Brian-Fellow History Nut - Friend of Mike Ose

by Brian Sams
(Redwood Falls, MN, USA)

I knew Mike for about 30 years plus, and spent many hours with him as a co-worker, a fellow history buff, and most importantly, as a friend.

Mike touched my life in more ways than I could put in writing, but let's just say they were as numerous as that silly smile Mike wore on so many occasions.

As my wife Darla and I were leaving our property near Leech Lake to return to Redwood Falls for the visitation and funeral, a huge, mature, Bald Eagle flew right in front of us. There must have been something there, because the following poem was the end result. I hope all of the family members that are interested will have a chance to read it. I also hope that it helps others deal with how they are feeling after the loss we have all just suffered.

Eagle's Flight

Today I saw, an Eagle in flight;
It served as a reminder, of a friend who had died.

He darted in front of me, so close I could see;
The color of his eyes, and the talons on his feet.

He appeared as out of nowhere, and as suddenly he was gone;
That sickness in my heart, became evenly as strong.

Was this Eagle a messenger, sent only for me;
Or had he flown around the country, for others to see.

Whatever the reason, this bird made me think;
That there really was no reason, for my heart to sink.


As the mist cleared my eyes, and brought improvement to my sight;
Suddenly he reappeared, much higher in flight.

This time he looked different, he seemed wiser, and free;
The white on his body, for miles I could see.

As he soared in giant circles, above me in the blue;
It reminded me of a lesson, which has always been true.

Our creator put us here, for only a short time;
Not to do what is our will, but for the purpose he finds.

He made us out of ashes, and a handful of dust;
And return to these components, we all know we must.

Much like this majestic Eagle, we can soar into the sky;
We can trust in the Lord's salvation, and never will we die.

We must fight the good fight, while here on this earth;
Travel the full circle, and be given new birth.

As I thought about my friend, and others that I have loved;
The Eagle disappeared, into the heavens up above.

Perhaps this really was, my friend who had died;
Transfigured as an Eagle, joining God at his side.

I feel blessed to have known, many "Eagles" in my life;
And I hope to someday join them, in the blue of the sky.

B. Sams
6/9/09
Dedicated to my friend, Chief Mike Ose, RFPD
Rest in peace my friend, fly free.