needed to bring his Rep. Albert and Jim walked into my office, in which Mike Jenkins was already in there, and the three of us commenced to “prank” Albert. At first, Albert was very skeptical about being in trouble, and smelt that something was fishy until Mike Jenkins mentioned a term in his presentation of how much trouble Albert was in. Albert stated later, that at first he was skeptical, but then when Mike used the term “Brother” in the discussion, Albert’s demeanor changed and he started believe that he was really in some serious ca-ca. As Jim and I are doing everything we can to not burst out laughing at Albert’s discomfort, Mike finally let Albert off the hook and informed him that he had just been pranked. Albert, true to form, laughed at the joke at his expense and calmly proceeded back to his cubicle.
2. Just before I retired, I was at Albert’s cubicle when I looked down on the floor and noticed he had this dilapidated leather carry bag, that was coming apart at the seams and was spewing its contents on the floor.
So, I decided to “prank” Albert again. I went into my office and I retrieved a nylon satchel that I had gotten at a previous safety seminar. I advised Albert that he could have this item, but that he would have to earn it, and that I would let him know what that entailed. I let him look it over, try it on and commenced to set the hook on his desire to have this satchel.
The next day I walked back to Albert’s cubicle with two items in my hand, one was a red t-shirt that had the inscription “Lose carbs eat Gator! Remember it’s Atkins Friendly” and the other was a red hat with the inscription ” Crush Florida Go DAWGS”.
I informed Albert that if he wanted my satchel, then he had to wear this two items during his entire shift, anywhere he went while in the facility. Of course he refused, but the desire for that “free” satchel, along with my continued dialogue of how great a satchel it was, finally cause Albert to relent. For proof, I grabbed my Iphone and snuck pictures of Albert when he engrossed in his goofing off and then included those photos in the weekly newsletter. At the end of the day,to cap it off, I told Albert as I gave him his new treasure, that I was going to give him the satchel without his having to put on these items, but in true Albert form, he just grinned about his actions just like the good sport he was even when it was at his own expense.
As most are aware Albert spent the last part of his career as a staff member and therefore did not maintain proficiency on the floor. He was however still required to maintain currency. He used to come in around 5 in the morning so he could plug in and get credit for everything.
I was the supe on the mid one morning when Al strode in headset in hand and smartly informed me that he was “gonna vector”. Well, the west coast boys had begin to show up and before you know Albert was covered up. Having seen this before I knew not to let my midshifters stray to far and so I had one plug in and work the final portion. This was maybe 6 months before Al stopped vectoring for good.
When the dayshift rolled in and Al got relieved he came over to me and said “Man, I just got hammered”! I said “Albert, don’t ever ask to vector on my shift again”. He put that one leg out to the side like he would at times and pointed his finger in front of his nose and with this long deep stare off to one side said ” Ya know Mark, you’ve gotten a lot wiser since your days as an ATA”.
Albert, you were such a joy my friend. You were smart, witty, funny, pleasant and just a great guy. In my opinion your one gift that made you so damn special was your ability to make every single person you knew feel like they were the most important in the world. You did that without even trying. God knows you will be missed on this earth you gentle soul but we will see you again I know. Albert, I love ya man!
First off, Mr.Ensell Always had a nickname for you. I cant think of to many times I was referred to as kelli. Good ole tippy always answerin the phone with a “yellow” I know he has loved passionatly to everyone whos come into his life. He was always so happy to play along with any fun, and he took life as an adventure. Im proud to say you, albert ensell, are a 2nd father to me and always made me eat my macaroni and pilons paroogie things at the table. He support our love for lord of the rings as kids and was one of the sneakiest people I know. He loved the lord and he loves his family I believe hes more then proud to have accomplished puttin together the wonderful friends and family he has. So this is my big thank you albert and to everyone who has shown him the love he deserves. Rest in paradise tippy.
My fourteen years as Albert’s cubicle buddy, have truly been a blessing to me and my family. There have been so many wonderful moments that have happened within our support staff office, that there are just too many to write something short about.. books should be written. Albert always had a great sense of humor. Often he would come up behind me while I was concentrating on something important, and would scare the crap out of me. Of course I did the same to him at times. Some of my fondest memories with him, were when I had guests, such as Raytheon Execs, the IG, or security or someone important, he would stand behind them inside his cubicle, while they were talking to me, and would make faces, and mocking gestures that only I could see, and I had to endure this torture until they left. He might be holding up a sign that said “Shut the F**K Up” or something. Afterwards, I would go to see Albert about what he was doing… who would be just laughing out loud by then. Once he took all the staplers in our office to the temporary tower at the Atl. Raceway, and forgot to bring them back. He had to fess up the next day… from then on it’s been “Ask Albert, he probably has it”.. Every morning he would play “Love is all you need” by the Beetles, as he sang it out loud. I remember once asking him about him taking risks, like mountain climbing and such, and he always told me to not worry about him and that he wasn’t worried. He said that he is fine and has lived a good full life. I will cherish my memories. I’ll truly miss you my dear friend. See you soon. Love, Christine
When Tippy was doing a Detail as a sup we worked most shifts together. I enjoyed hearing him talk about this wonderful lady he had met and was dating. He always lit up when talking about her and I remember his face with that huge smile. He married her, and I never doubted that he had found the person that could make him happier than anyone else. I saw Tippy last week, we caught up on life and again I saw that sparkle as he told me how he was looking forward to being a “house husband” for that wonderful lady. He was still filled with so much joy! There are funny stories I could tell, and Tippy gave us many to tell, but what I cherish most is he loved embracing life, he gave us more than we could ever ask for in a friend, and most important I cherish how deeply he loved his bride.
