Updated 10/6/2024

" Captain Rollin Curtis "Curt" Morehouse, Jr. "

Bushnell, Florida - Captain Rollin Curtis " Curt " Morehouse Jr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 13, 2024, after a courageous battle with Alzheimer's disease. He was 83 years old. Curt's final days were spent in the comfort of his home in Bushnell, Florida, surrounded by his loving wife, Deb Beach, and their cherished dog companion, Norton.
Born on December 2, 1940, to Norma White and Rollin C. Morehouse, Curt grew up in Woodstock, Connecticut, and fondly summered at Lord's Point in Stonington. It was there that he built a life and a home for his family, where his love for the sea and community flourished. Curt was a dedicated volunteer firefighter with the Quiambaug Volunteer Fire Department and served as President of the Lord's Point Association. His passion for the water was evident as he spent countless hours boating, teaching others to sail and waterski.

Curt had a distinguished 37-year career as a USAir airline Pilot, where his skill and professionalism earned him great respect. He also had a hand in the early development of Mason's Island Marina, contributing computer code that continues to serve the business to this day. His love for technology led him to teach himself coding, a pursuit that became one of his many passions.

In addition to his professional and volunteer achievements, Curt was an adventurous spirit. He embraced life's thrills through airplane aerobatics, hang gliding, scuba diving, and barefoot waterskiing. His zest for adventure was matched only by his love for animals. Curt's home was filled with the companionship of pets including a bird named Bernie, a squirrel named Buckwheat, and of course, his loyal dog Norton.

In his retirement years, Curt and Deb relocated to a community on an airfield in Bushnell, Florida, where they enjoyed the tranquility of retirement life and the joy of aviation.

Curt's legacy is one of dedication, adventure, and kindness. He will be deeply missed by his wife, Deb; his children Jack and Amy; stepson: Andy Long; step daughter: Thia Byrnes; his five loving grandchildren; and many friends and community members whose lives he touched. Services will be held in Florida with a final flight ceremony at the Flying W AirRanch in Bushnell.
Updated 10/4/2024

" Captain Joseph Hugh Fife "

July 8, 1942 – June 5, 2024

Captain Joseph Hugh Fife Jr., age 81, of North Fort Myers, FL, passed away on June 5th in his home that he shared with his beloved wife Patricia (Laskowsky) Fife of 32 years. Born in Pittsburgh, PA, to the late Joseph and Frances Fife; loving father of Dawn (Macasek) Shields and her husband, Dan, John Macasek and his wife, Dana; dear grandpa of Eric, Ryan, Colton, Jake and Lani; brother of Bruce Fife and his wife, Jackie, Jan Martin and her husband, Mike, Sandra Pressau and her husband, Marty; brother-in-law of Ed Laskowsky, Andy Laskowsky, Donna Kieswetter and her husband Chuck. Joe is also survived by his many nieces and nephews.

Throughout Joe’s life he followed a path of intellectual and technical excellence. Joe became a licensed Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) mechanic at an early age, graduating from the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics with an associate degree. He put his new certificate to work and was hired initially by Allegheny Airlines as an aircraft mechanic. He went on to further expand his aviation expertise and eventually rose through the pilot ranks and became an Airline Transport Pilot. Joe handed in his wrenches for wings and proudly served with Allegheny Airlines and, eventually, USAirways for 33 years.

Joe’s life was fueled by his passion and love for aviation. He was an avid radio-controlled aircraft builder and flyer investing most years of his life perfecting his ability to craft astonishing works of aviation replicas, models and flying machines. This translated into an amazing ability to go on building several experimental aircraft. He enjoyed flying his creations and being heavily involved in the Experimental Aircraft Association and many other aviation organizations; participating in fly-ins, aviation events and even performing in airshows, flying his home-built aircraft.

Joseph enjoyed giving back to the aviation community by participating in open houses and flying young men and women in the Young Eagles program to help spark interest in potential aviation careers. Joe was always lending a hand to help those around him by sharing his knowledge and skills. He exemplified the epitome of excellence and was a true role model for everyone in the way he treated others and approached every challenge in life.

A Celebration of Life for Joe Fife, was held on June 12th, 2024.
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the Academy of Model Aeronautics, https://www.modelaircraft.org.
Captain Michael Thomas Bedzik Obituary

Michael Thomas Bedzik, born on July 7, 1943, in Baltimore, Maryland, passed away peacefully on September 18, 2024, in Virginia Beach, Virginia, at the age of 81. Michael proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, reaching the rank of Airman First Class.

Following his military service, he had a distinguished career as a Captain for US Airways, where he dedicated 25 years before his retirement. His professional life was marked by his steadfast dedication and exemplary service.

In his personal life, Michael was an avid train collector. He possessed a deep passion for buying, repairing, and selling trains, an interest that brought him immense joy and fulfillment. He greatly enjoyed attending train shows, where he would engage with fellow enthusiasts, sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm for this beloved hobby.

Michael is preceded in death by his mother, Katherine Kuhlman. He leaves behind his loving wife of 55 years, Barbara, who stood by his side through all of life’s seasons. He is also survived by his three sons, Mark, Kevin, and Scott; his sister, Judy; and his brother-in-law, Art. They will all miss him dearly and cherish the memories they created together.

A Memorial Service to honor Michael’s life will be held on Monday, September 30th, at Altmeyer Funeral Home (5033 Rouse Drive, Virginia Beach) at 1 PM, followed by a reception. A private inurnment will take place at Albert G. Horton Memorial Veterans Cemetery in Suffolk, VA at a later date.

Please go to altmeyerfh.com to express condolences, and send flowers to the family.
Updated 9/10/2024

  Robert "Bob" Daniel Knapp of Boca Raton, FL and Silverthorne, CO passed away Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at his home in. Boca Raton surrounded by his children. Bob was born on December 26, 1934 to Clyde and Mary (Clancey) Knapp in Salem, MA. Bob's avid interest in airplanes developed at a very young age and this became readily apparent to all who knew him.

His older sister, Shirley (Knapp) Cervoni, related how he spent hours and hours making model planes, working on plane engines and trying to get them to fly. She said the odor of airplane glue permeated the air both inside and outside home.

Growing up in North Salem during the 1940's and early 1950's, he was called "Gus" by his childhood friends. They attended school together, played baseball together at "The Pit" playground located in Salem's Ward 6 and as a group of young kids from many different backgrounds, they all became legendary in their highly successful careers.

After graduating Salem High in 1952 and a tour of duty in the U.S. Navy, Bob launched and completed his educational requirements to attain his lifelong ambition to become an airline pilot at the Embry Riddle Aeronautical University in Miami, FL where he stayed on as a flight instructor. While in Miami, he met and married his beloved wife, Betty Jo Fisher. They moved to New England and settled in Windham, N.H. where they raised four wonderful children.

Bob became a Captain for Mohawk Airlines which became Allegheny and eventually USAir. As an extremely dedicated and accomplished pilot, he gained the title of Chief Pilot, based at Logan Airport in Boston. He eventually was elevated to the position of Senior Director for Flight Operations for USAir in Pittsburgh, PA. He was highly respected, well liked and recognized for his unmistakable competence while serving the industry he loved.

Having reached the FAA mandatory age of retirement at age 60 in December of 1994, he reluctantly, but proudly retired. Bob and Betty Jo split their retirement years between their homes in Boca Raton and Silverthorne. They enjoyed extensive travel across the globe with family and friends, as well as pursuing their adeptness and love of skiing, hiking and sailing. Bob also made several climbing expeditions to Kathmandu in Nepal and India. He was very proud of summiting Mera Peak in Nepal while in his sixties.

When home in CO, he was a very active member of the community, helping to build the many sets designed by Betty Jo for the Lake Dillon Theater Company productions, volunteering at events and serving as a member on various boards and committees.

Bob's retirement from USAir didn't end his connection to his many friends and colleagues at the airline. Bob was a faithful member of the USAir Soaring Eagles serving as its President in 2013. Bob's beautiful wife Betty Jo (BJ) , served as the Hostess in the hospitality suite during Bob's tenure and stayed on in that position for several years.

Bob is survived by his four children: Robert Knapp and is wife Paula of Wilmington, DE and his children Evan (wife Becky, daughter Emery) and Erica ( fiancé Logan); Gregory Knapp and his wife Susan of Delray Beach, FL and their children Stephanie (husband Scott and children Jack and Liv); Carolyn Knapp; and Lindsey (husband Steve and children Henry and Eleanor). Daughter Dana Knapp and her husband Isaac Gonzalez of Holly Springs, N.C. and her children, Alexandra her husband Evan and daughter, Lucy) and Chloe; and Eric Knapp and his wife of Kenwood, CA. His sister Shirley (Knapp) Cervoni of Salem, MA and many wonderful nieces and nephews. (He was predeceased sadly by his beloved Betty Jo on Nov. 1, 2020.) In lieu of flowers you can donate to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Personal note from Joe Kernan: Bob Knapp was the consummate Airline Captain. Bob and I served together on the USAir Soaring Eagles Board for several years before I succeeded him as President of the group. Bob could not have been more helpful to me after handing over the reigns to me. As stated above, his beautiful wife BJ stayed on as the Hospitality Suite Hostess, and she and Bob lit up the room with their beautiful personalities. I chose the photographs because they depict Bob doing what he loved best beside being a husband and father , being the "Captain".

Those in the group photo are as follows:


Delivery Crew prepares to fly N655US, the "Edwin I. Colodny" home'
L to R: Pat Stevens, Dana Knapp, Captain Bob Knapp, Rose Miller, Jackie Thurman, Connie Counts and Captain Phillip Beeson







Updated 8/21/2024

Captain Lawrence Joseph Vonderschmidt , Jr.

