Aaron always encouraged me to stretch to new lengths; to try the more difficult move; and to soar. And he always promised to be there as my spotter – even though I outweighed him by almost 30 lbs! What a great friend and athlete.

A funny story for those of you that remember Aaron’s enthusiasm. In 1975, I took a date (who is now my wife of 37 years) to a trampoline competition between the USA and the USSR at South Mountain Arena in South Orange, NJ. As the competitors were announced, there was one member of a Canadian team who walked in under the Canadian flag – Aaron. I said to Cindy, (my date and wife), “Hey, I know that guy, Aaron Johnson – he’s terrific, and he’ll win the competition.” Cindy, who didn’t know me well, just went along with me, commenting politely.

After the competition, which Aaron did win, I said to Cindy, “Come on, let’s go down and see him.” She commented that it was OK, she knew that I really didn’t know him and was just trying to impress her. I told her I was going, and she followed. When I called out to Aaron, he ran over to me and jumped on me – arms around my neck, and legs around my waist. It was thrilling to see him. Of course, I introduced him to Cindy, who has never again doubted my word.

Our time together with the Gymkana troupe has been an integral part of my life, and I have always cherished those years, and the leadership that Dr. Kramer, Dr. Murray, and Aaron taught me. The skills have long been forgotten, but the lessons of good health, strong body, and drug free have made me such a better person.

Peace and love to you, my old friend.

I was just one of the many kids that he mentored and more. I can never thank him enough for being there when I needed him – thanks to him, I can still ride a bike.

Adrian, you are a champ my friend and I promise that everything that happened on tour, stays on tour.

John Merritt