Albert was a man who we all loving would call BAABoo!! The adventure bug had bit him twice over. He was always traveling somewhere. When he met and married his beautiful wife Tanya the adventures continued to many lands far and wide. My greatest adventure that I had the privilege of sharing with Albert was a trip to hike the Inca trail in Peru. He rocked the trail with more miles than anyone of us could imagine. He shared one of his milestone birthdays while we were on this trip. He turned 50 and he made every second of it count. One of the nights we were at the hotel, I came into one of my friends rooms and came across Albert. Now normally this wouldn’t be so out of the ordinary but at this particular time Albert was wearing a wig, a dress and was getting his nails and make-up done. Ok, first of all…who in the world brings these things across the world to wear (Albert of course) Secondly…why in the heck was he dressed as such…well to play a joke on a friend. Needless to say he was dressing as a woman to have a little fun down at the bar ( to see who he can pick up, aka our friend). Needless to say, the friend figured it out pretty quick once he got a look at his hairy arms. Albert was the kind of guy that no matter how he went about sparking life or interest in others , he had the ability to bring energy, laughter, unique Halloween costumes (don’t even get me started there) and most of all love to any situation. I am forever grateful to have known him and a richer soul to have shared many adventures in life with him . <3 you BAAboo!!! T
I have known Tippy since my first day at the Atlanta Tracon October 1990. I have so many stories but I will just share a few.
Al was a guy that was always willing to help and was always positive. As we went through our initial training together at the Tracon we would often study together and support each other on our journey towards certification. Well I can remember the day so well it was a Friday afternoon we were about to take off for the weekend. We knew that we had our first graded departure problem on Monday and would spend most of that weekend studying like good trainees. Al came to me and had these beautiful flash cards with all the departure frequencies made up for me to use. He had made a copy for himself and a copy for me to use so that we could shine for our first problem. Well I used those cards religiously all weekend until Sunday night around 1000 when Al called me. It was unusual for him to call this late so I knew something was up. He said, ” Scott have you been studying?” “I said of course those cards really helped tremendously.” He then proceeded to tell me that all the frequencies on the cards were just the opposite of what they should have been to say the least the next day we both had a very hard time with the frequencies.
Al and I got certified just about the same time. We worked for Jim Hathcock. I think it was our first time working final together. Al was working south final, I was working the north final. We thought it was really busy but it really wasn’t, we were just both brand new. Well somehow we both went down together. Mr. Hathcock was trying to help but to no avail. So somehow with most of my airplanes in Als airspace and most of his airplanes in my airspace we turned on each others final until we both got relieved. Mr. Hathcock took us across the hall and told us we could never work final at the same time again for his heart could not handle it. We honored his request.
The reason Al loved NASCAR!!
I can remember one night driving home from the tower . It was Greg Campbell in his copper station wagon, Larry Overton, Al in his super van and myself driving the Honda with no air conditioner. For some reason Al started doing NASCAR maneuvers in his super van. Well that was all we needed to have a NASCAR race heading down 85 towards Peachtree City. Somehow we got Al on the outside as we approached the exit for home the copper station wagon, the Honda with no air and Larry O lined up like we were on the the speedway. We had a perfect 3 car block keeping Al headed towards Newnan as we all exited towards home Al continued the race by himself missing the exit. He was so happy for he thought he had won the race.
Then the New Years Day tradition.
For good luck Al always made the whole tracon eat collard greens and some kind of meat. He would come in on his days off make this delicacy for everyone. We ate it for many years until this tradition ended or we had all the luck we needed.
Al we are going to miss you my friend, you lived your life at 250 knots just the way you fed the final. You were one guy that that touched all our lives in so many ways. God bless you my friend.
You were always getting Us with that amazing smile. I love going to your house growing up and hanging out and having fun with les , Albert , John , palmer, mary and madie. But most of all you were cool to be around and had some funny and embarrassing stories about my dad. Tippy I love you and rest easy with mom mom
I’m not going to lie, he was one of the goofiest men I’ve ever met. He brought so many smiles to so many faces and always made new friends wherever he went. We are all so blessed to know him and remember the wonderful memories of him.
While taking diving lessons at Cubi Pt. Philippines we had to tread water for 15 min . Tippy kept spitting streams of water at my face and mouth that I got laughing so hard I failed the test. That was in 78 and he just reminded me of it about two weeks ago. Claiming to be a better swimmer and waterman than I was. Which he was! during our navigation dive he lost the flag we had to sneak to the surface to hunt it down he used so much air we had to buddy breath in to have the required air to pass the test.
If it is possible to be sad and happy at the same time, I am there. Sad to have lost a friend and happy that my friend is before the King of Kings! Last October Al and I traveled to Michigan to attend a men’s retreat at Camp Barakel. It was a time of respite; to get away and enjoy the beauty of the Michigan woods, the fellowship of other men, make new friends, and worship our Savior. Early Saturday morning we got up and rode a bus back into the woods with about 30 other men. One of the leaders, Lee, led us on a walk through the woods as the sun came up and illuminated the fine mist rising from the undergrowth. Lee read Scripture and poems about the beauty of creation and the provision of God’s grace. So many times before Al and I had cut up and joked around and laughed together, but this was a time of quietness and humbleness. I now smile and cry at the same time as I think back to that time at camp where I stood next to Al as he belted out in a loud voice the words to the hymn, The Solid Rock…
“My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness; No merit of my own I claim, But wholly lean on Jesus’ name.