July 17, 1940 –, August 17, 2024

Lawrence Joseph Vonderschmidt, a beloved father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 17, 2024, in Collinsville, Oklahoma. Born on July 17, 1940, in Erlanger, Kentucky, A member of St. Henry Alumni. Lawrence was a cherished member of the Northern Kentucky community, known for his kindness, dedication, and enduring spirit.

Lawrence had a distinguished career in aviation, beginning with Lake Central Airlines, followed by Allegheny Airlines, and culminating with USAir. Throughout his career, he served with honor as a Captain and Check Airman. His dedication to aviation and his role in ensuring the safety and excellence of his colleagues and flights were a testament to his expertise and commitment. His contributions to the field were deeply respected by his peers and colleagues, and provided well for his family.

He is survived by his sons, Trey and Kevin, and his cherished grandchildren, Samantha, Macy, and AJ. Lawrence was also a proud great-grandfather to Stevie and Hayes. He is remembered fondly by his siblings, Vivian and David, and many other family members and friends.

Lawrence was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Louise Gabriel, and his sister, Marcia. Outside of his professional life, Lawrence had a deep passion for recreational flying. He loved to spend his free time in the sky, enjoying the freedom and exhilaration that flying brought him. He also cherished getting together with old colleagues and participating in Quiet Birdman meetings. Whether reminiscing with friends or engaging in these special gatherings, he enjoyed sharing his passion for aviation and the camaraderie that came with it. His legacy is one of compassion, integrity, and joy.

A memorial service to honor Lawrence's life will be held at Blessed Sacrament Church in Fort Mitchell, KY, on (TBA) at 2409 Dixie Highway, Ft. Mitchell, KY 41017. This location holds special significance as it is where Lawrence and Barbara were married nearly 62 years ago. Friends and family are invited to join in celebrating his remarkable life and sharing their memories.

Lawrence Joseph Vonderschmidt will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for his warmth, generosity, and the positive impact he had on everyone he met.
Updated 6/18/2024

Captain Lou Roth


On Sunday, June 23, 2024, Louis Lee Roth from Indian Land, South Carolina passed on. He was born on September 15, 1939 in Covington, Kentucky to Louis Andreas Roth and Margaret Wolff Roth, who both preceded him in death along with his sister Betty Lou Olliges.

Lou graduated from Indiana University and joined the USAir Force as a second lieutenant. He trained as a B-52 pilot and served for five years. He then became a pilot for Braniff International until it closed in 1982. He later flew for Piedmont airlines, which was acquired by USAIR. He retired in 1999.

Lou married Carole Burns in 1962, his lifelong partner, after graduating. They had two children, Louis David Roth (partner Una Tyrell) from Clayton, North Carolina, and Carrie Roth Baker (Kenneth) from Charlotte North Carolina, and three grandchildren, Louis Andreas Roth II from Wilmington, North Carolina, Lauren Elise Roth from Raleigh, and Kenneth William Baker, III (Trey) from Charlotte.

Lou was a tennis player for Indiana University and later developed a passion for golf. He was highly active throughout his entire life and enjoyed tennis, golf, softball, water skiing, wakeboarding, jet skiing and even learned to scuba dive. His love for golf motivated his move in 2001 to Pinehurst, North Carolina where he lived until 2020 when he moved to Sun City Carolina Lakes.

He will be remembered for the heart he shared with his family and his canine companions throughout the years. He truly loved each of them. When his time came, he carried himself with dignity and strength. He will be missed dearly.

In typical Lou fashion, he has donated his body to science and there are no plans for services. To view or sign, click on the Guestbook. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be given Tunnel to Towers Foundation in memory of Lou: t2t.org.

Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayer for Lou and the Roth Family!

Lou flew for Braniff 1967-1982, Piedmont 1982-1990 and USAir/US Airways 1990-1999
Updated 6/18/2024

Captain Richard Allen Lamont
October 27, 1926 - May 26, 2024

Richard Allen Lamont, 97, passed away on May 26, 2024 in Fredericksburg, Virginia. He was born October 27,1926 in Long Branch, NJ to Thomas William Lamont and Lillian May Lamont (née Dangler). He was predeceased by siblings Thomas William Lamont Jr and Dorothy June Lamont (née Lewis, née Douglas) and first wife Ruth O'May Underwood.

Survivors include children Richard Allen Lamont Jr, Patricia Lamont Lasica (Frank) of Spotsylvania, VA and Franklin Thomas Lamont (Skye) of Waynesville, NC. He is also survived by grandchildren Chris Lawson of Dallas, Tx, Jason Lasica (Ashley) of Richmond, VA, Jordan Lasica of Fredericksburg, VA, Rachel Radakovich (Mick) of Raleigh, NC, Emily Hurt (Blake) of Goochland, VA, Katherine Lasica (Kayden Heckaman) of Norfolk, VA, Josh Lamont (Olivia) of Ladysmith, VA, Leo Lamont (Winter) of Richmond, VA, Atlanta Lamont, Amber Lamont, Conner Lamont, Bailey Lamont, Zach Lamont, Isaac Lamont, all of Waynesville, NC, and great granddaughter Emma Dillon Heckaman born on his 97th birthday 10/27/2023. He is also survived by nephew Mark Douglas (Carrie) of San Antonio, TX and niece Caroline Matheson (Joe) of Columbus, GA.

He moved to Fredericksburg, Virginia in 1929 at the age of three to 909 William Street, where his father was the safety engineer of the Sylvanian Industrial Corporation as well as a charter member and chief of the Fredericksburg Volunteer Fire Department in the 1940's.

He joined the military in 1945 and served in the US Air Corp (the precursor to the Air Force) in the reserves from March 1945 to November 1945, when he was honorably discharged. He joined Allegheny Airlines in 1957 before retiring in 1986 as Captain at Reagan National Airport, known then as National Airport.

Following his retirement he was unable to give up his wings and purchased first a sea plane, then a kit built helicopter (which worried all of us if you saw it) and finally an Aerostar, when he reluctantly realized that he was getting a bit long in the tooth for those kinds of toys.

Once his flying days were over he decided to circumnavigate the world and visit far off places and build a nine hole pitch and putt golf course complete with greens and flags on the farm he so loved. The only price of admission to play was a six-pack of beer.

A special thanks to long time family friend, Dona Hall, and aide, Lisa Seglem, who cared for him in his final months. Also, a special thank you to Mary Washington Hospice for their wonderful care and Desired Living Home Care for their support to him and our family in the last few weeks of his life.

Per his wishes, there will be no funeral. He wouldn't want the fuss. His ashes will be spread on his beloved farm on August 24, 2024 with friends and family invited, with a luncheon (location to be determined) afterward. Anyone who would like to be included contact Patty Lasica, 11308 Fawn Lake Pkwy, Spotsylvania, Va 22551 or patty.lasica@gmail.com.

Updated 6/15/2024

Captain George R Hess
January 27,1936 - June 13, 2024

George Hess of Merritt Island, FL passed away peacefully in the care of Health First Hospice on Thursday June 13, 2024 at 4:44pm. George was born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA.

Graduated from Bethel Park High School, PA in 1955. He was a star End on his varsity football team for 4 years. George also ran track and field.

After graduating High School he attended Waynesburg College, PA for 2 years. While attending college he started taking flying lessons at Waynesburg Airport. Because he was going to be drafted, George enlisted into the U. S. Army for 3 years. He wanted to fly in the service, however, the Army had him become an Aircraft Mechanic. His tour of duty included 15 months in Korea.

After the completion of his tour from the Army, he became an Air Traffic Controller where he worked at Dulles International Airport for 4 years and continued his education to get all of his ratings to become a pilot.

In 1967 his dream came true and Allegheny Airlines (later USAir) hired him to fly. George was based in Pittsburgh, PA for 25 years.

He retired from USAir as Captain in 1992. Then George and his wife, Doris started traveling by land and sea in their RV and Boat for numerous years. When they weren't traveling, George was very dedicated to the Cocoa Beach Power Squadron (U. S. Power Squadron) where he was a past Commander. George assisted in teaching safe boating courses starting in 1992 - Present. George was also a member of the Cocoa Beach Sunshine Golf League 1992 - 2023.

George was very active most of his life. He loved to water ski, snow ski, golf, boating, snow mobiling, and softball.

George is survived by his loving wife Doris (Davis) of 65 years and 2 daughters, Kimberly Hess, Colleen Tokarz (Norm), 2 grandsons, Connor McCormick (Megan), Carson McCormick and great granddaughter, Ella McCormick.

He was preceeded in death by his youngest daughter, Tamara Taylor, his brother Kurt Hess and his parents, George and Erna Hess.

A Memorial service will be held at Beckman Williamson Funeral Home in Cocoa Beach, FL on June 29, 2024 at 2pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to the Alzheimer's Foundation.

The family would like to Thank Health First Hospice for their care and support.

"Death leaves a heartache no one can heal. Love leaves memories no one can steal.
Updated 5/18/2024

Captain Roger Lee Hall
February 20, 1938 — May 17, 2024

Captain Roger Lee Hall of Guardian, West Virginia passed away peacefully at his home in Guardian surrounded by his family on Friday, May 17, 2024. Roger, the son and fourth child of the late Walter and Velvie (Carpenter) Hall, was born in Guardian on February 20, 1938. Roger spent his childhood in Webster County and enjoyed hunting and fishing, but his true love was baseball and played on the Webster Springs High School team. After high school, Roger attended Glenville State College where he continued to play baseball for the Pioneers. Throwing an impressive fast ball, he was scouted by both the then Milwaukee Braves and Pittsburgh Pirate farm teams. Roger's love for the game spanned an era from listening to Major League Baseball on the radio to attending a World Series game in 2019.

