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Lowell Bachman Obituary
Lowell M. Bachman, 73, of Kenilworth, passed away Feb. 26, 2008, beloved husband of Doris, nee Carr; loving father of Chris and Curt Bachman; dearest brother of Sally (Richard) Thomas; fond uncle of many; and friend to countless. Former 82nd Airborne Trooper, Pathfinder and Green Beret, Mr. Bachman founded Para-Gear Equipment Company in 1960. In addition to enjoying skydiving himself, he served as a skydiving judge for many years. Mr. Bachman's contribution to skydiving can best be characterized as a quiet but important figure who stood behind the front men. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the National Skydiving Museum, 5401 Southpoint Centre Blvd., Fredericksburg, VA 22407. Ar-rangements by Wm. H. Scott Funeral Home, 847-251-8200.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Lowell Bachman
Sponsored by Para-Gear Equipment Company Inc.
Monna Blue
December 19, 2023
I miss him every day!
Allan Gramando
February 22, 2022
A true leader in the skydiving world. Beloved by everyone. He will always be missed. I will always remember Lowell coming to Fairbanks, Alaska to judge our meet in 1971.
fay barber murphy
February 22, 2020
boy time has gone bye we still have the momories of you and all ways will.
the photos say it all
fay murphy /barber
February 23, 2019
when i first met you i throught what a very pleasant person who would help any body it was a pleasuer to have known uou and your family and may curt and chris grow up to be like you.may you walk in gods kingdom with ken barber.we here in new zealand will allways remember you .fay & kevin norman rip lowell
Shlomo Pearl
February 22, 2019
Lowel was one of the best persons I ever met. Kind, always care and happy to assist. It was my honor to know him and his wonderful family for so many years. Last time we met was at PIA Sym. in Barcelona Spain few days before he passed away so young. R.I.P dear friend. Shlomo
Allan Gramando
February 22, 2019
I always remember you coming to Fairbanks, Alaska in late 72 to be Chief Judge at our parachute meet. Man was it cold.
ALaska Meet 1972 FWSC
March 8, 2010
Lowell M. Bachman
February 25, 2009
Christmas with the Para-Gear Family
February 4, 2009
Lowell looking down at the target, just before amazing everyone, including himself, by making a DC. It was a beautiful approach, just 500 ft too high so he sorta laughed as he flew over the target - hooked, and swept back in for the DC. - Tom Schapanski
February 4, 2009
Otis the Para-Gear dog and Lowell
February 3, 2009
Lowell has help at The Command Center
February 3, 2009
Lowell and the Troops (1986)
February 3, 2009
Lowell at PIA Symposium
February 3, 2009
Lowell and fellow jumpers
February 3, 2009
Lowell M Bachman
February 3, 2009
February 3, 2009
Lowell with his Para-Gear Family
January 27, 2009
Lowell with sons Curt and Chris
January 27, 2009
January 27, 2009
January 27, 2009
Lowell and Pete celebrating Christmas
January 27, 2009
The Chief
January 27, 2009
Lowell plowing February 2008
January 27, 2009
Lowell plowing Bachman Blvd, a good time to Think!
January 27, 2009
Dori and Lowell with gifts from The Troops
January 27, 2009
Lowell with good luck banner from one of the many faithful customers
January 27, 2009
Lowell, Curt, Paul, Jay, Chris, Monna, Dori, and Moe
January 27, 2009
Lowell with Otis
January 27, 2009
Dori and Lowell
January 27, 2009
Lowell and his Troops
January 27, 2009
Lowell and Dori at the Parachute Industry Symposium banquet
January 27, 2009
Lowell and Lou Sanborn
January 27, 2009
Lowell taking time to relax during a busy day
January 27, 2009
Lowell and Dori
January 27, 2009
Lowell and Lenny Potts, good friends
January 16, 2009
Para-Gear Storefront
July 24, 2008
Dick Paoliello
July 24, 2008
Dori,
I just now heard of Lowell's untimely passing. I am not as close to the parachuting community as I once was, but still wanted to add my condolences. I admired Lowell greatly as a individual, and I tried to emulate him as a businessman. On a visit to Chicago, both you and Lowell welcomed me into your home and treated me not as a business competitor, but as a honored guest. Not only was Lowell gracious and hospitable as a host, but he was also willing to share his business knowledge and experiences as well. I will never forget that visit, and I benefited greatly from his advise. As I recall, Kurt wasn't much more than a toddler at the time, and Chris must have just been too quiet for me to remember. I found several pictures I will try to include here, and will mail them also. One picture is of Lowell " in the gravel " judging a meet here in Xenia, and another of what I think is the original ParaGear storefront. Love to all, and God Bless!