On Christ, the solid Rock, I stand; all other ground is sinking sand; all other ground is sinking sand.
When darkness seems to hide His face, I rest on His unchanging grace. In every high and stormy gale, my anchor holds within the veil.
When He shall come with trumpet sound, O may I then in Him be found! Dressed in His righteousness alone, faultless to stand before the throne.”
Love ya Albert!
Until we meet again,
Paul
Seeing Albert walk into the TRACON was always bitter sweet. On one hand, you knew the BS and the banter was about to get real deep because Albert was always a laugh a minute. No matter what was going on, you just couldn’t help stopping what you were doing to joke around with him. He had an infectious personality like that. On the other hand, you knew he was about to give you a picture taker who was going to be a real pain.
Albert was such a wonderful person to be around and we will miss him dearly!
Oh Albert……..always my go to person when horsing around. From pranking everyone to flower bras and grass hula skirts, you would always be there with me partaking and laughing. I’ve never met another person that smiles and goofs off as much as I do until I met you. One of my all time favorite memories of you is the time you, myself, Shannon Bealles, and Jimmy Allerdice karaoked. All four of us were up there with our arms around each other singing “Friends in Low Places” at the top of our lungs. Looking out across the crowd and seeing people laughing and shaking their heads. The defining moment was afterward when we handed the microphones back to the DJ and the look of total disgust on his face as he snatched them from our hands. We all said thanks walking away, still laughing hysterically and high fiving each other. Those are the moments I will cherish. You were a good friend and awesome person. I’m the one that is privileged to have known such a wonderful carefree soul. Rest in peace my friend.
I have so much to say to you and I can’t begin to grasp the corrrect words. I miss you so dearly.
I carry a lot of weight and regret, I just wish I would have said I Love You one last time.
I can’t wait to join you and get back to the way things were.
Miss and Love you Dad.
Tippy is my “brother” from another mother! (Not that he needed another sister but I needed a brother.) We grew up together being neighbors on Steele Ave and Largo Way in South Daytona, FL – the Ensell’s, Morris’, Hanley’s, Malarney’s, Klem’s, McMenamy’s…Teri E and I were best friends in the neighborhood but Tippy and I acted like siblings because we were always being thrown together and having to go places together and not necessarily liking it! We went to school from Kindergarten through St. Paul’s to Father Lopez through 1974. It was never a dull moment with Tippy and you never knew what he was going to do next. I always knew though that Tip wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps as an Air Traffic Controller. I remember Big Al being surprised Tip had gone into his profession and I just laughed and said Tip had told me that was his dream when we were about 7 years old. How awesome (and a bit scary) that Tippy followed his dream and lived it!
Turns out, Tippy and I ended up being best friends at heart. His fabulous smile always melted my heart whenever I saw him and we could talk about things no one else understood (which is a good thing). I just recently spent quality time with Tip at our 40th class reunion and when he saw me he gave me a HUGE hug…you know, the kind he could give where he just enveloped you in his embrace and held on tight…it was like coming home and my heart smiled. Only this time, he held on an extra minute longer than normal. The tears start when I think about it but I am so glad I had that extra minute in his embrace that I can hold on to forever. We always thought we would grow old together and have many more years and laughs to share…it won’t be the same without you, Tip but I am so glad God gave you to us for the time that He did. Praise the Lord! If you listen hard enough, you can hear laughter from Heaven…must be Tippy and Betty keeping them entertained!
Patty
What a great message. Brought tears to my eyes.
Scott
I am at a loss for words on what Albert meant to me.
He was there for me during one of the darkest times in my life going so far as to accompany me to the hospital and staying with me for hours while the drs and nurses attended to me.
I have many humorous stories but my favorite still involves the Secret Service. Albert was the SS liaison when the President was in A80 airspace, monitoring the flight with a member of the Presidents detail. I once challenged Albert, and offered to buy him lunch, if he would tackle the SS guy (all said in jest). There was a long pause, contemplation, and was then asked where we would go to lunch.
You my friend will be sorely missed, but rest assured he is in a better place with the King of Kings.
God bless
I am one of the FAA operations inspectors who tried to negotiate with Albert and Jim for airspace for the airshows, parachute demonstrations, and flybys. Now making calls to controllers while they are working is always fun. I call any controller, and I am greeted with a “yeh” or a “yep” followed by a pause within which I better be able to cram two minutes of information into 10 seconds, or I’ll be in trouble. I quickly learned to speak quicker and more succinct and Al learned to give me five more seconds. He was very kind, and I always left our conversations feeling good.
While I was asking a question of Walter Scott a couple of weeks ago, he yelled out to Al what I was asking. I have been in the Region for over a year and half now, and I don’t get to interact with the team anymore. I was able to relay through Walter, “Say hi from me, and please let him know I miss working with him.” Wow! I am glad I was able to do that. I hope it brought a smile to his face.
I’ll miss my friend on the other side of the phone.
Is there one person on this earth that would come paint your house and not charge you a dime? Albert painted our house and it took him about a week. After day two I think he brought Palmer over with him, (after asking permission), and our two boys played together outside while Albert painted.
When task was completed I tried in vain to pay him what I thought was reasonable. Albert would have nothing to do with it. He even caught me trying to hide the money in his van.
“Shealy Bob” he said, “That’s what friends are for.”
I’m still going to pay you back my friend, just as soon as I can join you.
I LOVE YOU ALBERT!!!