Always a dedicated worker, Roger spent his summers working in Charleston, West Virginia where he resided after school and worked for Union Carbide; he also returned to Webster and taught school at Lower Lick Run for one year. Later he moved to Virginia and worked for Ammann and Whitney during the construction of Washington's Dulles International Airport, Safeway Food Stores, and as a baggage handler for Eastern Airlines. Roger used these employment opportunities to finance his pursuit of becoming an Airline Pilot. After obtaining his pilot certificates, Roger initially flight instructed for the late State Senator Colgan's flight school and was eventually hired by Allegheny Airlines in April 1966, Allegheny Airlines later became US Airways.

During his time at US Airways, Roger served his fellow pilots for the Air Line Pilots Association as the Captain Representative and Local Executive Chairman in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He also served at the National level for ALPA. Roger was passionate about flying, often saying that he loved every day at work and never had a bad trip. From humble beginnings to walking the streets of Rome, he would remark that it was really a dream come true. Roger retired from US Airways in February of 1998 after nearly 32 years of employment.

Roger's love for aviation extended into his family and he taught two of his sons and two nephews how to fly, currently his grandson Nicholas and granddaughter Kyla are pursuing an aviation career. He even fulfilled his lifetime dream of building a grass airstrip on his property in Guardian. When not flying he was an avid reader, mostly enjoying Westerns. Roger loved spending time with wife, children, grandchildren, his siblings and their families at home in the mountains of West Virginia. Being quite the prankster, he enjoyed loving teasing his nieces and nephews at any opportunity.

Roger was married for 46 years to Margaret "Terri" (Bugeja) Hall. Roger and Terri traveled the world together, from Europe to Australia. Whether by air or sea, they made the best of their adventures. Roger is survived by his wife, Terri, and five children, Roger 2nd (Bonnie), Walter 2nd, Mark, Shandi, and Ashley. Six Grandchildren, Roger 3rd, Nicholas, Kyla, Ayden, Kaileb, and Avery. His sisters Carolyn, Patricia, and Marlene. Roger was preceded in death by his parents Walter and Velvie, his daughter Debra, his two brothers Hollis and Raleigh, and sister Bernice.

Services will be on Saturday, May 25, 2024, at 10:00 AM at the Dodd and Reed Funeral Home in Webster Springs, West Virginia with Pastor Brandon Moll officiating. Interment will be at the Levi M Hall, Jr. Cemetery in Guardian. Friends may join the family for visitation one hour prior to service time, from 9:00 to 10:00 am at the Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be sent to the Kanawha Hospice Care, 1606 Kanawha Blvd., W., Charleston, 25387

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.doddreedfh.com.
Dodd & Reed Funeral Home, Webster Springs is honored to be serving Hall family.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Roger Lee Hall, please visit our flower store.
Updated 5/16/2024

Captain Larry C. Burfield Obituary

Larry Burfield, 85, of Reno, OH died Thursday, May 9, 2024, at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born April 8, 1939, in Marietta, Ohio, the son of the late Lester E. and Florence E. Burfield.

He was a 1957 graduate of Marietta High School, attended Marietta College, and was a veteran of the US Army.

He began working for Allegheny Airlines (later USAir / American Airlines) as an agent. After earning his commercial pilot license and Air Transport ratings, he continued his career with the airline as a pilot. In 1971, he was awarded the nation’s highest civilian air safety honor, the Daedalian award, for his part in helping save lives during an Allegheny Airlines emergency landing. He retired in January 1994 as Captain on the Boeing 737-300. He was a member of the Airline Pilots Association, and the Soaring Eagles, an organization for retired USAir pilots. He was a lifetime member of the NRA and American Legion Post 64.

He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, with a great sense of humor and loved practical jokes. He is survived by his wife of 58 years Peggy, two sons Chris (Tina) of Charlotte, NC and Jason (Maria) of Lynbrook, NY, three grandchildren Thomas Edwin Burfield of Charlotte, NC, Victoria Mae Burfield of New York, NY, and Dylan Joseph Burfield of Lynbrook, NY, brother-in-law and sister-in-law John and Linda Bargeloh of Mineral Wells, WV, two nephews, Deane Burfield of Irving, TX, Todd Burfield of Smyrna, TN, three nieces Leslie (Matt) Wood of Wadsworth, OH, Lisa (Brent) Haynes of Waxhaw, NC and Jill (Mark) Springer of Columbus, OH.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Leonard and Charles (“Chuck”), their wives Helen and Karen, and nephew Mark Burfield.

A memorial visitation will be held at Hadley Funeral Home Reno Chapel (1021 Pike Street) on Tuesday, May 14, from 1 pm to 3 pm, followed immediately by a funeral with chaplain Cara Clegg officiating. Interment will be in the Chapel at the East Lawn Mausoleum in Reno, OH. The family would like to thank the teams at Elison Assisted Living and Amedisys Hospice for their care and support. In lieu of flowers, he requested donations be made to the Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH (www.nationwidechildrens.org) or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, Memphis, TN (www.stjude.org). Online condolences may be made at www.hadleyfh.com.

Updated 3/11/2024

Captain Ron Brethauer

August 19, 1936- March 6, 2024

Captain Ron Brethauer flew west on March 6. 2024. Apparently Ron suffered a heart attack back in November of 2023, and never completely recovered.

Ron was hired by Lake Central Airlines in 1956 for general work in the hangar, and in 1958 was drafted by the United States Air Force where he served until 1962. During his service in the Air Force Ron earned his A&P license. Upon his discharge Ron returned to Lake Central as a mechanic, and in 1966 he transitioned to the cockpit as a pilot. During his career Ron flew the DC3, Nord 262, Convair 580, the DC 9 and the MD 80.

Ron is survived by his wife Lynn who he met when she was a Lake Central Flight Attendant, and their two children, Robert, and Lisa Waugh, and her husband Alwayne.

In accordance with Ron's wishes there will be no services.

Cards of condolence may be sent to:

Lynn Brethauer
306 CR 144 A
Marble Falls, TX 78654

For those who would like to do something in Ron's memory Lynn suggests donations to the Soaring Eagles Save Our Stinson Fund would be something that Ron would like.

S.O.S Fund
C/O Captain Andrew Sliba
6761 Circle Dr.
Fort Myer, Fl. 33905
Updated 2/5/2024

Captain Warren Price, 92, died peacefully Thursday, Jan 25th at his St Andrews Village home in Boothbay Harbor. He was surrounded by his loving family, while his devoted cat, Callie slept at his feet. He was born to Mr. and Mrs. Sidney Millet (Fannie Louise Rier) Price in Woburn, MA on May 6, 1931.

Although raised in Malden, MA, summers were spent on Cape Cod and laid the foundation for his future. Warren first attended Rye Academy (NH) where he learned to fly, and while in NH met his future wife, Jacquie. He later graduated from Tabor Academy where he refined his love of sailing. Despite graduating with a degree in History and Politics, from Northeastern University in Boston, his wife, flying, and sailing remained his enduring life passions.

Shortly after marrying Jacquie, Warren was commissioned an Officer in the U.S. Navy. He became a Flight Instructor in Pensacola, FL before being reassigned to Brunswick Naval Air Station (Maine). From there, in his P2V, he flew North Atlantic Patrol on search and rescue missions, deploying to Newfoundland, Iceland, Greenland, Norway and Morocco, fitting in sailing on the Maine coast when home.

After separating from the Navy, Warren became a commercial airline pilot with Mohawk Airlines in Upstate New York and ended his flying career 25 years later, with USAir in Boston, while living on Cape Cod. Highlights of his aviation career were flying the inaugural flight for USAir to Portland International Jetport, founding the USASA Yacht Club which held annual sailing rendezvous at various ports throughout New England, and receiving special permission to do a “low flight” over Cape Cod on his retirement flight to Boston. This final flight was a thrill to his friends watching from the ground, in his hometown of Brewster, as well as to his family and passengers aboard his jet.

Retirement years allowed Warren to pursue his other passions more fully. Alongside Jacquie, he was an active member of Brewster Baptist Church. One of his many proud accomplishments on Cape Cod was waging and winning a court battle against the state, which helped preserve local boat owners’ rights of harbor access. His wife, growing family, and even the family cats, were able to share in his love for sailing, joining him on sailing cruises everywhere from Cape Cod Bay to Canada, but especially along his beloved Maine coast. A true mariner, Warren could navigate by the stars and even splice his own lines. He enjoyed gunkholing in his sailboat Intrinsic. Warren was especially touched when the Townsend Gut swing bridge, operated by twin brothers Duane and Dwight, opened off schedule to honor his final sailing trip.

With an eye for detail, his lifelong hobbies included woodworking; from wooden boat building and varnishing, constructing boat models and clocks, and carving small decoys, to making and sanding walking sticks, made from small trees scavenged while hiking. His rough and fine finish carpentry skills turned his family houses into beautiful homes, which included the partially finished cottage which Jacquie and he purchased nearly 40 years ago on Ovens Mouth in Boothbay. Three subsequent family generations, as well as friends, continue to enjoy the property to this day.

A courteous and punctual gentleman to the end, his last years were spent in St Andrews Retirement Village where he perfected his story telling, regaling neighbors, staff, Grover’s hardware employees and even the patient mail carriers with many tales of adventure. Upon establishing residence in Maine, they became members of the Congregational Church of Boothbay Harbor. Warren was especially proud of his wife Jacquie, asking the Boothbay Register to interview them regarding their marriage, as a special interest story, for their 67th wedding anniversary.

A grandson said, “he lived an enviable life”. Warren was however, unassuming, and simply wanted to be certain his family and cat were taken care of before he cast off on his last “Big Trip”.

His family extends heartfelt gratitude to the kind staff of St Andrews Retirement Village for their amazing care of Warren in his final years.

