I've run into these athletes and celebrities through the years:
MLB perfect game pitcher
David "Boomer" Wells on a flight from San Diego to Detroit. He boarded the plane with his trophy wife, kids and a huge sack full of
In and Out Burgers (Double Doubles for those of you that know In and Out).
He must have been in training because he only ate two Double Doubles while I watched.
Anyway, he was a nice guy in person. We spoke for a bit about him returning to his hometown to pitch for the Padres. He thought that was pretty cool. He and his family were flying to meet buddy Kirk Gibson and family during the All Star break in MI. Apparently they own some property together. Wells signed a Padres ticket that I had with me from attending the previous nights game.
Jane Seymour (actress) without makeup. Pretty, but easy to miss
Marty Feldman (comedian extraordinaire). There was no missing this guy and his wild eyes!
Elizabeth Shue (actress) Beautiful gal, very petite in size.
Reggie Jackson- Boarding an American flight in Dallas airport in the early 1990's. I asked for his autograph and got it.
Neil Young and his son- I spotted him 5 minutes before boarding my plane with Reggie Jax!
Gordie Howe- In the airport in MN and at my daughter's dance recital last year. My daughter Sadie danced with Gordie's grandson.
Joe Peschi (actor)- Leaving "Goodfellas" Italian restaurant near Saddlebrook, NJ. I think he may be part owner.
Don Mattingly in O'Hare airport over the Christmas holidays with two kids in tow. This was during his playing career with the Yankees.
James Lovell (Astronaut commander of Apollo 13)- At his son's restaurant Lovell's in Lake Forest, IL. Great restaurant! Both James and his son James Jr. signed a coaster for me that features the flight patch from the Apollo 13 crew.
Magic Johnson and Dr. J- Both at airport luggage claim areas. Chatted with both. Magic signed a photo of my son without me even asking. Both guys were awesome.
George W. Bush (US President) and Rush Limbaugh within 5 minutes of each other at the elevator before the last game at Arlington Stadium in 1993. George W. was at the time the then owner of the TX Rangers. He signed twice for me.
Richard Nixon (US President)- Signed an autograph for me at El Adobe Mexican restaurant in San Juan Capistrano where I was having dinner with my family.