I read this in one of the usenet news groups (misc.news.southasia).

According to US Ambassador to India Frank Wisner, an Indian told
the US embassy he wanted a visa in time for former president
Ronald Reagans funeral.

Somewhat taken aback, our consular officer advised the applicant
that Mr. Reagan is still very much alive, Wisner said.
Im aware of that, came the reply. I would rather wait there
than here, the Indian told the visa officer.

Wisner did not say whether the man eventually got the US visa, an
elusive document coveted by most traveling Indians.