I had the pleasure of meeting Albert when he began working as a staffer at A80, and I in the regional office. My first impression was – “what a goofball!” I mean that in a good way. Of course, goofballs are my favorite kind of people, and so Albert, fit right in. I had the pleasure of not only working with him on many issues, but since I was living right across the street from the Allerdices (until recently as they have moved up), I often ran into him as he frequented Jimmy and Colleen’s place. One of my first impressions of Albert was a 4th of July some years ago. For some reason, he found it necessary to come to the fireworks in PTC on a bicycle, and to boot, he had the most bright neon colored, tie died, t-shirt on, and was basically entertaining the crowds. He truly had so much love in his heart for everyone, he exuded happiness every time I saw him. I admired his open affection for his children, he spoke of them often and his love and admiration for them was evident. I often ran into him and his kids at school events, etc., and there he was, all smiles, all the time. When he found the love of his life, Tanya, he asked if I would be the DJ at his wedding reception, as I had been doing a little DJ/KJing. He tried to pay me, but I told him it was my gift, but of course, since he wasn’t paying, he couldn’t complain. So, at the reception/PARTY, when he was clearly disappointed that I not only did not have the “Chicken Dance Song”, but I didn’t even know what it was, he held back his obvious Horrific shock and disappointment, and of course, went looking through the crowd to find said song. It wasn’t too long before Albert with Chicken Dance song in hand, came running up to get me to play his selection. I had the honor of playing the Chicken Dance Song and yes, finally, watching and understanding, what, exactly, the chicken dance was. I will never forget who enlightened me! Albert had a way of making his friends feel like we were very special. He packed so much living into his life, all be it short, it was very full. I will remember Albert the sweet goofball and smile and I might even—–do the Chicken Dance.
It is only coincidence that Kristi’s comment is right above mine and that we share an Albert story. I wrote mine in Word and was about to paste it in when I noticed. Like I say in my already written memories, not a coincidence.
____________________
Albert, you were a brightener of days in so many ways. Whether it was swinging my door open, crossing paths in the lobby, or a phone call, I always smiled when I heard him call me Lisa Lisa, like he did one last time a few weeks ago.
When I got to the TRACON in 2003, it didn’t take long for word to get out that I was extensively involved in Air Traffic Pay. Albert’s questions were a little more involved than most and we bonded over similar personal challenges. I knew he had countless friends, but he had an endless capacity for more.
In 2004, I called him my good luck charm after we watched the Red Sox win game one of the World Series and joked that I needed him to watch the rest of the games with me. He did, and the Sox broke an 86 year curse.
About nine years ago, I was playing with the community band in Peachtree City’s annual July 4th concert. We were warming up in on the plaza in front of City Hall and out of nowhere, a tipsy Tippy rode up to the front of the band on his bike, in one of the brightest shirts I’d ever seen. “Lisa Lisa, what’s going on?” A few of my friends didn’t believe he was an air traffic controller, but they were all amused.
The calls from 6130 were always a welcome break from my regular work. “Lisa Lisa….. What do you know about Excel? I think I broke Lotus Notes. How do I do something in Word?” Usually I’d try to help over the phone for a few minutes, but I’d almost always end the call with, “I’ll be right there.” The day he asked me what I knew about iTunes and Apple IDs, I knew I had a challenge. He showed me an iPod and explained that he forgot his ID or password and he wanted to put music on it before an overseas trip – the next day. I knew there was no way he’d remember what I told him, so I offered to take the iPod home and load it with completely random music. I told him I wouldn’t be able to do it until after midnight and I needed to be near his condo at six the next morning, so he’d have to trust me. He was excited when I delivered it to his sidewalk the next morning. When he got home, he told me about hearing specific songs (Led Zeppelin in a church?!) or discovering a new artist I thought he’d like. To me, it was a small favor for a friend, but he thanked me as if I’d given him an extravagant gift.
I can’t be there this weekend due to previous commitments in Virginia – including staying with a cat named Tippy and seeing some friends from my Air Traffic pay days. I think it’s more than coincidence. AE, LL will always love and miss you.
*not only coincidence,….allergies in my eyes when I got ready to post
“My brother from another mother” is the greeting I always received from Albert. We shared many adventures across the world and life was always better when he was around. I am sad to see him go but he is traveling a new adventure ahead of us. I am sure we will see him one day and he will greet me like he always did and share a story or two of what I have missed. Until then my friend!
I can’t say much right now, I’m still at a loss but i wanna contribute to this so heres my TippyTale.
Last summer I called my dad and said “hey dad, I need to talk to you, can you please make some time?”. He asked me for my next day off and I told him.
So my dad shows up to pick me up at 7 in the morning tells me to get in the drivers seat and says, “hey your driving me to the tower in Valdosta, I need to do some certifications down there today”, thanks dad, I’m thinking. well along the way down there was a lot of coffee and of course my dad napping.
I woke dad up halfway down and said “dad, this kenny chesney crap is putting me to sleep, can you please put on some rock or something more upbeat?” ……….On comes the Mellisa Ethridge….Thanks Dad.
My dad hated driving, but we did get to talk that day. We didn’t always get along but my dad has wisdom and knowledge beyond his years and loved to share it and always stayed teachable. I love him so much, thank you for putting this together guys!
– Little Al
The Game
As mentioned in previous “tippytales”, Tip (Big Al as I called him) loved sports . He took us to many many ball games and races over the years. Even with working two jobs most of his life, he managed to find time to coach a soccer or basketball team for one of us kids.