He was loved and will be missed by:
• His wife of 69 years, Jacquelyn Flagg Price of Boothbay Harbor, ME
• Daughter Laurie Price Dougherty of Bridgton, ME
• Daughter Luanne Price Weekes (husband Dan) of Alna, ME
• Son Russell Carl Price (wife Irish) of Dallas, TX
• Grandchildren: Ryan Price(Chelsey) Dougherty, Nathan Scott Dougherty, Katelyn Joy Dougherty, Taylor Warren(Hillary) Price
• A plethora of Great Grandchildren and other extended family members
• Calianne, the cat

Predeceased by:
• Son Mark Warren Price (wife Deborah) of Crown Point, NY
• Granddaughter Sarah Kathleen Dougherty
• Sister Marjorie Waters

Donations in Warren’s memory may be made to:
• PALSCatShelterWinthrop.com Mailing address: P.A.L.S. Cat Shelter, 188 Case Rd., Winthrop, ME, 04364 • The Brunswick Naval Aviation Museum bnamuseum.org Mailing address: 179 Admiral Fitch Ave., Brunswick, ME 04011

A gathering in his memory will be held in the main lobby at St Andrews Village on Wednesday, February 7th at 4:30pm. Please bring and share your memories.

A later “Celebration of Life” will be held this summer on Cape Cod. Arrangements are entrusted to Hall Funeral Home and Crematory, 975 Wiscasset Road,Boothbay. Condolences may be shared with the family at hallfuneralhomes.com
Updated 2/1/2024

Captain Michael S. Oakey, 78, of Economy, formerly of Beaver, passed away Monday, January 29, 2024.

Born August 26, 1945 in Las Vegas, NV, he was a son of the late Thomas and Babette Oakey. Mike was a 1963 graduate of Carmel High School, CA, going on to study History and Aerospace Studies at Oregon State where he commissioned as a Second Lieutenant through the ROTC program.

He proudly served in the U.S. Air Force for 12 1/2 years, earning the Distinguished Flying Cross and Air Medal with 4 Oak Leaf Clusters. Following his discharge from the military, Mike began a long career as a pilot, first with Eastern Airlines for 16 years, and then for another 15 with the former USAir, now American Airlines.

After retirement he had moved to Jacksonville, Florida with Martha where they had lived 16 years before returning home to Beaver County. He was an active member of the Vietnam Veterans Chapter 862, VFW, Air Force Association, Distinguished Flying Cross Society, and the Airline Pilots Association.

Mike will be greatly missed by his wife of 29 years, Martha Wolf Oakey; son, John (Kristi) Oakey, and grandchildren, Blake, Brady (Maddie), Trinity, Alivia, Kaleb, and Kinley Oakey. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday February 16, 2024 at Our Lady of the Valley Parish, Saints Peter and Paul Church, 200 Third Street, Beaver, PA 15009, at 11:30am followed by inturnment at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, 1158 Morgan Rd, Bridgeville PA 15017, with Full Military Rites at 2:30pm.

Professional Arrangements have been entrusted to the Noll Funeral Home Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver, PA 15009. Online condolences may be shared at www.nollfuneral.com.

Updated 1/30/2024

" Captain Donald Hoyt Cox, Jr. "

Captain Donald Hoyt Cox, Jr., of Londonderry, NH, passed away on January 24th, 2024, after battling pancreatic cancer. He is survived by his wife, Harriet Read Cox; daughter, Rachel R.W.W. Cox, of Brookline, MA; stepson, Erik K. Robb, of Northwood, NH; sister, Betsey S. Cox-Buteau, of Hollis, NH; and brothers, Stephen W. Cox, of Windham, NH, and Andrew W. Cox, of Englewood, FL.

Don grew up in Topsfield, MA, and graduated from Masconomet Regional High School as part of the class of '69. His aviation journey began at 14 when he started flight training with the Junior Civil Air Patrol at Beverly Airport. He earned his solo pilot's license at 16, setting the stage for his future as an airline pilot.

Following his graduation from Northeastern University in Boston, MA, with a B.S. in Aviation and an A.A. in Meteorology, Don went on to teach flying at Hanscom Air Force Base in Bedford, MA. There, he gained renown for his exceptional instruction; every student he mentored successfully passed their licensing exam on the first attempt.

In the following years, he met and married the love of his life, Harriet Read, and together they relocated to upstate NY where he began flying for Empire Airlines. Amidst the industry's consolidations, he transitioned through various airlines, including Piedmont, US Airways, and American Airlines. Notable career highlights include flying as Captain on the Boeing 757 and 767 on the Boston to Frankfurt, Germany route, and retiring on the Airbus A320.

Don took pride in his membership with the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) and strongly believed in the vital role of unions in enhancing working conditions and safety. During his tenure at Empire Airlines, he became a union representative and actively participated in the merger negotiations with Piedmont Airlines on behalf of his fellow Empire pilots.

In retirement, Don maintained friendships with his retired airline buddies and enjoyed meeting up with them for breakfast every few weeks to connect on flying and personal matters. Additionally, he was a member of the Quiet Birdmen and valued the camaraderie and friendships he made through his Hangar.

In addition to flying “the big planes”, he enjoyed building and flying model airplanes and was a member and past president of the Flying Tigers Model Airplane Club of Londonderry, NH. He enjoyed spending many weekends at the club, frequently observing fellow members demolishing months of meticulous model building efforts in mere seconds.

In addition to his passion for aviation, Don found joy in music, having played guitar and trombone during his youth and maintaining a lifelong love for classic rock and oldies. Alongside Harriet, he explored numerous common interests, including their shared love for travel, which led them to visit various national parks, several European countries, and Egypt together. They both cherished nature and animals, and shared many beloved pets together.

Don has flown west, leaving behind cherished memories and a void that will be deeply felt by all who knew him.

No flowers please. If you would like to do something to honor his memory, please consider a donation to the charity of your choice.

Blue skies and tailwinds Captain
Updated 11/27/2023

Alan Dale Wilson 1932-2023

Alan Dale Wilson passed away peacefully at his home in Reno, Nevada on November 5, 2023 at the age of 91. Fueled by a deep love of family and passion for country, community, airplanes, skiing, tennis, jogging, Steelers football, and chocolate; his was a long life, well lived. A loving husband, father, grandfather, mentor, teacher, community leader and outdoor enthusiast, friends and family remember Alan as a kind, respectful, well-dressed, airman. Always one to step in and get involved, he took pride in making his communities better places to thrive and enjoyed social activities with friends and colleagues.

Alan was born on March 19, 1932 in Pittsburgh, PA to Dr. Arthur D. and Charlotte Fisher Wilson. He grew up in Imperial PA, with his sister Connie Wilson White and brother George Kimball Wilson. After graduating from Findlay High School in 1949 he attended Penn State University and afterwards joined the Air Force. Following basic training, Alan commenced pilot training and quickly became an instructor, a role he enjoyed and took great pride in. It was through his military experiences that he discovered a passionate love of airplanes and flight which propelled him into a lifelong and fulfilling career as a pilot. Upon completion of his military service, Alan relocated to the East coast where he joined the West Virginia Air National Guard and was subsequently hired by Air America. This international experience based him in Thailand where he flew many critical aid missions.

In 1964, he returned home to the States where he began flying with the Pennsylvania Air National Guard before being hired on with Allegheny Air Lines as a commercial pilot. Throughout his military career and work with the National Guard he flew numerous aircraft including the F86 and F102 fighter planes, which he loved. Alan retired from the Air National Guard in 1973.

Airplanes and flying remained Alans work passion throughout his life, but family was his personal priority. In 1967, he married Lana Louy, a United Air Lines flight attendant. This loving and strong partnership would last more than fifty- five years, and their family grew with the addition of Arik in 1969, Jeff in 1970 and Jennifer in 1972, joining Alans daughter Risa from a previous  relationship. This family of six enjoyed many family adventures including ski vacations, trips to air shows, boating and water sports.

Following a trip to visit friends in New Hampshire, the family decided to relocate to Laconia in 1974, where Alan became involved in community matters. He was elected to the town council in 1980 and Mayor in 1982.

In 1983, after many years of commuting from New Hampshire to Boston for his flights, Alan and Lana decided to move the family back to the Pittsburg area where they settled in Sewickley, PA. The children all graduated from High School here and moved on to pursue their lives. Alan retired from flying in 1991 but remained connected to the flying community by joining the retired pilot organization Soaring Eagles. He was elected president of the organization in 1997.

Once retired and empty-nesters, Alan and Lana decided to follow their children across the country to Lake Tahoe where they settled in Incline Village, Nevada. Here he spent his days skiing, hiking, and playing tennis. It was at this time his interest in community connection prompted him to join the Lions Club. He served as President of the North Tahoe club before joining the Reno Host Club and then the Lincoln Hills Club. He was a dedicated member at each club where he made many lasting friendships.

A developing heart condition compelled Alan and Lana to move to Reno, Nevada in 1998. Renos lower elevation was better for his health but also kept them close to family. In 2012, his heart condition prompted another move to Lincoln, CA. They eventually returned to Reno, NV, where Alan would joyfully celebrate his 90th birthday and comfortably live out the remaining year of his life surrounded by family.

Alan was preceded in death by his parents Arthur and Charlotte Wilson, his sister Connie White, his brother George Wilson, and his son-in-law Ken Bell. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Lana, his four children Risa (Randy) Ewert, Arik (Tommie Nored-Black) Wilson, Jeff (Katja Dahl) Wilson and Jennifer Bell, eight grandchildren Matthew (Luz) Ewert, Megan (Adam) Soucy, Payton Black, Devon Wilson, Olive Wilson, Ivy Wilson, Kameron Bell, and Leanah Bell and two great grandchildren Isobel and Valentine Ewert.

A celebration of life is planned for Friday December 15, 2023 at the Wolf Run Golf Club from 2-4pm. In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity that you support in Alan's honor.
Updated 9/12/2023










Captain David Phipps March 5, 1934 - September 11, 2023

I was advised this afternoon that our friend and colleague Captain Dave Phipps flew west this morning after an extended stay at the Senior Living facility in Front Royal Virginia.

