Alan Baskin - a living eulogy

This Morning....and more

Dear Alan, 9/16/99

I awoke this morning around 5:30am, (which as you know, is unheard of for me unless I'm on a boat out on the ocean). As I drifted in and out of sleep for a few minutes, I realized I was having a dream about you, and let myself go back to it. We were on the balcony at the Magic Castle looking toward Guana Island.. the sun just about to come up over the horizon. As is often the case, there was a stunning array of colors, soft gold, light orange, and saffron softly filtering into the sky just above the blsack ocean and above us, the dark blue of night/dawn was beginning to retreat westward silently being replaced by the lighter blue that signals a new day. I noticed there were two bright orbs still visable, one I recognized as Venus....very bright and clear...The other may have been Sirus but I'm not sure. All in all, it was a glorious kind of morning that makes it worthwhile to be up at that time of day...A morning similar to many I have experienced on the ocean...one that people who live in cities never get to see.

The feeling as we stood there close to each other was very, very peaceful...and yet there was anticipation and excitement about what was about to happen...about what we were about to experience....and it pulled our minds forward..ready..open..accepting...

You said something to me which I didn't understand so I turned to you. What I saw was absolutley beautiful. The first thing I noticed was that you were much younger, your hair darker, your face less creased with wisdom lines. A golden light was all around your head and body and it illuminated your face... I'm uncertain if it was shining on your face..or if it was coming from your face as it appeared to just be a part of you. Your eyes were gently closed and you had a slight smile on your lips as if you were having peaceful and loving thoughts.

The golden light on and around you was so tangible that I turned to look at the horizon again to see if the sun had come up and was, in fact, the source of the light...but it was still just below the horizon.

I was immediately compelled to close my eyes and when I did you said telepathically to me, " All fear is illusion...It has no power but what we give it....Do you know this?" I said yes. You then said, "There is only love..everything else is illusion", and at that moment I felt this incredible love from you...which I attempted to send back to you. I also felt myself relax greatly and felt my being lifted slightly, as though I was much lighter. Then you said, "There is only one mind...time ...place. It's just another illusion that there are many minds....times..places." Again, I agreed as I understood that you were speaking of God.

There was a period of time, a minute or two, that I just floated in these truths...contemplating them..loving the cleaness...filled with a certain power from them. Then, I opened my eyes and for some reason was not at all surprised when I realized that I was on the beach at Little Bay standing in the deep white sand. The wind was gentle on my face and I heard small waves coming in and going out that sounded like perfect breathing and caused me to sway back and forth with their cadence.

I saw that you were standing in front of me near the edge of the water which was still a very dark green/blue, it not being fully dawn yet. You had your back to me, you had your hands folded together in front of you and you were looking out at the water, and I had the impression you had been there for a long time...just thinking.....just being one with it all. You were dressed in white loose fitting clothes, the same as at my wedding you performed just yards away on this very same beach a few short months ago.

I watched as you bent down and scooped up a handful of sand which you looked at intently and then you again said something that I couldn't hear. I started to move closer to you, but I felt that you wanted me to stay where I was, so I stopped. Immediately, in my mind, I heard you say, "There is only one conversation going on in the universe, Mallory. And, there are only two sides to that conversation; Does God exist..or doesn't He. Every conversation on Earth contains the essence of one side or the other of this spiritual conversation."

You then turned toward me and looked in my eyes and said, "Belief is like these grains of sand. The sand is something significant...Unbelief, however, is just the space between the grains. It's true the space exists...but it's of no consequence...it's nothing of itself because it's really only the absence of that which is significant and real." I acknowledge the truth of this with a look of recognition on my face and in my eyes... and you smiled at me with a pleasant, knowing smile....and at that very moment the sun peaked over the horizon, embracing everything in it's warmth, and coloring everything in golden-pink, the sand turning a beautiful shade, even more pronounced against the blue-green of the water.

*********************************************************

I think I can release you now, brother.

Thank you for the private time you shared with me this morning.

Thank you for your love...

I really KNEW you loved me almost from the very beginning...that's what's been so hard about this....You were someone I KNEW loved me...I mean I absolutely KNEW you loved ME......and I'm never gonna be ready to give that up.....ya know what I mean? I'm selfish in this way and it's too damn hard to find....especially for a knucklehead like me.

And our friendship...geez! Ya just don't go out every day and find one like this one's been. It's been INTENSE,man!

And, hell, Alan, there never would have been any of those things if you hadn't been able to forgive me like you did. Gosh, Buddy, Thanks for forgiving me....

And...Thank you for all the fun..the laughs... the jokes..the stories..the wide eyed looks and guffaws and out of control belly laughs that made me want to pee in my pants! But, Damn! thanks is way too mild a word....

And..Like I told you on the phone...as crazy and unpredictable and just nutty as life is...we'll probably end up married to each other next time...
Now wouldn't that be a hoot!

Well, I could go on and on, (as you know;-)...So I'll just end this with saying...

My dear friend...my brother...continue on in your enviable style. Know you will be greatly missed..know that you have made your mark on this world..on me..on everyone. Be proud, buddy. You certainly have the right to be.

Most of all, be at peace...

In this world, we'll all try to take care of one another and attempt to fill the void that will forever remain with your passing. Thankfully though, all of us who love you, have had the benefit of your example in showing us HOW to love.

As proof..
Just like I have heard you say to me so many times in the past...

I love you....more, (SMILE)

Mallory

How refreshing

We don't know one another, but I find your view of life, and its end refreshing. A forty nine year old, I look around and see friends running and hiding in fear of old father time. Exercise and good health should be a natural high, a way to live -- but so should our approach to death. The traditional Japanese Samurai have a saying that life is learning how to die. It appears you have learned that lesson well. Hug your loved ones and enjoy the ride.

God bless and see you on the other side.

Jim

You are an inspiration

Alan,

Though we've never met, I feel I have a tie to you on two counts. I share the love of the underwater world, and my brother-in-law has an inoperable brain tumor. It saddens me most that, after seeing your ad for Baskin in the Sun for so long, I will probably never get the chance to meet you. You and your wife seem like genuinely nice people, and that is rare in this life. I offer my prayers for you and your family, that your last days here on this earth will be blessed and comfortable and that your family will be secure in knowing that you go to a better place.

God Bless You,

David Bell

Swim into your new life

Dear Alan;
I read your story in today's "Herald" and it brought tears to my eyes.I am 58 and I, too, have cancer. I'm "hanging in there", and although I don't dive any more, I plan to "swim with the dolphins" on my 60th Birthday !!! Reading your story I was thinking about one of the most memorable and beautiful days in my life, when I was diving "the Wall" in Nassau.I felt like I was in the middle of a Fairy Tale, another magical world, which I did not want to leave.
You have seen much "magic" in your life, and I know you will see much, much more once you "swim into your new life". I know, my friend, because GOD will make it so!
And I leave you with part of my favorite poem by Walt Whitman: "Now, voyager, depart.Much, much is yet for thee in store." Your friend; Brigitte Capalbo

REMEMBER WHEN YOU WERE A REPORTER?