I remember playing football for Booth Middle School in 7th grade. Big Al was not able coach so instead he joined the Booster and became the announcer for our home games. Every time I would get a tackle or a good hit he would scream in the microphone like we had just won the Super Bowl! He would repeat my name over and over and say “that will make Sports Center folks”.
Because Big Al was so involved with sports he was a fierce competitor. He would often challenge friends and family daily to see who was the fastest or who could hold their breath the longest under water. For some odd reason and my dismay he won most of the challenges….
Big Al took my best friend Max and I down to Daytona for Spring Break one year when I was in Middle School. We stayed at Poppie and Mom Moms. March Madness was in the air and we loved basketball. A challenge was made in Poppie’s living room. Big Al told Max and I he could beat us on the basketball court anytime anywhere. Let the trash talking begin!!
After thirty minutes of fueling the fire I knew what was about to take place. Max told Big Al lets head to the nearest basketball court and settle this. One problem though, Big Al needed a team mate. Without hesitation Big Al grabbed Poppie and said “lets school these boys Dad”.
We all gear up and head over to the nearest basketball court. The sun was starting set in Ormond and Max and I knew victory was ours this night. Big Al goes over the black top rules and we agreed to play to ten, every bucket was one point. I grab my buddy Max and told him we have to be gentle. Mom Mom would be pissed if one of the “old guys” gets hurt.
We gave them the ball first. Big Al tossed it to Poppie who then transformed into Dennis Rodman, drove to basket and scored on us. I then told Max quietly, oh shit. Big Al then transformed into Larry Bird and was hitting shots all over the court! We proceeded to get our asses handed to us for the next thirty minutes. They not only destroyed us in one game but gave us another chance and whooped our behinds a second game. In thirty minutes of play, Big Al and Poppie missed only one shot!!
After the beatdown Max and I were doing the walk of shame back to the car. Our pride was bruised and so were my ribs from Poppies (Dennis Rodman) elbows. Max lifted his head up and asked me ” did that just happen”? I looked up and replied, unfortunately yes and we will never hear the end of it. Big Al caught up with us and had his famous grin on his face. He wrapped his giant arms around Max and I and said “Schools out boys, enjoy the rest of your Spring Break”.
Brother Man, I miss you so damn much. I know what you would want me to do and I will try to make you proud. Thank you for all the tools you gave me over the years and for making me the man I am today. You were the hardest worker I have ever known. I will miss our talks as well as your facebook updates that would always make me laugh. Stay thirsty my Friend. Love you much Poppa Bear!
Absolutely love this. Knowing Les and Big Al, reading it, I could totally see the whole story play out in my head. I love you so much Big Al. I was always the most excited when we had dinners with you and Tanya, the bbq last summer, the maiden voyage to the air show, fourth of July. Everything. Love and miss you more than words can express. Gone too soon. Love you always and forever in my heart.
When we visited Baboo he always made it fun to stay at his house! He took us out on trails, showed us animal eggs, and gave us as much love as he could before we left. I will miss him.
On Tippy’s 50th birthday, at his pool party, he boldly announced to all his guests that none of his sons could ever beat him in a swimming race. I asked him if that included his Son-In-Laws, and he said yes. Soon after, we took to the pool as 32 vs 50. I reached the finish a whole body length ahead of Tippy. He tried to make excuses for his loss, but conceded to my victory. He of course said that we would have to have a rematch one day.
On July 4, 2014, I asked him if he was ready for the rematch. He said that he wanted to wait until he was 60, so he could say the I was beat by a 60 year old. Classic Tippy. I hope for that rematch one day in Heaven. I will miss you!
Before I tell my tale, I have to say that Albert always made me smile. Albert loved life and fun and family and friends. Whenever we saw each other, I always got a hug. There’s nothing like an Albert hug.
We have to go back to Madi’s birth for this story. Susa had just come home from the hospital and was on strict bed rest. She and Albert had a house full of kids and a newborn, so I made them a lasagna with all the sides. Albert answered the door holding the baby. He looked at the lasagna, then he looked at me, took the food from Bobby and handed me the baby. We didn’t see Albert again for two hours.
Bless you, Albert, and God love you. You will ALWAYS be one of my favorites.
I met Al in 2004. Right after Hurricane Ivan whacked us here in Pensacola. Several of us had severe damage to our homes, all of us had at least some. Many of us were in the old TRACON that night when the roof blew off. Long story short, we were all kind of traumatized, and our facility was out of service for the foreseeable future. Al showed up a couple of days after the storm to help us put together a workable operation, and to certify us radar controllers in the tower. He was a God-send, with just the right mix of humor and compassion to lift us up at a dark time. I never forgot him, and appreciate what he did for us to this day.
Albert was an amazing man who was full of adventure and fun! He was always happy and made you feel like you mattered. So many memories that make me smile . Like when he went in my hot tub with his clothes on at my Christmas Party and tried to act like nothing happened. Peru where I did his hair (fixed his wig) and make-up so he could prank his roommate by hitting on him at the bar. Oh and and all the backpacking trips. All of us sleeping in our car outside the black mountain crest trail gate as the wind howled and then ending the trip with the van practically catching on fire. The last one we did together required him needing knee surgery afterwards but man he finished like a champ. The Halloween costumes were always priceless and amusing. You were a hot cheerleader. Until another adventure my friend. You will be missed but never forgotten.