Dave had been under hospice care for the last several months, and his wife Beverly reports that he didn't suffer so much, but just slowly declined. Although Dave may not have remembered me, I regret that I didn't make more of an effort to visit with him before he passed.

I had scant biographical information about Dave's career, so I'm sort of winging it as it were. Dave would appreciate that reference, as we used to trade witticisms, and puns.

I tried to capture what little I knew about Dave's career with the images I chose at the beginning of the message. The F 86 Sabre Jet, and the C97 a larger transport category aircraft, which Dave flew before his time at Mohawk. He probably flew more than one aircraft at Mohawk before the Allegheny Merger, where I know he flew the DC9-30 and retired off of the B767.

Dave was a friend, and supporter over the years, and served as the Allegheny Airlines ALPA Safety Committee Chairman, and represented the Pilots of Boston Council 32 for many years as their Chairman. Dave was a staunch advocate for his position on various topics without being disagreeable.

In 1990 I ran for President of the Airline Pilots Association , and although I was unsuccessful , I was honored and proud to have been nominated by Dave Phipps. Dave coined the phrase, " The Candidate In the Plain Brown Wrapper". Thanks Dave.

Rest in Peace, my friend, and my Captain,
Joe

Note:
If anyone has additional information about Dave, please send it to me and I'll publish it.
Updated 8/20/2023


Robert Wiest Obituary

Robert “Bob” Wiest beloved husband of Debbie Wiest. Loving father of Christopher (Shelly), Chad (Jennie), and Adam (Katie) Wiest. Caring grandfather of Caleb, Connor and Clara Wiest. Passed away October 25, 2019, at the age of 73. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life on Saturday, January 11, 2020 at Hodapp Funeral Home 6410 Cincinnati-Dayton Rd. Liberty Twp., OH 45044 from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m.

This notice is almost three years old, but we just received the information from Captain John Nagy. John was looking up his old friend and unfortunately found Bob's obituary.
Updated 8/8/2023


Arthur Hiatt Obituary

Arthur Riley Hiatt born November 20, 1943 passed onto the Golden Runway on August 6, 2023 after fighting cancer for 18 months. He was preceded in death by his father, Chester C. Hiatt, mother, Joanna R. Hiatt, Son Arthur W. Hiatt, Step-Daughter, Keisha Young-Rowe and several Aunts and Uncles.

He is survived by his loving wife, Carol J Young-Hiatt, Dawsonville GA, Daughter Wendy L Hiatt, Indianapolis IN, Sister Peggy J Wellman, Fishers IN, Granddaughter Julia M Hiatt, Chicago IL, Audrey E Hiatt, Indianapolis IN, Grandson Charlie Jay Rowe, Ft Worth, TX and Daughter-in-Law Janet Youngblood-Hiatt, Indianapolis IN.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. Arthur was a retired Airline Pilot and Recipient of the Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award. He retired from US Airways/American Airlines as Captain on the Boeing 767 and a Pro Instructor on the Boeing 757 with Federal Express. He was a member of the Scottish Rite Indianapolis, IN, Gainesville First United Methodist Church, Gainesville GA and graduate of Pennville High School, Pennville IN.

Art was loved and respected by family, friends and colleagues. His final request was please do not share this on social media.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Condolence cards may be sent to:

Carol Young Hiatt
480 Dawson Pointe Parkway
Dawsonville, Ga. 30584

In lieu of flowers donations in Art's memory may be made to:

Pruitt Hospice
2545 Flint Ridge Rd. NE
#110
Gainesville, Ga. 30501

I had occasion to speak with Art several times during his 18 month ordeal. I was impressed with his fighting spirit, and cheerful demeanor throughout his struggle with two cancers. Art actually Flew West twice. He and Carol were able to make a trip to Hawaii before his final trip west, and Carol reports that the trip was a great success.

The smile says it all.

May he Rest in Peace.

Joe
Updated 7/17/2023


In Loving Memory of
John G. Gray
1926 - 2023

Gray, John G. age 96, of Florence, Kentucky passed away on Monday, July 10, 2023. He was born in Erie, Pennsylvania on December 8, 1926 to John G. Gray and Dorothy Gray (nee Garvin).

He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Frances Gray. John is survived by his sons, Chris (Ginger) Gray, Daniel (Yani) Gray, and David (Judy) Gray; stepsons, Geoff (Debbie) Walden and Greg (Sue); grandchildren, Alex (Olivia) Gray, Heidi Gray, Andrew (Allison) Gray, Ellen Gray, Erin, Rob, and Alex; brother, Sam (Yvonne) Gray; former spouse, Carole Johnson; and a host of other family members and friends.

John proudly served in the United States Army Air Corps during World War II. Following discharge from the military, he graduated from the University of Miami. John then graduated from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Upon graduation he flew for several freight companies before joining Lake Central Airlines in the late fifties. Captain Gray retired from USAir around 1986. He was a well respected , and well liked pilot by his fellow employees. Captain Gray has been described as “The Poster Boy for Nice”.

In his free time he enjoyed being outdoors, going camping and hiking. He especially cherished any time spent with his wife, Mary Frances.

Memorial Service will be 11:30 am Friday, July 21, 2023 with a visitation from 10:00 am - 11:30 am at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions - Northern Kentucky Chapel, 4350 Dixie Highway, Erlanger, Kentucky 41018.

Services & Gatherings

Visitation:
Friday, July 21, 2023 from 10:00am to 11:30am
Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions
4350 Dixie Hwy
Erlanger, KY 41018
859-878-1777

Service:
Friday, July 21, 2023 at 11:30am
Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions
4350 Dixie Hwy
Erlanger, KY 41018
859-878-1777

Newcomer - N. Kentucky Chapel (859-878-1777) is assisting the family

Updated 6/18/2023
It is with sense of bitter sweetness that I advise that Captain John J. "Joe" Rahll Flew West June 17, 2023 at 12:30 am after being under hospice care for the last month. During Joe's one hundred one years and eighty eight days on this earth Joe made a significant contribution to the airline (s) through which we came to know him.

His daughter Cookie will be arranging a Celebration of Life later at the Pompano Beach American Legion chapter of which Joe was a member. Those details will be published when available.

Meanwhile cards of condolence may be sent to:
Cookie Rahll
County Rd. 55
1823 Brasher Falls
N.Y. 13613








Updated 5/5/2023
Obituary
David Lee "Dave" Price, long time director of Crew Scheduling for Allegheny/ USAir, and Honorary member of the Soaring Eagles has Flown West.

David Lee Price (84) of New Cumberland, WV., passed away on Thursday, May 4th after battling cancer. He was surrounded by loved ones during his final days, which he was able to spend at home thanks to the wonderful care of Valley Hospice.

David was a U.S. Army Veteran who had a flourishing career in the airlines, then retired to pursue his true passion in the world of horse racing. Beloved by all who knew him, David was a wonderful and caring son, brother, husband, uncle, and above all, an amazing father.

Born on June 13, 1938, to Otto and Mildred Price, David loved the outdoors, his family, and his horses. He is preceded in death by his wife, Susan Seloover-Price and two sisters, Nancy Vorel and MaryLou Kerr.

He is survived by brother Edward Price, his two daughters Lora Price and Holly Price-Jancart, his life-partner Peggy Barber, niece Amie Kerr, nephews Edward Price, Jr., John David Price and Andrew Kerr; four grandchildren, Autumn and Aaron Long, Jacob Seth and Olivia Maquelle Susan Jancart as well as two great grandchildren, Harrison Otto and Harper Jane Long.

A memorial service is being held at a future date to be announced. In lieu of flowers, please offer donations to Trinity United Methodist Church in New Cumberland, WV., to which he regularly donated.

He was known as Uncle Dave by many, and he will be greatly missed, yet live in our hearts, always and forever. His friend and fellow horse enthusiast Butch Schofield commented, "Dave was one of the Good Guys"

Amen to that.
Updated 4/5/2023
Obituary
Anthony (Tony) Robert Garofalo, 84, of Palm Coast, Florida died peacefully with his wife by his side on March 27, 2023. Born in Boston on January 4th, 1939 to Dominic and Conchetta, Tony spent his formative years in Boston’s North End. Upon graduating from high school and serving in the U.S. Navy, Tony went on to enjoy a 30+ year career as a commercial airline pilot, including serving as a Check Pilot for USAir.

Upon retiring to Palm Coast, Florida, Tony and Patte were active members of the Palm Coast Yacht Club where they enjoyed boating and social events. Tony volunteered his time at Advent Flagler Hospital in the Emergency Department. He was also a valued Flagler County Sheriff’s Office volunteer, logging hundreds of hours as the Director of the Citizen’s Observer Patrol and helped build the program to what it is today. He made countless friends and will be remembered for his larger-than-life personality and his love for his wife and beloved dog “Captain.”

In his later years, Tony also enjoyed meeting his friends at the local Elks Club where they shared countless lunches and laughs.

Predeceased by his parents, Dom and Connie Garofalo, Tony is survived by his wife Patte, sister Elizabeth Glasauer and her husband Dr. Franz Glasauer of Buffalo, NY, brother William of Greenacres, FL, daughters Lauren Riccio of Amherst, NH, and Lainie Potter (Christopher) of Robbinsville, NJ, Chelle Zimmerman, Kelle Bridge (Larry), Julie McMullen (Michael), all of Pittsburgh, PA, and thirteen extraordinary grandchildren.

A memorial luncheon will be held to celebrate Tony’s life at The Palm Coast Elks Club on Tuesday, April 11th at 12:00pm.