Rick Nordskog
May 14, 2008
Dori, Chris & Curt,
So sorry for your loss. Lowell was one of the few clients I honestly looked forward to hearing from & working for, the guy was a jack of all trades it seemed & wanted to help out fixing problems,...I will miss him very much. And I can echo that sentiment for my late father because I know he considered Lowell a friend as well as a customer. from my family to yours, Rick Nordskog, Monarch Alarm.
Nancy Gruttman-Tyler
April 7, 2008
Dori, Chris & Curt,
Lowell was such a wonderful and caring man, I know that your many loving memories will keep him in your hearts forever.
Jim Vallender
March 28, 2008
I'm deeply saddened by Lowell's passing. He was a great influence to me when I was active in our sport 1965-80. I only wish I had known him better personally. Our wonderful sport will be forever greatful for his contribution. My condolences to the family.
Al Krueger
March 28, 2008
The sad passing of a true gentleman of the sport. Always behind the scenes. Always supportive in so many facets of our favorite activity. So giving of his time for the competitor, USPA and PIA. What a pleasure to have known him. Our thoughts and prayers are with Lowell's family during this difficult time.
James miglore
March 28, 2008
My Deepest Sympathy
Ron Moyers
March 26, 2008
Dori,Chris and Curt,
My deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family. I had the honor of working for Para-Gear for 9 years and as I was a member of the Para Gear family, I had been treated as a member of your own family. Lowell had the unique ability and heart to treat people with respect and helped them find self dignity. I will always remember Lowell as a man with an unmatched work ethic, and also he could enjoy a hearty laugh with his friends even at his own expense. I am truly thankful I knew Lowell as a friend.
ALL THE WAY SIR!!!
Paul Gommers jr
March 26, 2008
Dear Dorri, Curt and Cris.
Me sympathies go out to you all. Because of problems I wasn’t at the symposium at Barcelona. I was looking forward to celebrate Curt’s Birthday and finally meet the Dorri where Bram and Lowell where talking about and to check with Lowell if all the stories of Bram where real. Lowell, the most generous and unselfish man I have met in the Parachuting Community. Always making the difficult discussion easy. Have a good party and make it the way he was, in me memory’s, full of fun and laughter, and we will only have good memories in our hearts. I wish you all, all the strength and courage.
Best regards,
Paul Gommers jr
Hillary (Garard) Jackson
March 25, 2008
Dearest Bachmans,
I am so very sorry to hear of your sad news. You have been such a wonderful family to me and my family. Dori & Lowell obviously had an abundance of love that kept and will continue to keep your family strong and fabulous. You are in my thoughts and prayers. May you be gaining peace and acceptance day by day. You are loved.
Rudy THYS
March 21, 2008
Dear Doris, Chris and Curt
At the symposium in Barcelona, Lowell helped me out with a question on parachute fabric, again.
As always no favour asked in return, just to help out a friend.
That's how I will remember Lowell, as a friend, a gentleman and a gentle man.
Have a good trip home Lowell, I am honored that I was allowed to call you my friend.
Lowell at Para-Gear asks Otis and Dave, "Do you want a treat from me?" The answer was a resounding "ARF!" as usual!
March 21, 2008
Jean & Jim McClung
March 16, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of everyone's friend, Lowell Bachman. His legacy, devotion to his family and our country, will continue in all our minds forever. Always enjoyed his company at the Bordeaux dinners
Brittany Bania
March 11, 2008
Mrs. Bachman, Chris and Curt,
We are so sorry to hear your sad news. We wish you peace and strength. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Love, Brittany (Garard) and JP Bania
PATRICK ELBAZ
March 10, 2008
Have just learnt this sad short News and my thoughts are with you.
We had met Lowell, Domique Marcu and me, in 1976 in Chicago, and for this day, the memory of its meeting and its extreme kindness didn't leave us any more, often spoke to us, and to meet him to every PIA was a big happiness.