Alan,

After hurricane Bertha you came to our little house to see if we survived and the next thing you know were are reporting to WPLG-Tv over the phone on how we survived the hurricane!!! That was so much fun. It turned into a little "after the hurricane party".

SaraH and I are always thinking of you. If anyone here has ever read the book, "Tuesdays with Morrie" Alan Baskin is our Morrie.

Thanks Alan. and "hello" to you Eva.

God Bless you both!

Love,

Bill and Sarah

Diving at your resort was always my dream.

Dear Alan,

Diving at your resort was always a dream of mine. But growing up in Guam it was just so far away and I just never made the time.

Thank you for all of your contributions to this world. You have made it a better place. Thank you.

The whole world is cheering you!

Dearest Alan,

Just read the Miami Herald. Now the whole world will be sending you beams of energy and peace. (Not that you need it!!)

Love you lots, annie mcgovern

God bless you Alan!

You are an inspiration to life itself!

Going Home

Your time above is done my son . . . you can come home now.
Poseidon

You're an inspiration.

I don't know you, have never met you, have never seen you,but I read about you in this morning's Miami Herald and am so impressed by the outpouring of love and good wishes that you have inspired in so many people thaatI just had to add mine. You have touched my life, and for that I thank you.
Greta Ferri ghferri@aol.com

1 Peter 2:24 in the Bible

Hey Brother, A friend of yours dropped me your web site and told me your condition. I just want to say to you that Jesus Christ already died for our sins (this includes diseases). You know I see this type of thing all the time where a doctor will give someone some bad news and they will take that as their last opportunity. My question is, why? If God can raise the dead from 4 days at death, (Lazarus) (John 11:41 -45) 41 Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead man was lying. And Jesus lifted up His eyes and said, "Father, I thank You that You have heard Me.
42 "And I know that You always hear Me, but because of the people who are standing by I said this, that they may believe that You sent Me."
43 Now when He had said these things, He cried with a loud voice, "Lazarus, come forth!"
44 And he who had died came out bound hand and foot with graveclothes, and his face was wrapped with a cloth. Jesus said to them, "Loose him, and let him go."
45 Then many of the Jews who had come to Mary, and had seen the things Jesus did, believed in Him.
Brother, let me suggest to you to go to a man or woman of GOD, that flow thru the Holy Spirit of God where healing can flow to you. I do not know where you are at in your spiritual walk, but I do know what is impossible with man, is possible with God. At our Church, we pray for people in this condition fairly often. We see the positive results which they were healed through the name of Jesus Christ. You see, sympathy, is something that will not heal you - but it will invite the spirit of death, if welcomed.
Brother, my prayer to you, is that you will come to the knowledge of Christ, and turn to Jesus for your healing and restoration. And I pray that you know Jesus Christ first, so you have that insurance policy knowing where you are going when you die. That is most important. If you belong to God, HE will heal his children. If you have further questions, you can email me at my meb site which is
http://home.earthlink.net/~jim46/
I pray brother you will be healed in Jesus Christ name.
Honestly and sincerely in Jesus name, Jim Murphy

To Alan Baskin DIVER

Dear Alan,may God bless you now,and may I say I am a friend of yours from StThomas V.I. living now in Miami,I have dove with you and Armando Jenik on all the beautifull sites in the B.V.I.I know my own life is richer for having Known you may Gods peace be with you always.
Ret.Senator David A Puritz and Family

Farewell, friend

Dearest Alan,

I saw you last on the dock at Village Cay when you came to meet those pool service guys from St. Croix. You looked to me then like you had always appeared to me - as a man who knew the secret of a happy life. In all the years I knew you, I don't think there was ever a fraction of a moment when you didn't have that glint in your eye and the smile on your face to go along (I'm sure having Eva by your side is part of the reason!) More importantly, there was a never a moment that you weren't available to share that glint and smile.

You were and remain an inspiration to those who know you. Though I'll miss you dearly, your example will always be with me. Wherever you go from here, please keep an eye on us and help guide us to that place you got your glint and smile.

All my love to you and Eva,

Dan Betta
danbetta@aol.com

I always suspected that you were like March....you came in and bought out George Marler quietly like a lamb and now you are going out like a lion, with a lot of noise. So I am drinking my morning coffee and open up the Miami Herald and there you are on the front page. Now if anyone was to ask me where I would find Alan Baskin....I would say on the front page, of course. I am sorry to hear you are going down for the count! I remember the first time we met. You were trying to get George's business running again and you had this wild tale of baby formula, diving and Haiti and governments and a beautiful girl friend with long blond hair. Typical Caribbean pirate stuff. You certainly made your mark on Tortola and most of us will think of you when we think of clear water, colorful fish and the good life. I left Tortola in 1992 and moved to Key West ( that's as much civilization as I could take after 13 years in Tortola) so I don't know if you will remember my name but You remembered my face about a year ago in Road Town. I wsa Tortola's structural engineer for many years. Have a peaceful journey, Alan, to wherever we go from here. Butch Wilson...keysengr@aol.com

alan baskin

if you ready for that beautiful trip and god will embrace you in his arms and will b beautifull you will see

Good For YOU!!

I am proud of you and your attitude, Alan. That is just the way I would want to feel if faced with the same thing you are. You have a lot of courage and are to be congratulated on your outlook. Happiness and good feelings will be the best things for you and those around you that love you and that you love, too.
Bob Wilson

You Are Blessed

Alan,
I was on a group dive with you years ago. You remain vivid in my memory. They dive opened me to the wonders of sucba and took away so much of my fear that had been hurting my soul. Thank you for the gift you gave me.

Kare Roth

Dear Grandpa,

Hi Gandpa,I really enjoyed going down to see you it meant alot to me. The best thing about the whole trip was when we had that talk in your room because we have never really sat down and talked to each other, i like talking to you. I'm going to miss you a lot, but you can always visit me in my dreams right?!
love your Granddaughter,
Jenny

To the most wonderful grandpa i know.................

