Site last updated: Sunday, July 26, 2026

Log In

Reset Password
Butler County's great daily newspaper

Teddy bear has an airport adventure

ROMULUS, Mich. — For Detroit airport employee Steven Laudeman, the mission this week was simple: No teddy bear left behind.

The Southwest Airlines ramp agent learned through social media that the 8-year-old daughter of an old friend lost her stuffed bear named Teddy after flying from Dallas to Detroit Metropolitan Airport.

Eleanor Dewald’s mother, Trish Dewald, put out the word after having no success with the airport’s lost-and-found operation.

Laudeman retraced Eleanor’s steps before his shift began Thursday and found the bear perched atop a garbage can.

He then took Teddy on an adventure — photographed for posterity — into a plane’s cockpit and service vehicle. Teddy also posed with other stuffed animals in a shop.

The Dewalds were thrilled about Teddy’s return and Laudeman’s kindness.

More in Community

Subscribe to our Daily Newsletter

* indicates required
TODAY'S PHOTOS