I had the luck to meet him on February 23rd of this year, in Barcelona, we had evoked some good moments during our last ones PIA.
I would never forget him.
Patrick ELBAZ
(PARIS)
Jim Wine
March 8, 2008
My condolances to his family, friends and community for with his passing, we have all suffered a great loss.
While I had heard his name before, the first time I met him was when he sponsored me for membership in the Parachute Industry Association (PIA).
Years later, in a PIA membership committee meeting, he asked me why more people like myself weren't active in PIA (sport jumpers / part-time riggers / non-full-time industry professionals)
While we talked about several reasons, one that I told him seemed to shock him... I said that as a newbie it is intimidating to walk into the meeting room filled with all "the names" you have ever heard in the industry such as himself. And very hard to feel like you belong. (or at least feel that you won't get chased out)
This point seemed to humble, amuse and confuse him all at once... He said "Jim, you know me... do I intimidate you?" I told him that now, no... of course not. NOW I knew that he was an approachable, funny, friendly guy. But to an outsider he was the head of PARAGEAR and one of the "NAMES" in the industry... (one of the companies to whom I had written large checks!)
Rather than getting a swelled head at this new perspective, he seemed to be humbled... chuckle... and then take the conversation into the direction of how to convince new/prospective members that they were welcome and that these LEADERS were just as approachable and friendly as I had long since learned them to be.
As stated by Cliff (president PIA), he was a Gentleman... and in my dealings with him, he was certainly a gentle man.
Thanks Lowell for inviting me to be a part, and making sure I knew I was welcome at the table.
Blue Skies Lowell,
Jim Wine
"just a skydiver with a rigger's ticket"
proud PIA Member
Grace & Lofty & Family Thomas
March 7, 2008
to Dori, Chris Curt. Our sympathies go out to you all. we find the following words a big comfort and hope you will to.
Do not stand at my grave and weep,
i am not there i am asleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow
I am the diamond glints of snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain
I am th gentle autumn rain
When you awaken in the morning's hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quite birds in circled flight
I am the soft stars that shine at night
Do not stand at my grave and cry
I am not there, I did not die.
God bless and love you all, from the Thomas's
John Brasher
March 5, 2008
I'm very sorry to hear of Lowell's passing, I was fortunate enough to meet wth Lowell and his wife at a PIA convetion back in the 90's.
I purchased my first parachute a B4 container w/ brand new surplus 7'TU in 1972 from the Broadway store. Rode the subway in my 3 piece suit and wore the rig back home over the suit on the subway. Still have the container . D-5166
Alan Ganz
March 5, 2008
Dear Dori and Family:
It is with sadness that I read in the Tribune that Lowell died. My contacts with him, though limited, were most enjoyable. He was a cheerful person with a great zest for even small endeavors -- such as how best to engineer a duffel bag. We need more Lowell Bachmans in our business and personal lives these days. Our condolences.
Sincerely, Alan Ganz
Joe DiGiacomo
March 5, 2008
I met Mr. Bachman only a handful of times however, I felt I knew him well through his son, Chris. I met Chris in Durango, Colorado while attending college. Chris was already a "business man", snowboarder, skydiver, motor-head and fun to be around. Chris's relaxed attitude, inspiration and drive seemed to be from his upbringing; after meeting Lowell, I confirmed, it was. It is my pleasure to add to this wonderful list of people who are all expressing what an amazing person Mr. Bachman was to so many! Kelly, Siena, Andre, Charlotte and myself have you, Curt and Dori in our thoughts and prayers.
Nancy Jones
March 5, 2008
Dori, Chris & Curt --
I was truly sad to hear of Lowell's passing. What I will remember most is what a wonderful neighbor he was to us and how helpful Lowell (and your entire family) has been to us over the years.
He will be missed.
Dominique Marcu
March 4, 2008
Dear Dori, Chris and Curt,
I just learned the sad news… Lowell was like a “godfather” for me when I started Parachutes de France and he has proven to be a loyal reliable and good friend and person for us for his entire life. We will definitively miss him.
He dedicated his life to his family and to the parachute industry. Unlike others he did not do it for fame or fortune. Yes he created a business that is known worldwide but for some of us he will simply be remembered as Lowell the simple and generous friend he was. His success was the result of his behavior.
Please accept my sincere condolences and friendship.