If you plan on attending the luncheon, please call Patte at 386-503 8888 and let her know as space may be limited.
Updated 3/31/2023
Obituary (Revised)

Norma Eileen Orr

AUGUST 17, 1940 – MARCH 27, 2023

On Monday, March 27, 2023, Norma E. Orr of Fairfax, VA, the beloved wife of Robert M. Orr, devoted mother of Pamela Orr Weaver, Heather Orr Hellier (Andrew) and Robert Orr (Holly), loving grandmother of Amanda, Benjamin, Peyton, Robbie, and Noah, sister of June Councilman Bowen (Gene) and John Councilman and aunt to many nieces and nephews.

Friends may call Thursday, April 13 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Demaine Funeral Home, 10565 Main Street, Fairfax 22030. Mass of Christian Burial to be held Friday, April 14, 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church 8601 Wolftrap Rd SE, Vienna, VA 22182. Internment to follow in Fairfax Memorial

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or the Bob Orr Memorial Fund to Westminster School, 3819 Gallows Road, Annandale, VA 22003.
Updated 3/21/2023
Obituary

Captain Lester Howard Warner was 86 when he met his Savior Jesus Christ on March 17th 2023. Lester died peacefully at home with his loving daughters holding his hand. Born in Croton, Ohio December 14, 1936, Lester was preceded in death by his Parents Howard and Verena Warner. He’s Survivors include Son Randy (Lynn) Warner and family. Daughters Kathy Showalter and family, Shelly ( Jay C) Sutliff, Julie Warner, and grandkids Robbe and Jake Sutliff Brother Larry (Jackie) Warner, Sister Janet (Bill) Mulpas, Brother Delbert (Donna) Warner, Brother Vick (Beth) Warner and Sister Christine (John) Smilde. As well as many other family and friends.

Lester was a farmer for many years before heading to California. While there he learned to fly. He was a flight instructor and flew some charters and started his commercial flying career with Lake Central. He also was a professional photographer. He owned Portrait Arts Studios in Westerville, where he took many senior pictures and weddings. He owned the Sunbury public pool. He eventually retired as Captain from USair. He was a member of Grace Brethren Church, where he meet many friends he called family. Lester loved all things Ohio State Buckeyes, Cincinnati Reds and Bengals. He loved to Golf but treasured the friends he played with more than the game. His most cherished time was spent with his grand children whom he loved beyond measure.

Dad was a snow bird, spending his winters in Bradenton Florida where he also had family, friends and Golf 😊

Lester was a beloved Father, Brother and friend to all who knew him and will be so very missed. Dad was ready to meet his Savior Jesus and was looking forward to the heavenly reunion with those who passed before him.

Friends may call Wednesday March 22 from 12PM to 2PM. Friends may also call from 10AM to 11AM Thursday March 23 at Grace Polaris Church with a funeral ceremony starting at 11AM. A procession to Trenton Cemetery will follow services.

In lieu of flowers please make donations in Lester's memory to Capital City Hospice https://capitalcityhospice.com/donate/

Snyder Funeral Homes, DeVore Chapel is honored to serve the Warner family with funeral arrangements. Please share a memory of Lester or a message of condolence with the family at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Lester, please visit our floral store.
Updated 2/19/2023
Obituary

Linda Lee DeFurio, Age 75 of Maricopa, Arizona passed away on February 9th, 2023 after a yearlong battle with cancer. Born in Waterville, Maine, Linda graduated from Danbury High School, Danbury, CT. Shortly after high school, she began her career in the airline industry with Mohawk Airlines in 1966. During her career, she lived in Upstate New York; Moon Township, PA; West Chester, PA, and Newnan, GA. She spent over 40 years in the airlines as a Flight Attendant, Inflight Supervisor, and Director of Inflight. Her career was a passion of hers and a place where she made lifelong friendships. Linda was a fun and loving person. She spent her retirement as a loving grandmother, enjoying many activities with her grandchildren. She was formerly married to Frank L. DeFurio, Jr. She was predeceased in death by her parents, Walter and Juliette Nightingale; and Sister, Gail Childs. Surviving are her son Anthony (Rachel) DeFurio, step-daughters Lori DeFurio and Sherri (Michael) Ellis; grandsons Conlan DeFurio and Zachary (Rachel) Winters; granddaughters, Lieta DeFurio and Emma Ellis; and brother William Maca. She will be buried at the family grave site in Waterville, Maine, with a cemetery service in June. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, a charity that she donated to for decades. Donations can be made at the following address: https://bit.ly/inmemoryoflinda
Updated 12/26/2022
Obituary

Paul Dean
October 13, 1938 - December 3, 2022

Paul Austin Dean was born in Miami, Florida on October 13, 1938 to Albert Vernon Dean and Doris (Mappin) Dean. He died on December 3, 2022 at the age of 84 in Dallas, Texas. As the son of an Army officer, Paul spent his childhood in a number of different locations, attending high school in Miami and Bremerhaven, West Germany and graduating from Miami Jackson Senior High School in 1956. Following high school, he was granted a congressional appointment as a cadet at the Air Force Academy, from which he graduated in 1961. He was then commissioned as a second lieutenant in the United States Air Force.

As a U.S. Air Force officer, Paul served as a pilot and C-130 commander. He was stationed in various locations, including Georgia, Tennessee, and the Philippines, from which he flew transport missions in and out of Vietnam. Following the end of his Vietnam service in 1967, he was honorably discharged from the Air Force at the rank of Captain. He then moved with his family to Irving, Texas, where he took a position as a commercial pilot with Braniff International Airlines. During his flying career with Braniff, Piedmont, and USAir, he piloted 727, DC-8, and 737 aircraft until his retirement from USAirways in 1998.

Paul was a devoted and loving family man. He married Donna (Hartin) Dean in 1961 and supported her through a long series of illnesses until her death on December 16, 2016. After moving to Irving in 1967, Paul and Donna remained active and beloved members of Plymouth Park United Methodist Church. Paul served as a long time faithful member of the PPUMC chancel choir, volunteering in various roles including choir president and music librarian.

An avid and gifted athlete, Paul loved to play golf, tennis, pool, bowling, and other sports. The father of four boys, he frequently served as head coach for his sons' sports teams and continued to golf with his sons for many years up until his passing.

Paul is survived by three sons, David Austin Dean (Kathy), Michael Allen Dean (Lori), Jeffrey Scott Dean, his brother Richard Dean, his sister Janice Lapean, eight grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Donna, his parents, and his oldest son William Brian Dean who recently passed away in November 2022.

A memorial service was held at 2:00 PM Tuesday, December 20, 2022 at Plymouth Park United Methodist Church in Irving. To view or sign, click on the Guestbook.

Captain Dean was hired by PI October 17, 1983 Copied from the Piedmont Silver Eagles
Updated 12/26/2022
Obituary

Richard C. Cunningham
December 25, 1943 - December 4, 2022

My brother, Dick Cunningham died the morning of 4 December 2022 holding the hand of one of the many dedicated nurses at the Veterans Hospital Tucson, Arizona. Dick was admitted to the VA Hospital on 31 October 2022 for treatment of Covid (The Wuhan Virus).

He recovered from the virus, but it left him with severe pulmonary difficulties. Dick received both Covid Shots and the booster.

My brother was a war veteran who served honorably as a Captain in the United States Airforce during the Vietnam War flying the EC-121 “Warning Star” out of Thailand and Vietnam. He was the Aircraft Commander and leader of the crew, “Dickies Duckies”. He was awarded the USAF Air Medal with four Oak Leaf Clusters for his combat missions.

Dick is survived by his younger brother Jim Cunningham and younger sister Marian Gallagher. Dick’s brother, Robert J. Cunningham passed in 2006. Dick’s father Richard N. Cunningham was a B-17 pilot in World War II and a retired airline captain for USAir. His loving mother Eleanor was a Registered Nurse.

At one time all three of Dick and Eleanor’s sons flew for USAir as airline captains just like their father. Their daughter, Marian also worked for USAir in the freight division based in Boston.

My brother Dick truly died of a broken heart, he never stopped grieving over the loss of his loving wife Diane who passed away in 2019. Diane at one time was a Flight Attendant for Mohawk Airlines which later became USAir.

Richard C Cunningham (Dick) will be laid to rest at American Veterans Cemetery Marana, AZ on 11 January at 10AM. I will miss my brother, but I know he is now in a better place.

May his soul rest for ever in God’s loving peace.

James Cunningham
Updated 12/9/2022
Obituary

James Boyd Sockwell
December 4, 1946 - December 6, 2022

James Boyd Sockwell Jr., 76, of Lake Placid, flew West on his final flight as his solar dock-lit “runway” illuminated the way, with a gorgeous Sunrise at his back on Tuesday morning, December 6, 2022.

James was born on December 4, 1946, in Greensboro, and raised in McLeansville, North Carolina. He was the son of Geneva (Snow) and James Boyd Sockwell, Sr. James (“Jay”) has been a resident of Lake Placid for the past 6 years moving here from Miami (Pinecrest) where he resided for over 38 years.

Jay graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in June of 1969 and was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Air Force on the same day. He served his country with honors as an aircraft commander pilot flying KC-135 tankers and reached the rank of Captain.

After serving his country, Jay started his career as a commercial pilot first with Air Florida, then Piedmont, and retired from US Airways. Throughout his career, Jay flew the B-707 (KC-135), B-720, DC-9, B-737, F-28, B-727, B-757, B-767 both domestic and international as a First Officer and Captain. As a result, he logged approximately 21,000 hours of flight time between 1969 and 2006.