Well what can I say about Al – well to know him is to love him. I first met Al at Jax Tower in 1990 and he immediately nicknamed me “Money Penny”. Every time is saw Al he would always refer to as Money Penny. We moved away from Jacksonville and 2005, A80 had a get together and I ran into Al and he immediately referred to me as Money Penny and brought a smile to my face.
One memory of Al that I will never forget is when we were working at JAX TWR , Al was in QA Dept and it was his bosses birthday. So Al and one of his buddies decided to come in early and set this blow up doll at his bosses desk with an empt beer bottle in its hand. When Dick (Al’s boss) opened the office door and saw that blow doll with beer in hand, he could not help but laugh and grin about it. Dick immediately tried to wipe the laugh from his face and with a stern voice told Al and his buddy to remove the blow up doll and apologize to the ladies in the office because Dick was afraid of a sexual harassment complaint. So Al hung his head walked in my office with his mischievous grin said I am sorry for my actions by bringing in this blow up doll and immediately turned away because he could not contain his laughter any longer. Al will be missed but his laughter will remain in our hearts forever.
I did not know Tippy very well but I will always remember the day that I met him… Hope and I went to Heather and Keith’s house to meet Tippy and Tanya.
As we walked through the door to go inside I thought to myself, ” forget Tippy, there is Barry Bostwick from Spin City… I wonder if I can get his autograph”
Tippy and I at PJ’s a Daytona rock and roll bar at the time.Dark ,Drunk, an Loud He is leaning against a post in the middle of the table area next to the dance floor with me next to him as a song is coming to an end he starts on about a 20 second expulsion of noxious gasses that the fumes are only exceeded by the decibels of the flatulence. A pretty young thing sitting at the table behind him screams in horror and accuses him of gross behavior. He turns in his best Cary Grant dialect and says ” Well does this mean the next dance is out of the question” I had to run to the loo as not to soil myself. He was the the man that made the jokes real life experiences.
There was a certain amount of genius that you discovered about the layers of my brother-in-law……….it took time and exposure to him to totally understand what happens when Tippy was in the house, but you were always a better person after you spent time with him….he forced you in a unique way.
At first you never understood him, then you learned to appreciate him, and then you grew to respect him, and even envy him as he could and would make the common into something special.
I had come to realize that he lived his life and days in the moment without regrets. If we allow Tippy to continue to influence us, we all would take less for granted and live life as if today could be our last day.
Last week I talked at length with Tippy on his drive to Perry Florida. We solved my fantasy racing issues so that I could change my drivers and I threatened to expose him as a commissioner blocking by choices so that I could not outrun him as we joked and bantered back and forth. We talked about work, JC, the family, his children, his faith, where he and Tanya were attending church, his pilgrimage in his faith and his take on church and religion.
Tippy had some things figured out with certainty, he understood and reminded me and all of us of a truth that we should carry into the weekend at his memorial service……..”Brother Man, if I only had time at church to do one thing it would not be: the music, the business of church, the rules and guidelines, even though those are very important to me……….It’s the word, the sermon, the bible study, it’s hearing from God, opening his word and receiving direction from him and his message to you, that’s what is most important.”
Tippy, I will miss you but your touch on my life will be forever………I cleared my voicemail yesterday, and had a message on my phone from Tippy when he called last week, “Tag you’re it, call me.” It’s hard not want to pick up the phone and call to hear your voice again but I know you are watching and waiting on us……………
Al helped me paint my new house…22 years ago. He would come over to the house and promptly raid my cupboard for cookies. I would find him setting on my stairs with my 3 kids handing them cookie after cookie. Of course the kids loved him but I was always out of cookies.
On the way out of my driveway he would try to set the world speed record. He had an old Chevy van with way too many miles on it. I would see rooster tails of red clay flying as he took the first curve and then hear the roar down the rest of the last tenth mile. One day he announced that he had reached 65 mph on my driveway. that record held for nearly 15 years. What a wild man. Miss you “Stud”.
My memories of Tippy… what a wonderful friend he was to my brother Knick. I loved seeing the two of them together, telling stories, laughing and you could tell they were as close as any brothers could be. Tippy was always kind and fun to be around. Our mother adored him and he would always make her feel very special. When Knick was sick.. the entire Ensell family was there for him and for our family. A very special bond between the Ensell & Knickerbocker family. Tippy will be missed so much by his family and his “adopted” family as well.
I have known Tippy for about 50 years and have only known him as “Tippy”. He got me my first job at a restaurant in Daytona as a dishwasher. He was the busboy. So one time he brings in this large bone and gets the best knife in the place and starts acting like a samara warrior. He tries to chop the bone in half and takes a big chunk out of the knife when the boss walks in. I thought he was going to get fired but somehow he said the right thing and everything was forgiven.
I remember the family had a blue VW bus and everyone could fit. Both our families drove to Tampa to Busch Gardens and we talked on walkie talkies the whole way over. No wonder he was an ATC.
Another time while he was in Jax I went over to his house to watch Fleetwood Mac on an HBO concert. His place was close to Jax liquors and of course he had all the drinks you could possibly want. We probably drank Old Milwaukee that night! He had the biggest speakers I had ever seen and they were blasting Stevie Nicks. I thought, man this guys sure knows how to have fun.
He always did the things that you wished you had thought of but were afraid to do.
It seems like we are still in our 20’s but life moves fast. I will always have the memories of the good times at St. Pauls and Father Lopez. Godspeed Tippy!
Al was my buddy from the first time I met him back in 1991. He will always be my buddy even though he may now be in a better place. Always entertaining; both at work and at play.