Trees & Kees The Parachute Case
March 4, 2008
Dear Dori,
We are now double sorry for not attending the Barcelona Symposium. We would have talked and laughed and shared old memories like we did every 2 years. But this time we could have hugged Lowell in person. We virtually hug YOU now. A big warm hug with tears in our eyes and good memories in our hearts.
We wish you all the strength and courage you need.
And these wishes are of course also for Curt and Chris!
Hugs and Kisses from
Mike Schultz
March 4, 2008
Dori & family: The spirit of skydiving fellowship will rest eternally in the memory of Lowell. Never was an occasion more enjoyable than when Lowell, and you, were laughing and inviting others to join your reverie. To know this about him and to couple it with the contributions he made to the practice and development of skydiving worldwide is to render him amongst the pantheon of our celebrities. Lowell and I have wonderful memories of time spent together in the pursuit of the joys of the parachuting community. May you and the boys take relief in the knowledge of the sharing of your grief, and sympathy of virtually everyone in the sport and industry. We who remain merely await the arrival of our vehicle to transport us to the same destination, and we do so with affection and congratulations to Lowell for a life well lived.
Sarah & Mike Alzamora
March 3, 2008
Mrs. Bachman, Chris and Curt,
We are deeply saddened by the loss of Mr. Bachman. He always greeted us with smiles and hugs and that will always be remembered and treasured. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Sarah (Kocian) & Mike Alzamora
Lawrence Walsh
March 3, 2008
Dori- I just wanted to let you know that Lowell was one of the truest gentlemen I have ever met in my life. He was one of the first people I met when we moved to Kenilworth in 1989 and his unsung contributions to the Village, the Kenilworth Club, and to all who had the privilege to know him were inmeasurable. I shall never forget him.
The world has lost a truly good and honorable person and our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.
Larry Walsh, Debbie Walsh And Emma
Brüggemann GmbH + Co. KG
March 3, 2008
On behalf of the whole Brüggemann team, especially from Mr. Wilfried Willums, we wish to express our deep regret at the death of Mr. Lowell Bachman. Due to many year's business relationship with Para-Gear we are sending our deepest sympathy with his family and our thoughts are with them.
Lowell, Dori, Chris after flying in the Tunnel
March 2, 2008
Lowell & Chris flying in Paraclete wind Tunnel
March 2, 2008
norman g.b. barber
March 2, 2008
to dori , chris,curt,
sorry to hear your sad news
our throughts are with you all at this time
norman meet lowell back in 1993 when he came to new zealand with his son curt to see my country and i was just 13 years old and my mom and dad were in scouts
lowell you will be sadley missed bye my family
norman ,kamol ,konrad cameron william barber
bathurst nsw australia
peter & carol Coghlan
March 2, 2008
to Dori,Curt,Chris,
Sorry to hear of your sad news
allthow we only met him twice in Newzealand we all thought he was a
kind thoughtful person who injoyed
our country and our company we will
be thinking of you all and Lowell you will be sadley missed by this family RSVP
peter,Carol,Richard,Amy,Coghlan Auckland Newzealand
Tom McCarthy
March 2, 2008
Dear Dori,
As with all your many, many friends I was saddened to hear about Lowell. My thoughts are with you and your family. Hopefully, just knowing that you and Lowell have touched the lives of a countless number of people over the years and that all of us are grieving with you, will, in some small way, help you get through this painful time.
I’m not sure if you know this but I met Lowell years ago when I worked for Parachutes Incorporated. Some time later, after hearing that I had left the company and moved backed to Canada, Lowell phoned and offered me a job with Para-Gear. My wife and I drove to Chicago for an interview but being a small town Canadian boy I was a bit overwhelmed by the big city and the thoughts of living there so I turned down the job. Lowell, not to be deterred, offered to find my wife a job and also find a skydiving center that I could instruct at on the weekends. Lowell, in his low-keyed way, was very persuasive and if I hadn’t already started my own centre in Canada, I’m sure I would have taken the job at that point. I often wonder what my life would have been like if I had taken the job. I guess I’ll never know but the one thing that I do know is I’m proud to say that I knew Lowell and I’m very respectful of the many contributions that he made to this great sport of ours.
Elin Petersen
March 2, 2008
Lowell gave me some of my best memories from my 20 years as an FAI and CISM S/A judge. Not that he used to compete but he always made sure that the people around him had a good time. Lots of fun, a lot of good stories and a lot of laughs.
