Charles F. "Rick" Beehner, 69, died peacefully in the home of his devoted caregiver on November 12. Rick was born in Philadelphia, PA. He and his family moved to the Kingston area of New York when he was a young teenager. Rick was the oldest of five boys. After graduating from Kingston High School, he joined the army and was stationed in Germany for several years, where he was trained as an airplane mechanic. Upon moving back to the States, he pursued his passion for airplanes and entered flight school. He then began what would be a long and successful career as an airline pilot, eventually flying 747's all over the world. Rick loved to fly, and never tired of it, working well into his 60's until renal disease sidelined his career. He could tell you anything you wanted to know about any airplane ever built. Rick was also an avid musician. He played the electric guitar and was in a band in his younger years, and owned a recording studio for a time in upstate New York. Rick was proud of being a father to his son, Charlie (Wendy) and his daughter, Kristin (Lucas). He also had a soft spot for his only grandchild, Eli, and enjoyed time spent with him. Rick fully enjoyed his "I am the eldest brother" status, as well, and cherished the relationships he had with his four younger brothers, Bill, Rob, Jim, and Greg, of whom Jim and Greg remain. Rick was known for his sometimes crude sense of humor, his direct nature, and his love for fiery political debate - but also, for his soft heart underneath. He didn't mince words or apologize for who he was, and for that he will be remembered. He will be forever missed by his friends and family members, who loved him dearly, but take peace in the fact that the suffering from his chronic disease and difficult last year has come to an end.

When asked a year ago if he was prepared to die, he said the following: "I have visited every place on this planet I ever wanted to see, and there aren't many countries or cities I haven't been to. I have seen sunrises and sunsets more spectacular than you could even imagine. I've seen and flown around thunderstorms tens of thousands of feet tall. I've seen more beauty than any one man deserved to see. I have lived enough." May he fly high in the skies forever.

A private memorial service will be held by family. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Rick's name to the National Kidney Foundation at www.kidney.org/donation.