Vale Ted Lang
All,
For those that haven't heard through the grapevine, ATC royalty in Australia, Edward Roley Roy (Ted) Lang passed away on the eve of the New Year after an all too short illness. Ted didn't want those around him to be upset on his behalf. He opted for quality of life rather than quantity. Those who know him will well recognise this as being one of the core values of the man.
Ted was well known in many fora, familiar to virtually all ATCs across Australia and, through his attendance at many IFATCA conferences, many others across the world. Many of our airborne fraternity may also remember Ted as spokesperson for ATC and Pilot associations during the NAS debate and eventual roll back of NAS2B in Australia.
Ted was responsible for the success of many a trainee over the years through his professionalism and unstinting devotion to the welfare of those entrusted into his care. Whether we reflect on his time within the RAAF, Flight Service or ATC, as a boggy controller or President of the ATC association, Ted will be long remembered and often missed. Even in the last few months he has been raising money to help those who suffer during natural disasters.
Ted wasn't a saint. Who amongst us is? He was however quite simply the gentleman's gentleman. (Thank you for that comment Trunky) He genuinely cared for those around him and did his best to help, despite the burden that often placed upon him. To the end he was working for others. At the last this was for the greatest love of his life, his family. Ted wanted everything in ship shape order for those he left behind.
Ted is survived by his amazing wife Jenny, his son Bray and daughter Amy.
A funeral service will be held at:
Salvation Army
32-54 Hayward Street,
Stafford, Queensland, 4054
on Friday 9 Jan at 11:00am local.
I, like many, feel a great sadness at his passing. For all of us who have benefited from knowing this man I bid him safe journey.
Rest in peace my friend.
DNC