Not that I believe in God but every time I have been sad that a good person died, my mother has reminded me that He makes sure that He gets the good, nice and fun ones. Who need the bad ones anyway. And Lowell was for sure a person that was one of His first priorities.
I will never forget Lowell.
Gregory & Mary Thomas
March 2, 2008
Dori, Chris & Curt,
Our deepest sympathy to all of you.
We will miss Uncle Lowell. He was a great Uncle and friend. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Pete Swan
March 2, 2008
I first met Lowell at a PIA symposium in Jacksonville and was introduced to him by John Higgins. I showed him a tool I came up with and gave him a pitch, he said "Thats' a good tool, I want to carry it in my catalog.Give me some prices for it". I was thrilled! Last time I saw him was at last year's PIA in Reno, NV. and I made sure to thank him for including me in his world. I am sure glad to have met the man and my guess is we will not soon see another like him any time soon.
Jim Miller
March 1, 2008
My deepest sympathies to all the members of Lowell's family. I only knew him through 13/13, our mutual "investment" (eating and drinking) club. He has put up with my pilot joke far to many times about jumping out of a perfectly good plane. He always smiled with his typical humor and tolerance. A fine man and friend. I will miss him a great deal.
Cindi and Larry Bagley
March 1, 2008
Dear Dori, Chris, and Curt,
Lowell was the "godfather" of the skydiving community. He took care of us, inspired us, and gave us comfort by simply being with him. Thank you for sharing your husband, and father, with so many. We have all been enriched, and made better, because we had the privilege of knowing him.
Our thoughts are with you, always,
Cindi and Larry Bagley
Marcie LaVanway
March 1, 2008
It is always a surprise to hear of one so vibrant passing; learning of Lowell’s passing was more like a shock. Lowell was not just a member of our elite society, he was often, and principally at the end, the impetus to our very foundation. A true philanthropist, altruistic in every way, unconditional, absolute. I have thought of every superlative, and still I fall short…
Our loss of Lowell is also our gain if we remain ever mindful of the pure goodness of this man. For me, he will always be, the authority on optimism.
Marcie LaVanway
Bruce and Kay Wicks
March 1, 2008
Everyone in the parachuting community will miss Lowell. He was the type of person that we all wish to emulate. We have lost a very fine man of quiet strength who has made a positive impact on all of us.
We offer our condolences to his wonderful family--Dori, Chris and Curt.
Dian Chronis
March 1, 2008
Dear Dori, Chris and Curt:
Today when I read the paper and learned of Lowell's passing I was
in a state of shock. I've known Lowell since I was a child and as
an adult I also had the privilege to work with Lowell for ten years, at the Broadway location and then in Skokie. I learned at lot from Lowell in business and he was always there to guide me and give me advice whether it was for purchasing a house, car or for a family crisis he was always there. Our entire family considered him a family member,
even my grandparents.
I was just recently planning on coming over to the shop to surprise Lowell, but now I won't have the chance. I have a special place in my heart for Lowell and he will be deeply missed.
Our thoughts and prayers are with
you all.
Love,
Dian, Jim, George & Tina Chronis
Sandor Molnar
March 1, 2008
Dear Lowell M Bachman's family,
my deepest sympathy to You Lori, Chris and Curt. I am honored to have known him.
Sandor Molnar
a friend from Hungary
Mary Thompson
March 1, 2008
My husband, Paul has been at Para-Gear for 29½ years and that has allowed me the honor of knowing two of the finest people I have ever met. Lowell and Dori have treated us like family and friends even to the point of involving me in PIA. Lowell knew how dear he was to me, and I don’t want Dori to live another day without knowing how equally special she is to me. I talked to her yesterday and after dealing with such an incredible jolt, she was warm and sad and funny, and dealing with her pain in a way that allowed me to share in that pain. The loss of Lowell’s physical presence is immense for us and we will pull our memories out and remember his smile and generosity, and we will be there for Dori if there is anything she needs.