It was a lifelong dream career to be able to soar the skies and travel the world. He was an active member of Christ the King Lutheran Church in South Miami, served on the Fellowship Commission, Foundation, and as an Usher; Associate member at Faith Lutheran in Sebring; American Legion Placid Post 25; Lake Placid Elks Lodge; and the Heartland LakeSharks Parrot Head Club, where they “Party with a Purpose”. Jay loved flying, spending time in the Florida Keys, boating, fishing, touring the United States and countless countries around the world, and watching the beautiful sunsets on Lake Huntley. He loved to be with his family and friends anytime they could get together, especially spending time with his four grandchildren. Jay is survived by the love of his life, Catherine, who he was married to for just short of 52 years, daughters; Laura Raben (Damon), Jennifer Nash (Jason) and grandchildren; Dylan, Ethan, Emily, and Jack.

A service to celebrate Jay’s life will be held January 7, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 11295 SW 57th Avenue, Pinecrest, Fl, 33156. Military honors will be provided by the United States Air Force Honor Guard.

Donations in his memory can be made to Christ the King Lutheran Church, Pinecrest, Fl, Faith Lutheran Church, Sebring, Fl, or the charity of your choice.

To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of James Boyd Sockwell, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

Cards may be sent to:
Mrs. Cathy Sockwell
36 Meadowlake Circle S
Lake Placid, FL 33852
Updated 12/8/2022
Obituary

Louis Daniel Chicoine

Louis Daniel Chicoine "Captain Chic", 77, passed away October 28, 2022 after a courageous battle with cancer. The devoted husband for 52 years to Barbara, the loving father to Mark and Michele, and the adoring grandfather to Cameron and Ashton was an integral part of countless friends’ and family members’ lives.

Dan, born in Somerville, MA on June 17, 1945 to Mildred (Crowley) and Alfred Chicoine, was preceded in death by his four older brothers and one sister. In 1964 he graduated from Somerville High School. At 19, he enlisted to proudly serve our country in the U.S. Army Airborne Infantry where he was based in Okinawa. Dan was a member of the 173rd Airborne Brigade–the first soldiers on the ground in The Vietnam War. After returning from the war, he attended two years of college and went on to learn and teach others how to fly. He spent 35 illustrious years in Aviation, proudly retiring as Captain Chicoine with American Airlines (previously US Airways). “Best job in the world,” he often said.

Dan wrote a book documenting his youth, jump school, and Vietnam. The veteran loved sharing his stories and has entrusted his children to bestow his stories to others. An excerpt from his book–the inspiration behind jumping from an airplane:

The following days and weeks after the assassination of JFK my friends and I would discuss it. We thought it was probably the Russians or the Cubans who killed him and war was sure to follow. During this time one of the older guys from the block was home on leave from the Army. I did not know him well but I saw him a couple of times and I was totally impressed with how he carried himself and how great he looked in his uniform with his Jump Wings on his chest and his 82nd Airborne patch on his left shoulder. I knew right then that when I graduated high school in a few months I would join the Army and jump out of airplanes and maybe someday be as sharp as he was. As graduation approached I was sure I did not want to go to college or go to work. I would join the military as had my four older brothers before me.

Displaying a symbol of pride, Dan wore his Vietnam War hat each day and was honored to strike up conversations with fellow veterans. Leading by example he always took the time to thank a fellow veteran for his or her service to America.

He wrote:
Many years later in 2006, back in the states, Big & Rich, a country singing duo were giving a concert, and they met a 173rd Paratrooper, Sergeant Niles Harris, who was in that battle–Operation Hump. After meeting and talking to this soldier they made a great song about that battle called "The 8th of November”.

In honor of Dan and those who lost their lives in Vietnam, please listen to this song. It was one of Dan's favorites.

Dan was a family man in the truest sense of the word. He adored his wife, children, nieces, nephews and friends. He was also the glue that kept the extended family together. For almost 25 years he organized summer and winter parties that included cookouts, pool tournaments, and water games. He attended every dance recital and sporting event for his children when they were young. He coached, led boy scouts, and put on magic shows and scary masks at birthday parties. He loved being a father to his own two children and being a father figure to many others.

Dan lived his life to the fullest right up until the end. He was adventurous and a risk taker. He picked up golf at age 35 and played consistently. He loved poker and played Texas Hold’em often. He always tried to make everything more interesting by putting a bet on the line. He loved staying active by running, riding his bike, and pumping iron. He caught 32 alligators by their tails; yes you read that right! He went skydiving on his 75th birthday. He loved watching the sunrise, looking at the moon, and seeing the planes flying overhead.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but he will be remembered for his loving heart, generous spirit and his endless adventures and stories. Dan, Captain Chic, Chic, Mr. Chic, Dad and Uncle Danny - We Love You.

HIGH FLIGHT by John Gillespie Magee
Oh! I have slipped the surly bonds of Earth and danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings; Sunward I’ve climbed, and joined the tumbling mirth of sun-split clouds, – and done a hundred things you have not dreamed of – wheeled and soared and swung high in the sunlit silence. Hov’ring there, I’ve chased the shouting wind along, and flung my eager craft through footless halls of air… Up, up the long, delirious burning blue I’ve topped the wind-swept heights with easy grace where never lark, or ever eagle flew –and, while with silent, lifting mind I’ve trod the high untrespassed sanctity of space, Put out my hand, and touched the face of God.

Dan’s Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, November 11, 2022, Veteran’s Day, at the Portsmouth Country Club, 80 Country Club Lane, Greenland, NH.

In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in memory of Dan to support brain cancer research and patient care at: dana-farber.org/gift.
Updated 10/11/2022
Obituary

Steve Peter Javaras
APRIL 7, 1944 – SEPTEMBER 4, 2022

Baptized into the hope of Christ's resurrection on Apri 7, 1944 to parents, Peter and Demetra (Thelma, nee Harper), Javaras. Steve is survived by by his sister, Roxanne (nee Javaras) Shikany. Preceded in death by his sister, Penelope (nee Javaras) Divita and his brothers-in-law, Leo Divita and Charles Shikany. Dearest Uncle of Lori (Kenneth) Aston, Juli (Norman) Bafunno, Vicki (Richard) Strader, Charles (Kristen) Shikany and Diane (Ron) Illium, Darcie (Joseph) Levine and Dawn (Scott) Pfafman. Loving Great-Uncle to Andrea, Elizabeth, Kenny, Cole, Phillip, Anna, Nicholas, Kristina, Kelli, Caroline, Kate, Charlie, Ethan, Alex, Erica, Kennedy, Jax and Ava.

Steve proudly served his country with honor in the United States Army. He attended University in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where he earned his flying credentials. He began his career with Lake Central Airlines which was acquired by Allegheny Airlines which ultimately became U.S. Airways. While at U.S. Airways, Steve attained the rank of Captain, flying for over 30 years. He was in the position of Aeromedical/Human Intervention Coordinator when he retired from U.S. Airways. He loved flying their commercial fleet, especially the Boeing 767, which he flew overseas.

Steve had many fun years of attending the Indianapolis 500 Race with family and friends. He was a member of the Soaring Eagles, an organization of pilots, and enjoyed their monthly lunches often in airplane hangars surrounded by their beloved planes. Steve loved fast cars, including corvettes, and motorcycles. He had more friends than he could count and loved them all including those in Carmel and Indianapolis, Indiana, Naples, Florida and Chicago, Illinois. He didn't know a stranger. Special thanks to George and Beth Coniglio for their love and care. Steve was loved by all who knew him!

Visitation will be on Friday, September 16, 2022 from 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM at Oehler Funeral Home, 2099 Miner St. Des Plaines, IL 60016, followed by the funeral service starting at 10:30 AM at the funeral home. Interment will be at Elmwood Cemetery, 2905 Thatcher Ave. River Grove, IL 60171.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.OehlerFuneralHome.com for the Javaras family.

Updated 8/29/2022
Obituary

Captain James "Jim" Popa

Captain Jim Popa passed away peacefully on Sunday August 28, 2022 in a hospice facility near Mooresville , N.C.

Jim was born on September 28, 1925 and would have celebrated is 97th Birthday this coming September 28th.

Jim was hired by Allegheny Airlines in April of 1955, and spent many years as a Check Pilot/Airman.

Jim's body will be flown to Beaver County Pa. where the family will have a small memorial service in remembrance of Jim's life.

Anyone who ever took a check ride from Jim will know that he was the kind of check airman that went out of his way to make the trainee comfortable and relaxed, in an atmosphere that for many of us was anything but relaxed. Thanks Jim.



In lieu of flowers the family suggest donations to:
The USAir Soaring Eagles
S.O.S Fund
Captain Paul Sturpe
8860 Peninsula Dr.
Terrell N. C. 28682
Updated 8/28/2022
Obituary

"A Perfect Day in the Adirondacks"

Richard Prindle (Deke) Morrison, beloved husband and father, passed away peacefully in his home in Old Forge, NY on Wednesday, August 24th, 2022. Born to William and Gertrude Morrison on October 28th 1929 in Verona, New Jersey, he was 92. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Carol, and his four children, Stephen, Lisa, Tim and Chris, and eight grandchildren.

Deke will be missed for his quick witted and humorous nature. Always looking over the horizon, he traveled north to complete his studies at University of Vermont. There he met his future wife Carol, whom he married in 1955. After college, he went on to join the Navy, and later the Marines as a fighter pilot. By 1960, with a family to provide for, he left the military and landed a position as a pilot for Mohawk Airlines. In 1966, he was based in Utica, NY which found the family living in Old Forge, NY. Living on the lake, Deke bought his first sailboat, which, not knowing how to sail or stop, he promptly rammed into the nearby navigation dock. Many acquire later, he was to become an accomplished yachtsman, sailing the Caribbean and Atlantic coast. He later went on to acquire a number of classic mahogany powerboats, some of which are still in his boathouse today. Winter brought his love of skiing and specifically alpine racing. In 1980 at the Lake Placid Olympic Games, Deke became the starter for the women's alpine events.

