Today I received the sad news that Dean Foster of African Bundu Safaris passed away this weekend from what is currently believed to be a massive stroke.  I am so very saddened by this news.   

Dean in Namibia March 2012

I first “met” Dean back in 2001 when he/his company responded to an inquiry I had submitted for an African Safari.  Under Dean’s expert guidance I booked a three week tour around South Africa.   Upon my return Dean helped me plan my next trip departing only seven weeks later which was an extended African stay based in Knysna, South Africa.  Dean booked two trips while I was living there and has booked African trips for me every year since; up and including the one I just returned from in November of 2011. 

Dean was not just my booking agent though.  He also became a friend; staying in touch, sending cards on special occasions and sharing thoughts on Facebook and through email.  One year he mailed me a CD of African animal sounds because he wanted to cheer me after I had mentioned I didn’t think I was going to be able to come to Africa that year. 

We joked last year of how darned old we had become:  I turned fifty on June 9^th, he on June 20^th.  Well my friend, you get to stay fifty now and you don’t have to worry about my African trips anymore or anyone else’s.  You get to travel to wherever you want to go and see whatever you want to see from what must be an amazing vantage point. 

Rest in Peace Dean – You cannot be replaced and will never be forgotten.  Today my heart cries for you, your family and friends.