Paul Thompson
March 1, 2008
Dear Dori, Chris and Curt,
Lowell’s passing has shocked and rocked me like no other. I’ve been lucky enough to know and work for Lowell for 29½ years. You don’t work for and with a guy for that long and not like him. I can honestly say he’s the nicest man I’ve ever known. Over the years there have been countless times when he went out of his way to help me. He was my mentor before the word became popular. Lowell took care of his people like no other in the parachute industry. I’ve always been proud and honored to say I worked for Lowell Bachman at Para-Gear. The parachute industry has lost a great advocate and source of knowledge and wisdom. In 2001, PIA gave me its highest award, and Lowell played a huge part in making that happen. I will be forever grateful! Lowell played countless important roles behind the scenes that few in the skydiving world knew about. That was okay with him. Over the years, he gave countless kids summer jobs. I will miss our conversations about politics and the stock market but mostly I’ll just miss the man. Lowell was kind, considerate, generous, wise, and I feel very fortunate to have known him. He has had such a huge influence in my life that right now it feels like I lost my second father. Dori, my thoughts are with you and the boys always.
valerie kariotis-sarelas
March 1, 2008
Dear Dori,Curt & Chris,
My earliest memories of Lowell was seeing him crawling through my grandmothers basement window on magnolia and he and my uncle jim would be repacking and repairing parachutes and laughing together for hours. He was a hugh part of our childhood and the entire Stoyas family. Which as you know continued for many years. He was more than a family friend. He was always so supportive and expressed great concern for dian and myself. That's the kind of man he was ,giving himself totally to others. It has been years since we have seen each other but he has always and always will have a special place in our hearts. With sincere sympathies,
val, dian, tony and koula.
Bill Sharp
March 1, 2008
Deepest condolences to all close family and friends. Such a shock to hear about it as I only saw him the last Friday of the Barcelona PIA. He looked so well. I met Lowell about 25 years ago, since then our paths crossed every now and then, mostly at PIA Symposiums. So sorry.
Jean & Angelos Bozarelos
February 29, 2008
Dear Doris, Chris & Curt,
You're in our thoughts today ...
"From the tree of life each leaf must fall, the green, the gold, the great, the small ... each one in God's own time, He'll call."
Our very deepest sympathy at this time of sorrow.
Love you,
Eliana Espinoza-Lerzundi
February 29, 2008
Dear Dori, Curt and Chris:
My deepest condolences to you. My prayers, love and thoughts are with you specially in this moment.
(What a wonderful memory I have of you at the 13/13 business club Christmas party last year! You will always be present with us)
Brent & Amy Dickson
February 29, 2008
Dori, Chris, Curt, It is with great sadness that we send you this note of condolence on Lowell's move to the big Dz at God's side.
A man of integrity, insight, passion and true caring for the sport of skydiving and his family and friends. In the world of Skydiving there are many world champions, national champions and great skydivers,new comers, old guys & gals, pioneers, and the sort, but ther was only one Lowell and all of us in one way or another have been and will continue to be touched by Lowell in anything involved with the great sport of skydiving. It is to men and women the world over to remember and praise his contributions and attributes, for without men of his caliber we would all be lesser people. In closing, it was a true honor to share the status of Knighthood with Lowell, and know that his dedication to his family, friends and our sport will be forever remembered. God bless, Blue Skies and soft landings forever to you Lowell...
Brent&Amy
Marjorie Bates
February 29, 2008
Dori and family
I just returned from a short trip and learned the sad news while reading my accumulated e-mail. I am so sorry, I know the pain you are suffering. You don't think so now but in time it will start to ease. It will never go away. I know how hard it is. If there is anything in any way that I can do to help you I am here. I will remember you in my prayers. We have all suffered a great loss of a most kind and dignified gentleman. God blees you all.
Maybe Lowell and Jim can have a beer together at St. Peter's Bar.
Love , Marge
Cubs Game Wrigley Field
Lyn & Steve Sills
February 29, 2008
Dory, Chris & Curt: Our deepest sympathies to you all. What great times and wonderful memories we have all had with Lowell and your entire family. We feel so fortunate to have been your next door neighbor for 35 years! Attached picture of us at Wrigley field, what fun!
Manley Butler
February 29, 2008
Dear Dori,
I was out of touch for a few days after the Symposium and upon my return I was shocked and deeply saddened to learn of Lowell’s death - I never imagined it would be the last time I would see him. I know that this is a tough time for you – please know that my prayers are with you and with Lowell.
Lowell was truly a gentleman in every sense – personally and professionally - and I am privileged to have known him. The world is a better place for his having been here with us - and tens of thousands all over the world will have a bit of empty space in our lives now that he is gone.