Dear grandpa, hi, hows the handsome grandpa of the world? :-) By the way, its me Tessie. one of your pretend grandaughter. huh! just kidding. Remember? the best nanny of your real grandchildren Chelsea and Vanessa? :-) Well i guess you still remember me. Grandpa........im so sorry to hear that your sick, i been trying to reach you to know how are you doing, i just call Jim and Roberta this evening, and they told me that i can reach you here. im sooooooo excited to hear from you. hows Granny Eva? your lucky, you have someone whose wonderful as she is. also i would like to extend my love and prayer to both of you. Grandpa?............ Please feel better.......... expect for more note from us.....so.. hung on there. We love you, Tess and the kids Note, No matter what, your still looking good!
I will love to hear from you and granny. so please E-mail me sometimes. TTendras@aol.com

A Friend of a Friend

Hi Alan,

Although we have never met, I feel that I have known you for quite some time. I worked for Michael Coren for many years and he is a very dear friend. When it was time to vacation, I usually headed to the Gulf of Mexico and he and Mary Lou of course went to Haiti. We always exchanged news of our trips and his adventures in Haiti were much about this wonderful man named Alan Baskin. There are a lot of things I do know about you and yes, your has been very full. I had many laughs listening to some of Michael's stories and adventures with you and wished that I could have been a part of them. But then he would tell me about rats and scorpions in Haiti and I realized I'd never make it there! I am a wimp. Meeting you would have been a privilege. I wish you smiles and peace Alan and God Bless You. Love, Debbie

Her Father's Daughter

I have never met Alan, but I feel as if I know the man, and what I know is that he is a most amazing and inspirational person. The reason I know this is because of his daughter, Roberta Baskin, who is a dear friend and one of the most wonderful people I know on the face of this earth. She, her husband and two daughters are the best. So, logically, if Roberta is as delightful as she is, one can only conclude that Alan passed down some key joy genes to his daughter. And from what I have come to understand about Alan, his influence on Roberta's life has been both warm and celebratory.

Roberta speaks often of the great happiness she has found in recent years in re-discovering her father. And she speaks with a delightful lilt in her voice about Alan's joy of life and his decided ability to pass along that joy to all those around him. I know that Roberta's life has been made so much richer because of the last few years with her dad. And, truth be told, from the sound of it, she is clearly her father's daughter.

I would love to meet Alan some day soon, but even if that should never happen, I feel as if I know him...and he serves as a shining light as to how wonderful our lives could, and should, be. My very best to him and my sincere thanks to him for his gift of joy. He should be very proud of his girl as she will no doubt carry on his spirit long after he's left this world and taken his celebration of life elsewhere. And I want to go wherever that is.

Cheers,
John Dunlap
Washington, D.C.

On the flip side!

Alan,
I just spoke with Roberta and she told me about what was happening with you. I am obviously upset, as I never made it to Tortola to meet you. It is my hope that you will read this message and understand that you and Roberta are responsible for one of the best things I have ever accomplished in my life - helping Roberta find you!
As a federal agent, especially one involved in the dirty business of "immigration", "nice" things don't happen everyday. In fact, most times I'm nothing but a professional schmuck who disrupts poor immigrants' lives. I try to do it in a nice way, but a schmuck is a schmuck.
When I located your whereabouts for Roberta back in the 80's I felt as though I had done something that mattered. I knew it was important to Roberta and that was enough for me. I am just happy it worked out the way it did, and the two of you have put many smiles on my face when I think about the results of my "insurance investigation" in Florida.
Although we have never met, you are one of my heroes. I have never been married, and have partied in many parts of the world. When I saw your picture, and read about "Baskin-in-the-Sun", I knew you were my kind of guy. All I wanted to do was fly down to Tortola, mix a batch of Margaritas, watch beautiful women, and sit on your boat and talk about diving - notice I said "talk" - if it ain't fishing my ball out of the lake on the golf course, I don't do water!We would have had a blast!
Your Sinatra song is perfect - "you did it your way" - and that makes you very rare. I respect you for it more than you will ever know.
I will continue to think about you, as I have for many years. And of course I will stay in touch with Roberta and her beautiful family. With all of my love, I wish you Godspeed. Take care, Alan!
I'll see you someday "on the flip side".
Neville W. Cramer

Alan's Savoir Faire Joke

The Meaning of Savoir-Faire, as told by Alan Baskin

An American couple had taken a trip to France. They made adequate preparations for their trip, including learning many French phrases. While having lunch at an outdoor cafe in Paris they had a difference of opinion about the phrase 'savoir-faire'. To settle the disagreement, they approached three older frenchmen at a nearby table for clarification. In Franglais, the husband politely asked the three what the term 'savoir-faire' really means.

The first fellow, Jean Louis, thinks for a moment and then says, "Let me use an example to explain. The husband comes home, goes into the bedroom and finds his beautiful young wife in bed with another man. 'I'm sorry', he says to his wife and the man and closes the bedroom door. ZAT is 'savoir-faire'.

The other two fellows shake their heads, "no, no". The second man, Phillip, has a slightly different opinion and says, "In a better example, when the husband walks into the bedroom and finds his beautiful young wife in bed with another man, he says, 'I'm sorry, but PLEASE go on', closes the door and he leaves. Now, ZAT is 'savoir-faire!'".

The third fellow, Andre, shakes his head. "NO, NO, NO" he says with disgust. "Let me tell you exactly what is 'savoir-faire'. The man comes home to find his beautiful young wife in bed with another man. He says, 'I'm sorry, but please go on', closes the door to the bedroom and leaves.

NOW.... if the other man is able to CONTINUE - ZAT is
savoir-faire!"

Dear Alan,

When Priscilla told me to visit the website www.alanbaskin.net, I figured you were probably set up to do "est" or some other psychological, spirtual enlightenment for others over the internet...and I was right! I fondly remember last Thanksgiving with you and Eva at Micky and Betty Sue's house and over at the magic castle. I hope I remembered to thank you for blowing up my portable & inflatable beach chair. It now waits for me at Micky's and forever will I think of you when I bask in the sun at little apple bay.

Your happiness and joy for life in life will lead you gracefully into afterlife. See you on the other side friend.

Regards,
Melanie Whiteway

Journey through life

Dear Alan, Do you rember the day you decided not to join the dive and,in your absence,the group encountered a fifty-foot whale shark. For an hour,they swam with it,played with it and rode on its back. When you told me about it that evening you were literally gnashing your teeth because you had missed the experience. It sounds as though--after reading the wonderful messages from your friends--this was the only day of your life that wasn't perfect. I hope that the journey upon which you are about to embark will be as lovely as your journey through life.
Your fellow BVIslander, Joe Bruce

From your oldest living close friend Mitchell Leiser

Amigo mio

Am told U'll still read this. Great. U & I have been thru a lot. Knoiw what I regret...that I opted to try 2 visit my son Greg in Ct. from Madrid via "ASTRAL TRAVEL" and not U in BVI. (I know U read the unimpeachable testimony, which I just today discussed at a bit of length with Roberta, since it was OK'd as the 1st non USA episode of 20/20). Had I done that boy would there be talk of curing whatever ailed U at that time and from Madrid too. Its always more everything if it happens 2 U and not to someone in Scotland as was the case. Alas we poor mortals, prone 2 so many errors. You're also unique in that your timing was always great and U made few of the stumbling errors, though U did go on normal walks, one foot afore the other trips, always without a parachute, and so U stumbled too much.

In chatting with Roberta am reminded, and since others I understand will read this, is to recount another inexplicable in the life of A.B. the Chicago seat belt episode.Oops am I running out of space here ? I'd have 2 send another continuing message...maybe not newlines seem to appear, so I'll go on. We two have led some super eclectic lives, yet in the diversity & unusualness I still hold a documented lead over you. Just a thought....why didn't I find a way to take you along with me in my award movie with the stone age people I lived with all over the world for 9 months. I'm in remorseful country at this moment, as I deprived U of....of course U coulda said "no" too.