Many years ago we had decided to go see The Allman Brothers Band at the old Lakewood Amphitheater. After the concert, we somehow got lost in other places and finally arrived at my house at about 2:30 in the morning.
Al’s house was another 25 minutes away and we both were due for the morning shift at ATL. I told Al to call the wife and just stay at my place and save himself an hour’s sleep.
The phone conversation went as follows:
Al: Hey baby, whatcha doing? (Much laughter in the background as what do you think she was doing at 2:30 in the morning?)
Al: Oh……….I was thinking, I’m at Campbell’s and figured I’d just stay……..Oh, OK, I’ll be home in a few minutes.
Al, loved his family and would do anything for them.
Miss ya buddy. You can stay at my place anytime!
Tip and I served together as Navy air controllers at our first duty station, NPTR El Centro. Not only did we work the same shift initially, we were barracks roomates. To those that have posted before me, imagine these two rookies in their young 20’s living life and having a ball. The memories I have are hilariously endless. Each day was an adventure of some sort… looking back, all of them priceless.
Then, as things go, Tip was transfered to Cubi Point at the end of his 2 year tour. Shortly after, I was transfered to the USS Constellation. Guess where we went… right, the Phillipines. Whenever we were in port Tip opened a spare bedroom for me at his house on Kahle Beach. What a collection of memories… seems like yesterday.
A close mutual friend from Seattle contacted me early last Sunday and let me know what had happened the day before. The news took my breath away. A week later, reading these posts, I realize that you each knew the same essence of Tippy, Al, Babu, or any of the collection of names we each had for him. For me, that is both a healing and confirming thing. And knowing that he had accepted faith in our Lord and Savior leaves me confident that he is in a good place… just arriving ahead of us.
God Bless you, Tip… thank you for the gift of your friendship. Till we meet again…
Marc
I first met Al in the 1980’s when I worked with his father in Daytona Beach and Al came to the facility for a visit. His father was so proud of him. In 1991 we started working together for ten years which included those years Al ran around PTC with his pressure washer. He was always doing something.
We didn’t work together too much due to the nature of shift work and I guess I really didn’t get to know Al as well as others did, which is a good thing right now, because I’m sure I would hurt that much more. So long Brother Man.
Tomorrow morning we say goodbye to a friend. I’m not looking forward to it one bit.
Tomorrow afternoon we’ll make an attempt to Honor him for a afternoon cookout at the Twiggs Corner Pool from 4-7pm. Albert was going to hold this cook out one week ago, the day after he went to be with the Lord. His last email to me said, “Send a message to the community, Weather Permitting we’ll have hot dogs, chips, drinks and Smiles” 3:24am Saturday August 9th.
Tomorrow afternoon at 4pm, we’ll make our best effort to do just that. We’ll meet at the Twiggs Corner Pool to have Hot Dogs, Chips, Drinks, a few tears I’m sure, and Smiles. Just the way he wanted it.
In typical Albert fashion, All Are Welcome. There will be no strangers. Feel free to text me for details at 678-571-8930.
Rest in Peace Brotherman. You will be missed but not forgotten.
Albert loved to park right next to me in the parking lot, many times wedging me in so I had to get in from the passenger side. I always knew when he was up to something, because he would say ‘sorry about your car ken’ with a smile. He always made me smile,and brought a sense of humor to work that made my day much easier. I’ll miss him, and will pray for him and his family.
A fond memory that best explains my Dad:
When I was around 11 or 12, my dad took me out swimming. We were just a few hundred yards north of the Matanzas Inlet on the East coast of Florida. He pointed out that there was a rip-tide current and thought it would be a great “opportunity” to teach me how to navigate out of one. Reluctantly, I walked out into the water under my Dad’s close and confident supervision. I quickly started to feel the force and pull of the water. Although I was listening to my dad’s instructions while we were on the beach and to his coaching while in the water the distance between us grew. I started to panic. After giving a not-so-calm yell for help to my dad, who was seemingly a long distance away, he was suddenly by my side. I don’t know how far the distance was between us in the water but he covered it in what seem like seconds. He came to my side and carried me to the safe, ankle depth water of the beach.
This story makes me smile and think back about my dad and how even in the face of danger he was cool and calm. The distance between us seemed too far, but it wasn’t. He was at my side when I needed him and bringing me to safety in the blink of an eye. This makes me think of how God’s love is the exact same way.
I wish I could have shared in that story with my dad again and told him what that time meant to me. I miss him so much and wish that there was more time with him here on earth. I love you dad.
I married Tippy’s aunt Joni in September 29th 1962. I have been blessed to be a part of the Ensell Family for over 51 years. We have so many great family memories together over all these years. As i have been reading “Tippy’s Tales” it’s made me Laugh and Cry. Mostly it’s been a learning experience into the life of my nephew from his family,friends and co-workers. And who better to share their stories of “Tippy” then all these Fine People. I am so Proud to know how “Great A Man Of Good Character Tippy Turned Out To Be”. But when you think of the Bloodline he got from ”Poppie and MomMom” it makes you Know Why.”God Bless Tippy and His Family Forever”,uncle Bob
Our brother
He was larger than life with limitless energy
No matter what was suggested, he was “all in”
From enjoying the sunsets off the coasts of San Diego,
climbing mountains around the world,
low country boils,
telling tales around a fire,
breathing the salt air of any beach,
enjoying music, even Hall and Oates,
to his latest drink invention.
For us … His younger siblings he simply walked on water.
His duty as the eldest member of this sibling team was to “toughen us up for the outside world”.
