Keith Murakami
My best memories of John Aull will include the many bird watching outings we shared over the years. Mandy may have introduced me to “birding”, but it was her father that turned that introduction into a passion. I really can’t remember any visit to see her father that didn’t include either an early morning or late afternoon of bird watching (or both). Ridley Creek Park, Bombay Hook, Prime Hook, Port Mahon and Little Creek all became as familiar as our backyard. What made birding with John so enjoyable for us was that it was never about numbers or chasing rarities. It was just about being outdoors and seeing what you could see. Every birding day was a good day. John was an excellent birder, but he never made you feel like you were anything less. He was always quick with “That’s a good bird.” whenever we happened to spot something the least bit unusual. John’s passion extended to just about everything that had to do with the outdoors; fly fishing, hunting with his bird dogs, and hiking. I believe he is the reason we never travel without our binoculars and hiking boots. Later in life, I think Mandy returned the favor by introducing her father to the joys of gardening. For John, like everything outdoors, it fit like a glove. We will miss those birding watching outings, but will cherish our memories of time spent with John.
Keith Murakami