Hey the journey U R now embarking on, is just another journey, new explorations to look forward to old chap, problem is, unless I somehow join U, I'll probably nver be tolkd what your experinces to come, were all about.

U know all the jokes I provided U with all these years, I got another one and a funny clean one too. Ready ?

Tiger Woods & Stevie wonder meet. Tiger tells Stevie how much he likes his music. Stevies does same with golf. Tiger says "huh hm how" Stevie says oh yes & I play golf too. "How's that possible ?" "Simple my caddy stands 1/2 way down fairway and loudly sings one of songs & know what....usually the ball is centered on fairway". "and what about putting ?" "simple too, caddy stands behind cup & softly sings one of my songs and usually the ball falls into cup....as a matter of fact I'd love to play with U".
"There's a problem, I usually get $1000 a hole". "Oh that no problem with me, so tell me what night shall we play ?"

Is that OK withcha?

I'm so used calling U twice a wk, that this method of website is a bit different 4 me with U. We've talked early about your being at peace. Shows 2 go ya how intelligent U R & U know what I mean by that !!!!!

I've told Eva in a tedious repetitive manner that she should use me, lean on me, etc etc, when needed as she continues on her trek, and not have 2nd thoughts about it, or the nonsense mortals come up with, why not to whatever it may be. If U want 2 do something else 4 her, make a point of adding your powerful voice to the execution of that offer and make the point as we both know U R able 2 do. I never know how factually she takes the words emanating from your truly. I'm not going 2 mak 2 big a thing, as I don't want 2 embarass U !!!!! inre; how I will miss U, but just suggest U spend maybe .0000099 secs on the subject, breathe in, and well digest it. Zats zat.

I hope & expect that timing will allow your ear's availability to as many more calls to thee ole friend, and maybe I'll have the pleasure of hearing your distinctive voice in return.

Alan.....I don't know how to end this 1st experience in my life with U with this website.......any ideas ? No ? Alas, I reckon I should then "hasta la vista" and it there and thusly. LUV Mitch

PS If U should be able to remember...tell me of your journey and I'll tell U mine, I promise, when we meet. OK ?

With Love from Serge and Sandy

Alan,

Sorry to see you go, old friend.

Wanted to remind you of a couple of the many fond memories we shared. The first is the Mad Tarpon of the Keys. He got away, but not until after he had bent the prop in half, jumped in the boat, smashed the seats, broke the rod and then jumped back in the water. Meanest fish I've ever seen in my life.

And then there was the time during the '68 Democratic National Convention in Chicago where we were part of the group running a pig for president. I remember hiding the pig in your house as Mayor Daley's storm-troopers were out trying to arrest the pig. Crazy times. I'll never eat a pig again without thinking of that.

Thank you for all the laughs and good times. We love you. Have a good trip.

See you soon,

Serge and Sandy

to the "Grand Master" and his Princess ,

Alan,

All I have ever heard about you,for some 10 years or so,is what an enlightened soul,you are !

You and Eva's life has appeared to me, as if it was from some beautiful mystical place.The tales I have heard from dear friends of yours, how they effortlessly,speak of you with this illuminating radiance,and incredible gratitude,of being your friend,is awe inspiring.

I wasn't able to ever meet you on this physical plain,
however I did come close once.Your Magic Castle was to be the destination,after a cat transport, from Wst Palm to Tortola,with Captain Mallory.

I will sail the seas one day,but I unfortunately will never be able to make your acquaintance,at least not here on these testing grounds.

I wish you incredible travels into this next life Mr Allen. Peace and Serenity to your loved ones who will be staying here.You have affected my life in a beautiful way,even though we have never met.

May God hold you in the Palm of his hand,forever.......

B-ro

Alan:

You may recall me as Roberta's close friend "Dave" from Chicago. I spent some great time with you and Eva at her wedding in Washington, which has left me with wonderful and fond memories of you. I will always remember sharing Roberta's great search to find you, and how you turned her life around once she found you by being the father she had always hoped to have. I know that her brief time together with you filled her with more joy than she would have had in a lifetime with anyone else.

You have been larger than life, filled with an indomitable passion for life. Your greatest legacy to everyone is Roberta, who has inherited your spirit and has passed it on to Chelsea and Vanessa. As I hope you know, Roberta has been closer to me than virtually anyone else in my life, and that is your personal legacy to me, for which I am eternally grateful. You should know that you have made Roberta, Jim, their kids, and everyone around her, immeasurably happy, for which we all thank you. We will all have a smile and a happy heart whenever we think of you -- and that will be often -- in the years to come.

I wish you serenity and a great journey.

Dave

Peg Lotito

Dear Mr. Baskin,

I work with Roberta on The Fund For Investigative Journalism. After visiting your web site, it is easy to see where she got her love of life, her positive and outgoing attitude and her genuine interest in others.

I wish I was writing to you in better times but please know that I am thinking of you.

BASKIN IN THE SHADE??

Regardless of your costume, you never look good "baskin in the shade". Although I loved it. Thank you for being part of the happy and peaceful face of the world. Allan and Eva:Love you both.

Claudia Ronderos
BITS

Nothing New

Dearest Alan:

I have put off making a contribution to this list because I didn't know what to say that had not already been expressed. I realize there are no new things to say because you have affected so many of us in the same incredible manner.

So, my friend, I will tell you again that you have left footprints on my heart and I will never, ever be the same.

Thank you for the wonderful gift of your friendship. I will always love you and keep you near in my heart.

Emma B.

One of the things Alan knew all along....

The idea is to die young as late as possible.

~ ~ Ashley Montagu

There has to be some Jewish humor in all this.....

An elderly Jewish man was at home, dying in bed. He smelled the aroma of his favorite chocolate chip cookies baking. Of all the foods he loved..his wife's chocolate chip cookies were his favorite. He decided he wanted one last cookie before he died. He called out in a weak voice several times to his wife..but to no avail. Finally, with all the energy he could muster, he fell out of bed, crawled to the landing, slowly slithered down the stairs, and inched his way into the kitchen where his wife was busily baking cookies.

With waning strength he pulled himself over to the table and was just barely able to lift his weakened arm to the cookie sheet. As he grasped a warm, moist, chocolate chip cookie, his wife suddenly whacked his hand with a spatula.

"Why?" he whispered. "Why did you do that?"

"They're for the funeral," she replied.

Alan, we hardly new ya!!

Really, it's true, we hardly new ya. We are friends of Roberta and Jim's in Washington and have met you briefly on your various sojourns north. I can tell you this: while you only knew Roberta for a portion of each of your lives, you heaped on more love and attention than most parents do for their children in a full lifetime. As an outside observer, I can attest that you brought much joy to her life and the lives of Jim and your grandchildren. You must be a real class act!