I know that you (and Lowell!) are justifiably proud of Curt and Chris – and his strength and character lives on in them. I am sure that the three of you will get through this – but feel free to call upon me for anything you might need.
With my warmest regards, fondly,
Manley
PS - We at Butler Parachutes will be honored to make a corporate donation to the museum in memory of his professional relationship with us. Furthermore, I will be honored to make a personal donation in memory of our friendship from 1976 all the way through last week in Barcelona.
Teresha Thames
February 29, 2008
Thank you for enriching our lives, our country, and our sport.
Jim Dominik
February 29, 2008
Dori, Chris and Curt,
I was shocked to learn of Lowell’s passing and want to express our most sincere condolences. Lowell was a great man and a true gentleman. We enjoyed getting to know him first through the Wilmette Harbor where he was Mr. Bachman (which he chastised me for years for referring to him as) and always doing something to better the harbor. Later we saw more of him at Halter, Northbrook Sports Club and Michigan Shores club and at every place and every contact he was always held in high regard by anyone that had the pleasure of being in his presence. We will miss him and you all are in our thoughts and prayers.
Jim and Kathy Dominik
The Mavin Family
February 29, 2008
Our deepest and sincerest sympathy to the imediate and extended family. He will be missed.
Dick & Eloise Neidhardt
February 29, 2008
Dear Dori, Chris & Curt,
We are in total shock to hear of the passing of Lowell. Our deepest condolences to you. Lowell was admired by us and so many others. He was always so generous with his talents and time. We are currently in Florida but will contact you soon. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Sincerely,
fay & kevin murphy
February 29, 2008
to dori ,chris,curt & family
our condolences to you all
i had meet lowell twice and throught what a very kind man who loved life and his family and throught the world of all kinds of people.contact [email protected]
lowell you will be sadley missed bye my family in new zealand auckland
fay ,kevin murphy.
Cheryl Spatig (Zimmermann)
February 29, 2008
I am honored to have known Lowell. What a tragic loss to his family and the sport. Lowell - you will be missed by many. Dori, Chris and Curt - my deepest sympathy.
Eric Smith
February 29, 2008
I was saddened to hear that Lowell has passed away. From the days when Para-Gear was still on Broadway in Chicago to it's move to Skokie - even though Para-Gear is mainly a mail order type business he would let me walk in and get my reserve repacked. Sometimes even on weekends when the store was closed and he was in back washing his boat. He was such a class act and I'll always have fond memories of him.
The Mavin Family
February 29, 2008
Our deepest sympathy to his immediate and extended family, he will be missed.
Al and Kristin Gramando
February 29, 2008
Dori, Curt and Chris,
It only seems like yesterday that I was picking Lowell up at the Fairbanks, Alaska Airport when he came to judge our conference meet. That was Sep 1971.
Lowell was the consumate gentleman. He was the one person in the skydiving industry (business) that everyone in our business should pattern themselves after. Lowell gave creditability to our industry.
He will leave a very big hole in all the lives of everyone he touched. Kristin and I are truly sorry for your loss. As long as there is skydiving Lowell will be there. De oppresso liber.
Jessica Blay
February 29, 2008
In the short time i've come to know the Bachman family, you are truly a kind, loving and fun family. In this difficult time please know our prayers and thoughts are with you. May this time of grief bring you all closer together. From all of us at Twin Graphix.
Mo Gionfriddo
February 29, 2008
Dori and Boys
I am deeply saddened by Lowell's passing. I've known him only for a few years, but in those years, I've learned what a truly fine gentleman he was - quiet, affable, always helpful. Dori, I know that he was also loving. When we were sitting together at the head table at the banquet, I noticed at one time during the meal that Lowell reached over and gently rubbed your back for a few seconds. I marvelled at the love that was still there after your many years of marriage.
Lowell will be greatly missed by the entire parachute community and I know he will always be remembered.
William Hasenfus
February 29, 2008
My condolences,I have fond memories of Lowell. He competed in my first parachute meet back in 1962 with his 28' round and hot TU mod.
The time we had down at POP's place down in Fl.
Even then he was involed in fighting the airlines that were trying to ban us from the skies.
I loved his easy going ways.
A good man,and will be missed.
Bill Hasenfus
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