By Robbie Culver
His dance is unforgettable, his smile is contagious, and his love of people shines like a beacon!
As you enter the AirVenture grounds near the Bus Park, it is hard to miss Karl Kessler, the dancing security guard at the corner of Waukau and Forest Home. Karl, a resident of Oshkosh, is well known for his energetic smile, outgoing personality, and warm greeting to everyone who passes. In fact, as Karl was being interviewed for this article, he was saying “hello” or “good morning” (or both) to anyone and everyone who passed. Constantly.
“I get to see everybody, and I get to say, ‘Hey,’ greet them. I think I’m one of the first faces of EAA people see. And for me [Karl pauses to say ‘Good morning, y’all’ to folks entering the show], it is so amazing [‘Good morning!’] to see all these different people. A lot of times, me out here dancing, it brings a smile into their faces. [‘Good morning!’] Watching people smile is just a beautiful thing. It makes me happy. This is my seventh year.”
As for how he got involved with AirVenture? Karl said, “I needed a part-time job for the summer. I teach elementary music here in Oshkosh. I just started and fell in love with it. [Another ‘Good morning!’ to attendees walking by.] Are you having fun yet? No? Ah. I hope things get better.”
When I asked Karl if this is his everyday personality just shining through, he replied “This is ADHD at its finest. Yeah, this is me!” But it’s a beautiful thing, Karl.
“Good morning! Y’all heading in? Gate 31!” It’s the nonstop patter, dancing, and his smile that greet you. I asked Karl what he likes best about what he does at AirVenture. “Meeting people. And then when you have the jets going by behind you, it’s like, oh my gosh, yeah. Between meeting the people and hearing the loud jets.
“I live five houses down from the airport. And we’re like, why not be a part of it and get in and see it and experience it? I have grown with my knowledge of airplanes from doing this,” he said.
When Karl talks to first-time visitors, he shares some sage advice after standing at this corner for seven years. “Don’t feel bad if you don’t get to see everything!”
So as you walk in, when you see the man in the yellow shirt, dancing and waving, it’s probably Karl — be sure to stop, say hello, and share a smile.