Ed Cohen and Charlene Barshefsky

To Alan with Love

Alan,

I have so very many fond memories of you as I was growing up, it is so hard to know when it all really began. My family has followed you from Haiti to Tortola - definately the best years of all of our lives. Trey and I are so very blessed to have you share in our wedding celebration, just this last November. I want to thank you for all that you have contributed to our lives, you are with us in our thoughts and prayers always.

With much fondness and love,
Amy (Dickson) and Trey Gannon

Clear Sailing Ahead

When you can't change the direction of the wind...
adjust your sails.

Alan, you have learned to tack very well.

When you don't have the time to do it right, when will you
find the time to do it over?

You did your way which is the best way you knew.

People can be divided into FOUR categories:

1) Those who watch things happen.
2) Those who wait for things to happen.
3) Those who make things happen.
4) And those who Wonder what happened.

You've watched, waited & made things happen. Bravo!

Finally....Fate deals the cards but You play the hand.

Needless to say, you play very well. I am blessed to
be a part of your circle of friends. Just remember....if
you didn't meet Eva first, I would have scooped you up in a heartbeat. ;-)

Love, Your #1 Fan

Searching for Alan

Alan you old pirate,
What a great big mark you've left on the world! And all of it left with all the people you've touched (and touched... and hugged...and kissed... and...)

I remember when you were probably in jail -- at least that's what Roberta thought must have happened to you...

It was all a long time ago, before you two found each other, and as best I can remember, all she had was a social security number and the curiosity of an investigative reporter trying to decide whether she really wanted to track down her missing father...
What she'd found out was that Alan Baskin hadn't been on the government's books for a long time(!) so she'd concluded that he was either dead, or in jail. The next step was whether to follow up and send someone to his last known address...

I'm glad she did, and that she found you, very much alive, in Tortola. And better yet, with Eva.

I remember her excitement when she called about that first telephone conversation, how surprised and extraordinarily open and welcoming you were to her, and her even greater excitement after the first time you met in person:
"What did you notice first?" I asked. "His toes! We have the same toes!"

Yeah, there's no doubt about the genes. You each have great appetites, for life and food and love and friendship. And you're her greatest gift, to those of us who know and love her, and so got to know you and Eva, and to Roberta herself, who found you finally. You made her whole.

Thank you. We love you from around the world, for all the loving you did, and for the gift to us of seeing how it all comes back. Just reading these messages affirms that.

Renata sends her love and affection. She still want Eva to teach her to dive.

Keep on truckin' buddy.

David (Fanning)

Thank-you!

Dear Alan,

During my 2 years on Tortola I always enjoyed,and looked forward to, your visits to the Dive Shop.

Your words of encouragement and kind offerings of advice were much appreciated- and always very timely. I constantly marvelled at your spirit and the obvious joy you have for life and all that it has given you, from one exotic adventure to the next!

Thank-you for always taking the time to say Hello and for sharing parts of your exceptional life with us.You truly are an inspiation to us all!

My thoughts are with you, Eva and your Family.

Thanks for being an inspiring Friend,

Kevin Dobb
Formerly of Baskin in the Sun, Tortola, B.V.I.

BVI Dive Operators Salute, Alan Baskin

Alan,

On behalf of all of the BVI Dive Operators past and present I wish you God's speed. Little can be said other then we do speak of you often and our meetings aren't nearly as animated as they were when you headed up our small group.

I often asked myself how does Alan maintain that upbeat outlook on life? Does anyone know? It truly is a gift and even now facing the inevitable you are as you have always been, up.

The BVI Operators have missed your active presence in the diving community since you sold the biz. You should know we weren't ready to be left on our own without your vision
and imagination.

You will be in our thoughts

With warmest regards,

Joe Giacinto

on behalf of all BVI Dive Operators

Well, what can I say ?

I've been in New York for a year now and not a day goes by without thinking of the countless days we sat at 'the magic castle' and said 'aren't you glad we're not like everyone else ?'.

Lynn and I have read everyone's letter and can relate to each and every one (well, most of them!). I honestly don't know what to say but, I do know that I will miss you.

'Another journey', what a wonderful way to look at it. Yet again, you've taught a Texan a different way. Thank you my good friend and look for me 'down the road' as I'm sure you'll teach me more.

David Mansfield
Lynn Descoteau

See You On The Other Side

Dear Alan:

As the West Indians say, "see you on the other side". Alan, very few people get it...that is...dying is really when you begin to live. I am happy that you have decided to take this moment in your life and show so much dignity, love and honor to all of us that know you.

It is surely the best lesson you could leave with all of us. I am honored that I had the opportunity to know both you and Eva from our "Tortola" days.

I remember my last year on Tortola when there was the "group" and the macrobiotic/vegetarian eating sessions at the Pub . Although I never had the pleasure to be part of it for reasons we all understand, I am happy I was able to lend the space for those special moments. I remember every Thursday coming home after one of those sessions and feeling the residual loving energy left from your heart to heart sessions.

The time I will cherish the most is this past Thanksgiving. I am so glad that you were able to be part of this holiday with me. We all know what it was like as ex-pats to celebrate Thanksgiving on Tortola. Melanie gave me a photo rolodex and in it are pictures from my visit. As I am writing you, I happened to look up at the photos and noticed the one of you and I, which was taken on Mickey's deck, is facing me. My dear, there are no coincidences.

Eva, I know how difficult this must be but I also know how strong, loving and sensible you are. I remember speaking with you at Little Bay and your not wanting to get up and move again. Funny how things turn out.

Eva, I am here for you and if you ever need a loving thought, prayer and some advise just give me a call. I am glad I have met both of you and we all understand that this is not the end it is only the beginning.

When you happen to pass, please stop by and let me know that you have made it. Send me a dream, a memory or sign of some sort...I will get it!

All my love,

Priscilla

Into the Sun

Fare thee well, Alan - the next time I'm at the Last Resort and hear that old familiar call as we monitor the radio, "Baskin in the Sun, Baskin in the Sun," I will smile and quietly say, "He certainly is, he certainly is!"
With Love, Peter and Melinda Merrigan

"The making of friends, who are real friends, is the best token we have of a man's success in life."

- Edward Everett Hale

"Think where man's glory most begins and ends,
And say my glory was I had such friends."

- William Yeats

An Inspiration

Alan & Eva,

Thinking of you both.....I feel so good that I have, in
my lifetime, had the exceptional opportunity to meet you.
You have certainly been an inspiration to me and it is
abundantly clear that you've been an inspiration to so
many others.
I am proud to be in the position to be able to introduce
so many others, in the name of Baskin in the Sun, to the underwater world that you so love.

Thank you.

Gary Fisher
General Manager
Baskin in the Sun

PS - Arch from PADI (ex of St. Croix) asks that I pass
on his heartfelt best wishes.

I don't see how it is possible for you to read all these messages, but in getting to this space I did and I hope you can too so you will see how much you mean to so many and how deeply. It has been a long time since we've seen each other but I can still see Alan's lively eyes shining as we sang out "Oh, what a Beautiful Morning" perched on the edge of the zodiac on our way out to dive. The underwater world both Eva and Alan opened up for me has never been far away and I will treasure the fire they kindled in so many, especially me, to explore and be tested always. I loved knowing that you feel at peace with this time, Alan. There's no other way. Ever thankful to have know you, however briefly, Allyn Billings.