A duty he took seriously.
His torture tactics included, foot chases through sliding glass doors,
Massive amounts of heart compressions,
Arm punches,
Dares of tree climbing out on weak limbs,
Last tagging on departure,
Water torture by balloons,
Smothering by silly string,
Pin downs until we screamed uncle,
Burning by Zippo lighter,
To Stealing the last bites of your dinner.
He did all this with an uncanny ability to evoke promises not to wake up our father so he could escape punishment.
As the eldest he was also our protector and our adviser
We are unsure of when he slept or when he worked because he was so busy playing jokes, plotting his next adventure and all the while lending an ear for your troubles and trying to solve problems with you.
He inspired us with his “it’s all good” attitude,
His unconditional love and his responsible immaturity.
We were blessed with many memories growing up like
Piling in the Volkswagen van for summer trips to meet cousins in Wildwood
Midnight hunts for frogs
Training for the family Olympics which sometimes resulted in loss of power to the area
And serenading the neighborhood on various holiday get togethers.
We take from his life a lesson to live by:
Love with everything that you have
He loved his life!
He loved his wife.
He loved his family
He loved his many friends
As He often stated that “friends were the family you choose”
He had the enormous capacity to except love in all forms and the ability to receive that love whether you knew you were giving that love or not.
We will miss you, our friend, our protector, our adviser, our brother….
And when we see you again
We will laugh!
Hello many of you know me as Jim or Knick Knickerbocker to be up here and doing this is beyond hard to be asked to do it is beyond an honor .We met in 77 in the control tower at NAS Cubi pt.Philippines.he a gangly 21 year old wet behind the ears.Me a “wizened”27 year old with three major facilities under my belt. We shared a Florida connection from my duty stations in the Jacksonville area. Later we hung out and laughed together. Taking diving and sailing lessons together.the first time I went to his house in the PI there was a large poster sized picture on the wall most guys had posters of Fara Fawcet, sports figures or cars and motorcycles hanging in their rooms, this was of an older man in a John boat or aluminum skiff. I asked who that was he proudly exclaimed” that’s my best friend in the whole world, that’s my father” I was moved by his dedication, loyalty and love for his family. Those qualities extended to his friends .A true jester ,man of mischief, and mirth, he made everyone around him better and happier. Thankfully for us he never grew up, a true life Peter Pan and the world was his Never Never land.
For a long time I have proclaimed that fun is the best thing to have , I found much of that fun from Albert Edward Ensell IV, aka Tippy,orAE,orEddy Munster , or Baboo.
Tippy ,I looked to you and found my faith in fellow man, I looked to you and found the joy of everlasting youth, I looked to you and found humor in the unknown, I looked to you and found my innocence ,I looked to you for trust, I looked to you for your thoughts of friendship, I looked to you to find a reason to carry on, I will look for you in every person I see. I will find you everywhere ,and miss you until we meet again.”BROTHER MAN”
Happy 58th birthday Daddy! Every year I would ask you what you wanted and you would say “world peace.” I’m going to need some more time on that one, but what I can give you is all my love and how much I miss you. I know exactly where you are for this birthday so tell Jesus, Mommom, and Steve Irwin I said hi!
Once in a lifetime, you meet someone like my dad. A gray-haired man who is a perfect mix of goofy, friendly, and outgoing. A follower of Christ and a friend to everyone he met. He looked at each day as an opportunity to work hard and get stuff done. But he never ceased to make time for a bottle of wine and ESPN. He admired the earth and was outside more than inside. From Daytona Beach to the Georgian mountains, he loved God’s creations. One thing that was always in his heart was his intriguing passion for aviation. He loved Sun n Fun, Atlanta ‘proach, and his little Cessna. As much as I will miss him, I have begun to see his mark on the people around him too. I think of my dad when I look at my brother Albert, and not just because they have the same name. I look into Al’s eyes and see my dad’s eyes too. I see my dad and Palmer. Palm, like my father, is one of the hardest working people I know. I also see my dad when I see my sister Mary. I see her ability of making other people smile and laugh, just like daddy. It’s important for all of us to cherish the memories we shared with him, because we are also blessed to know him. Even though he isn’t here, he will live on through our precious memories and will never stop loving us.
I’m so glad that Tanya and Tippy made a trip to Brigantine after the wedding and we were able to enjoy photographs of the honeymoon, discuss retirement plans and see photos of the house etc. We had an enjoyable family dinner w/wine and cocktails. Too brief but wonderful.
Upon returning to work after the news of Tippy and NOT being able to get to Atlanta, my students were working on a “Poetry Workshop” and I was just in time for the teachers’ workshop. So the instructor asked: Where did your name come from? Why were you given that name? If you could place a name anywhere, where would you put it? What are some placement adjectives you would use?
So Tippy, and family….this is for all of us!
I’ve seen your name; recently a lot
I envision your name on Tanya’s heart
I hear your name longed for by your mother’s lips
I whisper your name to the Lord in prayer
I string your name to family
I connect your name to Brother Kurt
I embed your name to sisters’ lives
I comfort your name in arms around your Pop
I cherish your name for kindred’s many
I imprint your name on the family tree
I scream your name in loss and desire
I repeat your name in many a story
I wrap your name around many to comfort
I tie your name to adventure and exploration
I embrace your name like a soft fluffy throw
I imagine your name in white puffy clouds
I elongate your name along your grin
I carve your name through grains of sand
I’ll research your name through Legacy®
I’ll honor your name, Always.
Albert Tippy Ensell IV