Possibly The Biggest Blow of Our Lives!

It is 4:00 am and I am awake, the bedroom window is only open 2-3 inches high but acts like a wind tunnel. Hurricane Floyd is touching the lives of our Bahamian friends at the moment but is knocking on our doors this very moment. Strange, landfall is not expected until ll:00 am tomorrow morning. I am thankful I can see one lonely star in the sky, a sign he is only dancing with us.

I close the window and marvel at the sheer velocity of the largest and most powerful hurricane to possibly land in the U.S. We are all prepared for this giant blow job....as much as one can be ex[ected.

Alan, I am glad you are resting in a safe haven and know that if you exit with a big bang, that would be not unusual for my mind to accept. Of course we all wish you be at peace and kept safe for many years to come.

I am asking for the prayers of the saints once again to keep us all in mind during this moment of devasation. Some of us have been through this before a few times and even with you. It never gets any easier, but each time we are a little more prepared and for some......a new and dramatic experience that will change their lives forever as it has mine. May God keep Floyd at bay when he passes over our dwellings.

I shall be online as much as humanly possible to keep the lines on communication open for all of our Florida Friends and family.

God Speed,

Lori Ann

Love and Light

Alan,

I am in God's country watching nature at its finest. I bought a home 4 hrs north of San Franciso in a mining town of 350 people. Life is slow to very slow so I have time to reflect a great deal on my life & my friends.
I wanted to share with you my love and appreciate for your lust for life and a joy for living that I have never encountered. I will never forget the moment we met and the feeling that we had known each other forever. Well at least a few life times for sure.
Know that my loving prayers are with you and will continue as you take flight to the next level. I look forward to our next meeting in eternal time & space.

Love,

Linda Levenberg
Better known these days as ROSE.
Much Love & Many Blessings

Floyd... No Pretty Boy

In keeping with the theme of living life to the max... Alan & Eva find Hurricane Floyd breathing down their necks. Their "Magic Castle North" in Miami Beach placed them in a mandatory evacuation area. But don't worry, they've packed up what they need (each other) and relocated to the Northshore Medical Center for hospice care. They even got a cosy private room. Alan appreciates the irony of braving one more raging hurricane... But most of all, he appreciates the outpouring of love and laughter at his website. Keep sharing...
Love,
Roberta Baskin

in the sun

When I was twelve, you opened my eyes to a world that I never knew existed. That underwater paradise will always be a part of me that I can never forget. Nobody will ever forget. Your spirit and your energy lives forever through your family and each and every one of us. I am now a Junior Aerospace Engineering major at the University of Maryland. Today I went for an interview at the Neutral Bouyancy Facility here, one of only two such facilities in the nation. It is used by NASA as well as the University to simulate a zero gravity environment for people and equipment that will be launched into outer space. Without the opportunity that you provided Bob and myself, I may never have become interested in the SCUBA certification required to work there. Thank you Alan, you are and forever will be a truly great man.
Brandon Fitchett

a brief encounter

I didn't really know Alan and Eva. I met them only once or twice accompanied by my friend Lori. But what I remember is a sparkle and joy of life, laughter and openness, generousity. A friendship extended. Alan was like a father to Lori and I heard nothing but about his goodness and support. He will always swim along side those he has touched.

Lisa

Doing it your way!

I have always been a subscriber to the philosophy of 'doing it my way' and truly believe that each day is a gift and anyone who wastes any time on negative or destructive thoughts or actions is a very foolish person indeed. Until I met you I had never known any one else who attacked life with such energy and enthusiasm, bringing joy and happiness to virtually everyone with whom you came into contact and always - 'doing it your way'. You have made of life a great adventure and are admired by all who know you and have had the privelege of sharing even a small part of that adventure with you. I want to thank you for sharing some of who you are and what you believe with me. I am a stronger, happier and hopefully more giving person because of what I learned from you and as you experience this latest adventure, showing us all how it's done by a real class act, I want you to know my prayers are with you and I will be forever gratefull to have had the privelege of knowning you and the honor of having you as a friend. Love, Byron Jones

HELLO ALAN AND EVA! FROM BILL AND SARAH

MONDAY, SEPT 13, 1999

DEAR ALAN AND EVA,

WE HAVE BEEN THINKING ABOUT YOU BOTH EVERYDAY. OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU.

IT SEEMED LIKE JUST YESTERDAY WE WERE AT THE PALACE VISITING IN TORTOLA. WE STAYED YOU KNOW ANOTHER WEEK AFTER VISITING WITH YOU. WE KNEW YOU WERE NOT FEELING WELL WITH THE BACK AND THE STOMACH. BUT HOLY SHIT I DID NOT LEARN ABOUT THE OTHER STUFF UNTIL WE GOT HOME TO TEXAS AND TOM TOLD ME. WOW.

I AM GLAD YOU ARE AT PEACE WITH THIS DAMN THING. THAT MEANS SARAH AND I WILL BE AT PEACE WITH IT. THAT'S SOMETHING I ALWAYS ADMIRED ABOUT YOU. YOU COULD ALWAYS MAKE PEOPLE FEEL GOOD ABOUT THEMSELVES. I WILL TRY TO LEARN FROM THAT AND MAKE MYSELF A BETTER PERSON BECAUSE OF IT. THANKS ALAN.

BY THE WAY WE GOING TO SEND THE PICTURE OF YOU AND I AND EVA ON THE DECK AND YES, YOU HAD YOUR FAMOUS BIG MOUTH OPEN IN THE PHOTO. THE ALAN BASKIN TRADEMARK. IT'S SO NICE TO HEAR THE OUTPOURING OF YOUR FRIENDS. AND YOU'RE RIGHT TAXI CAB DRIVERS IN HAITI SUCK. YOU COULD HAVE RUN OVER BY ONE A LONG TIME AGO AND NOT HAD THE CAHNCE TO HAVE AND MEET SO MANY NICE PEOPLE.

WELL, WE HAD A GREAT TIME AT LITTLE BAY AND SOME GREAT DIVES. I EVEN ATE A BANANA AT 44 FEET ON M 44TH BIRTHDAY. THE DIVE MASTER MADE ME. IT WAS NO BIG DEAL..BUT THE NEXT DAY I MADE HIM EAT AN APPLE. THAT WAS A LITTLE TOUGHER..LONGER CHEWING TIME W/O A BREATH. HAHAHAHAHA!!!!

NO TOO MUCH TO REPORT FROM SAN ANTONIO ND DALLAS...EXCEPT I RESIGNED FROM THE DISCOVERY CHANNEL HOME IMPROVMENT SHOW TODAY. THINGS ARE REALLY FUCKED UP HERE SO I AM MOVING ON. TOO STRESSFUL. AND THE LAST TIME I PUT THAT MUCH STRESS ON MYSELF IT SENT ME TO THE HOSPITAL FOR SOMETIME.
SO FORGET THAT.

ANYWAY, SARAH AND I ARE DOING GREAT, *STILL TRYING TO HAVE A BABY* REMEMBER WHAT YOU SAID TO ME? THAT'S THE FUN PART BILL. YOU BETCHA.

TAKE IT EASY AND LET EVA DO SOME THINGS FOR YOU.

I CALLED AND TALKED TO OUR SON MICHAEL A COUPLE OF TIMES DID HE RELAY THE MESSAGES?

KEEP UP THE SPIRITS AND THE JOURNEY ONLY CONTINUES!

LOVE TO YOU BOTH AND YOUR FAMILY.

HELLO ROBERTA!!!

LOVE,

BILL AND SARAH DOERR

BILLDOERR@AOL.COM
SARAH@AUSCAL.COM

XXXXXOOOOOOOOO

Conversations with God Book III

I just returned from Italy to find that you are getting ready to make the transition out of your Alan Baskin mode, to reunite with your Total Self. A beautiful endeavor for you and something you've done hundreds of times before, but just don't remember. Here's some information about the process from Conversations with God Book III by Neale Donald Walsh. I share it because I think it's what I would want to "remember" if I were in your position.

Q: What happens to the soul after death?
A: What happens is whatever you want to have happen. You create your own reality not only when you are with the body, but when you are away from it. At first you may not realize this, and so you may not be consciously creating your reality. This is no different from how you create what you call reality in your present life. You always have 3 choices: 1) You may allow your uncontrolled thoughts to create the moment. 2) You may allow your creative consciousness to create the moment. 3) You may allow the collective consciousness to create the moment.

In the first moments of what you call the afterlife, on the other hand, you may find it difficult to surrender to the collective consciousness, given all that you are seeing around you, (which may be unbelievable to you), and so you will be tempted to hold to your own individual understandings, whether they serve you or not. However, you will instantly and authomatically be surrounded by beings of high consciousness - and by high consciousness itself. Still, you may not know that you are being so lovingly enveloped; you may not immediately understand. It may, therefore, seem to you as if you are having things "happen" to you; that you are at the whim of whatever fortunes are working at the moment. In truth, you experience the consciousness in which you die...... And of course, hell does not exist.

Just as in this life your next moment is created out of the new understandings you've gained from your last moment, so too, in what you call the afterlife, will you create a new moment from what you've come to know and understand in the old. And one thing you will come to know and understand very quickly is that you are at choice, always, about what you wish to experience. That is because in the afterlife results are instantaneous, and you will not be able to miss the connection between your thoughts about a thing, and the experience those thoughts create. You will understand yourself to be creating your own reality.

The soul responds to, re-creates, the mind's most powerful suggestion, producing that in its experience. Those whose only desire is to know the eternal truth of All That Is, to understand the great mysteries, to experience the grandest reality, do so. Those who make this choice, move into the experience of Oneness at once. It's all a matter of desire, of your choosing, of your creating...

When you reside with the human body, you are experiencing a smaller portion of the whole (a portion of the microcosm). When you reside away from the body in what you call the "spirit world", you have enlarged by quantum leaps your perspective. You will suddenly seem to know everything; be able to be everything. You will have a macroscosmic view of things, allowing you to understand that which you do not now understand.

One of the things you will suddenly become clear is that All That Is, is even greater than the reality you are experiencing. This will fill you at once with awe and anticipation, wonder, excitement, joy and exhilaration, for you will know and understand everything....if you want to experience yourself being one soul, in one place, at one "time" (remember, time does not exist in the realm of the Absolute), you may do that. Yet if you wish to experience your spirit being larger than that, being in more than one place at one "time", you may do that as well. Indeed, you may experience your spirit as being anywhere you wish, any "time." That is because, in thruth, there is only one "time" and one "place", and you are in ALL OF IT, always. You may thus experience any part, or parts, of it you wish, whenever you choose.

Q: Will I ever get to a place of true wisdom?
A: In the time after your "death" you may choose to have every question you ever had naswered - and open yourself to new questions you never dreamed existed. You may choose to experience Oneness with All That Is. And you will have a chance to decide what you wish to be, do, and have next. Do you choose to return to your most recent body? Do you choose to experience life again in human form, but of another kind. Do you choose to remain where you are in the "spirit world", at the level you are then experiencing? Do you choose to go on, go further, in your knowing and experiencing. Do you choose to "lose your identity" altogether and now become part of the Oneness? What do you choose? Always, that is the question. Always, that is the inquiry of the universe. For the universe knows nothing except how to grant your fondest wish, your greatest desire. Indeed, it is doing that every moment, ever day. The difference between you and Me is that you are not consciously aware of this. I am.

End of stuff from the book.

Farewell Alan, until we meet again- knowing of course that you can be anywhere and everywhere all at once, is such a wonderful feeling. Believe it or not, I am closer now to the soul/spirit that was my dog for 13 years, than I ever was when she was playing the role of my dog! I guess it's because I understand so much more now.

Eva, my heart reaches out to you. There will be a physical void when Alan goes, but you will develop a deeper, closer, unbelievable new relationship once you clear the grief and tremendous sense of loss. It will take time. Let yourself experience your own process fully, for there is unexpected beauty within it. But know in your heart that you and Alan cannot ever be separated, and the love you have shared and known will blossom into another dimension, in ways you cannot yet even imagine.

Lots of love and support. Susan Brett-Bernabo

Carpe Diem

Yes Alan, you certainly carpe diemed with the best of them. I know you kind of second hand, through your daughter, Roberta and her husband, Jim.

I've never met you.

But I have never met Jack Kerouac, Neal Cassity, Mark Twain, Albert Einstein, Baba Ram Dass, Buckminster Fuller, Jerry Garcia, Vincent Van Gogh, Miguel de Cervantes, Seng-ts'an, Bob Marley, Antonio Porcia, Schopenhauer, Helen Keller, Lu Yu, Mel Blanc (Bugs Bunny), Mohammad Ali, Stephen Hawking, Francois Truffaut, Jimmy Stewart, Aldous Huxley, Robert Pirsig, Albert Schweitzer, Joseph Cambell, Alan Watts, Lenny Bruce or Jesus Christ either. That doesn't mean my life wasn't shaped by them.
To me you are a mythical personality... a person whose life is lived in such a way as to provide experiencial and experimental buoys on the ocean of life for us... how to say this... more trepidatious sentient beings. I have heard stories about you and your life from Roberta and Jim, some in quiet, hushed tones, but more often than not, with belly laughter and inebriants in hand. I thought and think of you as a Huck Finn for adults.
And my I am impressed with your approach to your new adventure. Certainly in keeping with your character and approach to life. I guess that's as good an example of integrity as I've ever seen.
I will leave you with two quotes...

"I want to know the thoughts of God, all else are just details" - Albert Einstein

"Life is like that, so why not relax? Who can stop us from celebrating?" - Lu Yu

With Kindness,
Jim Schneider
Bethesda, MD

You never know when you make a difference...

Hello Alan, I don't know if you remember me, I worked for BITS for a time after had moved on to bigger and better things. We only spoke a few times when you would come to the shop to pick up mail or visit with people. I wanted to let you know just how much I cherished those talks and how sometimes you can make a difference in someone's life and not even know it. Thank you for the memories my thoughts are with you.

Justin Biggs

This thing in my heart...

Dear Brother,

This thing in my heart...this lump in my throat...this welling up of emotion..of the deepest my precious kind of love for another hujman being..of laughter deep and rich and in celebration of all that life is...of already missing you....missing you more than you will ever understand..or than I can express.

I know that you know all of the things that are in my heart for you....you always have.....you're so wise in that way...in so many ways.

You my dear friend...have lived what I have spent 25 years trying to do..and what I consider my life's mantra..
"Be here now...and love what you have."

These words are so hollow compared to this thing in my heart.

I embrace you with all my love..with all my respect..with all my good thoughts...with all the truth and light that God has gifted to my life. I hold you in my mind..smiling and laughing and healthy...reaching out to the next great adventure....to the next group of friends that get to enjoy your esteemed wit, your contagious laugh and your ability to make everyone feel so special.

There's a verse in the bible that I've had on my mind now for several weeks whenever I think about you, that says, "To have a friend...you must be a friend." God must have been thinking of you when he inspired someone to write that.

You are my friend, Alan...and I am yours...forever.

Please forgive me, Alan, if I didn't always "get it" and sometimes even "got it" all wrong. But, you just have to forgive me for this becasue I think it is often that way when average people are in the presence of greatness... as I was with you.

There was no emotion missing between us, Brother, they were all there in abundance...I think great friendships are supposed to be like that...and while some people may not understand this, I know you do. Thank you for not just allowing me into your life and your heart, but pulling me in and embracing me with that powerful hug you're so famous for...Thank you for ALL the feelings and conversations and ideas and dreams we shared. Thank you even for the smallest and most mundane of moments I experenced with you.

God's richest and most beautiful blessings on you, on Eva and on your family and friends.

Be at Peace

Your brother,

Mallory

PS: Karen and Rachel and Mimi all send their love to you. Rachel and I sat on the bench out in my yard in NC last week and prayed and then held you in our minds and sent you loving messages of adoration and confirmation that I know your heart must have felt. I imagined you sitting next to me...and I cried,(sorry), then Rachel and I laughed after I told her the joke about lassiez faire (sp?)...but not nearly as well as you tell it.

Who could ever tell it as well as you...

diving in tortola

hi alan, my name is susanjoy and i met you while spending 6 weeks on tortola. i was working for an organization called visions international. it was my job to bring the students to your diving classes. i had not been on scuba for 14 years but i was able to dive even so because of the patience and care i recieved from holly, lewis and harry. after my time on tortola i ended up working with holly, lewis and harry on grand cayman island. they are all great spirits and have had a most positive impact on my life. very often they all spoke of your wonderful ways and influence.
your words here are calming and loving of yourself and life. i wish you much peace and grace as you continue to move through these times. many even more fantastic adventures and experiences be there for you when you move on.
In Love and Light...
susanjoy

p.s. i will be visiting with holly and lewis in houston later this month...

Reaching more friends than you would have known

Dear Alan,
Fact is that we talked only a time or two and that I've been too infrequent a customer for you to remember. But I want to take advantage of this Internet link to thank you for the hospitality you created in your shop through your facilities and staff. Your efforts enriched a handful of holidays.
I also want to thank you and your close friends for putting together this site. I suspect you're teaching a lot of us how we might use these new electronic tools to savor moments approaching death's threshold.
Best wishes,
David Henry
New York City

Love from the Dicksons

Dear Alan and Eva'
It's like one word so I have to write it like that
I remember vividly our dive at Ebo Lele when you reintroduced me to diving. You also introduced my children and Mary to the underwater world.
You founded the save the reefs movement in the BVIs and Bruce,Philip,and Curtis put in the first moorings-all your people.
You have been a huge force in my life and in the lives of my family.
I am honored because you asked me to heal you when you needed help.
Alan- you are a HERO! You have infected so many people with your approach to life. There is never an office hours when I( don't say to someone---WOW MAN!!!
Our Love -see you there
Tom & Mary

Chutzpah

You said there were only Two Aluminum Hulled Strikers around, and this one was ours. I just remembered it's name. It speaks of courage doesn't it? (I'm being kind, I believe you said its a Jewish saying....for Balls. It took a lot of Chutzpah to get as far as you have.

QOC

Memories & Treasures

Alan, when I came to work with you and Eva in Tortola as a Divemaster, you no longer went beneath the surface to play with everyone because those days were behind you, but you were faithful to ALWAYS greet the thousands of divers that came from accross the globe to experience Paradise and your love of The Virgin Islands. Every morning you would fly out the door sometimes within minutes to spare of the departing vessel, just to wave to the crowds on aboard Narcossis II, Apachee or the new Striker (whose name I forgot but whose fumes I inhaled when repainting the Logo and Letters in a dry and dusty yard one hot summer day.

Divers came around the world just to experience Baskin in the Sun and the joy of knowing you, Alan and Eva. The success of your business was mostly on repeat business. Divers would return year after year by themselves and in groups of 30, 40 or more. Word of mouth mainly which says a lot about your operation, but you managed to touch thousands of divers every year at the annual D.E.M.A. Convention, through your dynamic Ad's (You hooked me!) and by providing the BEST Dive Resort (Land & Sea packages) in the Industry. Not only was Baskin in the Sun a 5-Star P.A.D.I. Resort, but a 5 Star Quality Organizaton which originated from your hearts. It is with no wonder you have such a great following! You and Eva have touched people where they live, within their hearts and souls.

I miss your laugh, it echos through my mind, especially when my lasso missed the cleat and Vic crashed into the dock. I can see your expression, eyes wide open looking up, hands over your face, just after receiving a HUGE compliment from a fellow diver standing beside you, on our professionalism. :-0 You had to laugh too....we all did and knew it ws really ok.

Alan Baskin....You set the standards for the Dive Industry on how a Dive operation should be, and greeting the boat loads on their returns was part of your requirements to give your guests the rewards of being special.

When I got through hell week and flew off to Florida with Vic, Carol, and E.H., I returned very disappointed that I failed my exam and also arrived with a broken heart. You were there to support me, hug me and send me back the next week to do it again! Broken hearts will mend, and I did move on.....and success did follow, along with a few more broken hearts, but we won't go there...

Would you trust these people to give you the dive of a life time? I did, and I got the ride of my life with two people who are an important link to where I've been and also who I have become. Thanks for your guidance, your fine examples and most of all for your unselfish love.

Faithfully Yours,

P.A.D.I. OWSI #45135
USCG 100T-Master
Virgin Island Radio Marine Operator
KMI Independent Distibutor
The Best Sales PR & Sales Mgr...

Queen of the Sea

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