Deke had a voracious thirst for adventure that was quenched by multiple far flung wanderings. After retirement from USAir airlines in 1990, he traveled around the globe including trips to Fiji, Africa, the Himalayas, and Patagonia, South America, to name a few. In spite of his international travels, his true love and passions remained strongly centered on his beloved Adirondacks of New York. Eventually Deke got involved with the Antique and Classic Boat Society and with summer resident Paul Hornick, oversaw the success of the Antique Boat Show in Old Forge. An ardent supporter of the arts, he threw his energies into the Old Forge Arts Guild, now known as View. In his later years, Deke discovered his passion for Opera. Wanting to share this passion with others, he founded an annual event called Broadway Meets Opera. Performed at View to this day, it is truly enjoyed by so many in the community.

A memorial service will be held at View in Old Forge, NY on Wednesday, August 31st at 1pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to HASCA(Home Aide Service of the Central Adirondacks, Inc) and View Center for Arts and Culture. Old Forge New York.

Some may wonder why I chose "A perfect day in the Adirondacks" for this obituary. In a conversation with Deke's daughter Lisa she described the day before Deke's peaceful passing as one during which he was hitting golf balls, talking with his friend Ed Stafford about flying, vintage boats and life in general, and then to pass in his sleep the next night. What could be more perfect?
Updated 8/7/2022
Obituary

Roger John Seaman, 90, of Sparta, NJ, passed away peacefully August 4th 2022. Born on April 19th 1932.He served as a Sargent in the Air Force during the Korean War. He was hired in 1956 by Allegheny Airlines/UsAirways. He flew as an International Airline Captain for 36 years.

Roger enjoyed traveling, flying and restoring old aircraft, reading, boating and Socializing with His Family and Friends.

He is preceded in death by His Wife, Emma Lucy Seaman. He is survived by His Son, Roger Kent Seaman (Wife Gamble), Sister Margaret Seaman Schmidt (Husband Ken), Brother John Seaman (Wife Lucy), and Several Nephews and Nieces and Many Friends. He Was a Beloved Father, Husband, Brother, Uncle and Friend and Will be Greatly Missed by All that knew Him and Loved Him. To Honor his Wishes there Will be No Memorial Services on his behalf.

You knew when you picked up a trip with Captain Rog, that you were going to have a good time.

Captain Roger left the following last wishes:
I am writing this out so there will be no misunderstanding at the time of my death !
I do not want to be embalmed !
I want to be cremated as soon as possible !
I do not want remains in an urn ! ( A cardboard box will do fine)
I do not want a church service ! The Lord knows when I'm coming.
I do not want a memorial service at any time ! ( Those that know me, good or bad will remember)
If at all possible, I would like my ashes to be scattered from an aircraft on a pretty day, preferably over a lightly scattered cloud deck ! (over the Pa. Mountains west of Stroudsburg Pa.)
If unable from the aircraft, from a boat in some of the incredible beautiful waters of the Caribbean!
Please try and honor my wishes to the best you can, If it can't be done, don't worry I wont come back to haunt you ! ( I'll get even with you when you get here)
I Loved You all !!!

During Captain Roger's career with Allegheny/USAir he was rated in the following aircraft: DC3, Convair 440/540/580, DC9, B727 as Captain and Engineer, BAC111 (he wanted the rating ) he was number one on the list when he bid the BAC, B737, B757/767, He also obtained a helicopter rating.

Good job Captain Roger, thanks for all the good trips and especially the laughs.
Updated 7/31/2022
Obituary

Martha Klove Embrey (68) of Clifton, VA, beloved wife, loving mother and friend, entered into Gods’ arms on Wednesday, July 6, 2022 surrounded by her family.

She is survived by her husband of almost 40 years Clarence Raymond Embrey III, her daughter Amanda Leigh Embrey and her fiance Chris Elliott, her son John Robert Embrey, her sisters Kathryn Klove and Nancy Klove, her brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law Kathleen Ridgley, Susan and Paul Chase, Wayne and Beverly Embrey and many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and loved ones.

Marha was hired by USAir as a Flight Attendant in 1981 and retired form American Airlines in 2019, She was also a member of the USAir Soaring Eagles having joined in July last year.

Visitation will be Friday evening, July 29, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Fairfax Memorial Funeral Home, 9902 Braddock Road, Fairfax, VA. On Saturday, July 30 a service will be held at Clifton Presbyterian Church at 11 a.m. followed by the burial at 1 p.m. (open to all) at Fairfax Memorial Park and Celebration of Life reception at 2 p.m. in Clifton, VA. In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to the National Brain Tumor Society at www.braintumor.org to help find cures for Glioblastoma or Women Giving Back at www.womengivingback.org where Martha donated her time to help women and children in the area.

This information would have been posted earlier, but it was received after the funeral service.
Updated 7/14/2022
Obituary

John H. Mulvey of Southampton, NJ died, March 30, 2022. Age 83. Beloved husband of Margaret D. (nee Moran). Father of Colleen Biegalski, Shawn Kelly (Lori), Michael Mulvey (Diane) and the late Tim Kelly. Also survived by 9 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. Dear brother of Daniel Mulvey (Carol).

John was a Navy veteran, and was hired by Allegheny Airlines on February 1, 1967. Although his retirement date is unknown he had a distinguished career with Allegheny/USAir during which time he flew the BAC 111, and the DC9. Before coming to Allegheny John flew the DC 3 for Atlantic Richfield. John was also a check airman in the Philadelphia office.

Donations may be made to Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516.

Cards of condolence may be sent to Margaret Mulvey 8 Bridle Path Southampton, N.J. 08088.

John was liked, and respected by his fellow pilots and will be missed.
R. I. P.
Updated 7/13/2022
Obituary

Francis, Gerald “Jerry” A resident of Moon Twp for 60 years passed away on Tuesday, July 12, 2022. Born August 7, 1931 in Cleveland, OH to the late Mona (Keith) and Gerald Francis. Beloved husband of 55 years to Linda Pavlak Francis. Cherished father of Brian (Angie) and Randy (Caryn) Francis. Grandfather of Jet Skylar, Max and Ivy. Brother of Marian Long of Seattle, WA, Julie Crater of Potomac, MD and the late Chaplain Don Francis. Also survived by several nieces and nephews.

Jerry served in the Korean War where he was in Air Traffic Control. He was a pilot for Allegheny/US Airways for 31 years. He was also a seaplane pilot and taught both of his sons to fly. Jerry was also an avid bike rider.

As per Jerry’s wishes, Services and Interment will be Private. Arrangements entrusted to R.D. Copeland Funeral Home, Coraopolis.

Updated 6/22/2022

Jennings R. Backus
Obituary

Jennings Roland Backus, known as “J.R.”, age 88, passed away peacefully in his home in Delray Beach, Florida on Saturday, June 18th, 2022. He was born on September 24, 1933, in Albemarle, North Carolina to Thelma Howard and Charles Furr Rowland. He was married to his wife, Gloria Martinetti Backus for 66 years.

Jennings moved to Washington D.C. with his mother in the 1940’s where he attended private school. After several curriculums in the study of architecture and agriculture, Jennings enlisted into the U.S. Army as a Medic and was stationed in Texas. After an honorable discharge, he moved to Miami, Florida to become certified as a commercial pilot. In Miami, he met Gloria and her son, Dexter Martinetti. They were married in Miami Springs on November 30th, 1956. He completed his degree at the Kendall Flying School in August of 1956 and was hired with Allegheny Airlines in Washington D.C. in 1957. Jennings flew the Douglas DC-3, Curtiss C-46, Martin 202, Convair 440, DC-9 and Boeing 727. Jennings adored his workshop and built a single engine one man airplane in his home garage in Bethesda. He was named “Jim” or “Jimbo “by his flight crew when they learned the actor named, Jim Backus, was the voice for Mr. Magoo and the Millionaire on Gilligan’s Island.

Jennings, Gloria and Dexter resided in Bethesda, Maryland and had two daughters, Patricia Backus Jacobs and Diana Backus Sturdy. In 1971, he moved the family to Clearwater, Florida where he purchased a beautiful deep waterfront home on Island Estates and enjoyed his ski boat, cabin cruiser and Aqua Cat catamaran. He had several fishing adventures and would bring fresh grouper home for a family fish fry. His flight hobby included flying his amphibian airplane which he would land in nearby lakes and acrobatic flights from Miami Opa-Locka Executive Airport.

Jennings completed his Bachelor of Science at Barry University and retired after 35 years of commercial flying, acquired his yacht captain license and purchased a beautiful Taiwanese Teak wood 50’ trawler named “The Saint” to spend winters in Florida and summers in Maryland. He made several lifelong friendships in the boating world. Jennings had success in his real estate investments owning four apartment buildings in North Miami and Hallandale, Florida. One of his life highlights was meeting his two half sisters from Atlanta, Georgia, Shirley Ann Eberhardt and Bonnie Sue Clayton in November of 1992. This reunion brought so much joy and happiness into his world.

Throughout his life, Jennings enjoyed vacations to Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Colorado, Argentina, Chile, Portugal, Spain, Peru and France. He had an extreme affection for Black Labrador Retrievers and was a true animal lover. He was extremely fond of classical music and Fleetwood Mac.
Updated 6/15/2022

Captain Rick Libby passed away May 30, 2022 of a massive stroke. He will be greatly missed by the many that knew him. He served in the US Air Force, started the airlines with Pacific Southwest Airline (PSA) and lived in Encinitas, CA before moving north to Live Oak to follow his passion for agriculture.

PSA was purchased by USAir and later became American Airlines. He retired in March 2003. He flew out of Charlotte, Pittsburgh and Philadelphia and commuted West where he farmed walnuts and raised registered Black Angus cattle until the time of his death.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Jerrie Libby, a son, Michael A. Libby, and a daughter, Michele L. Carlson, all of Live Oak, CA, two grandsons, Matthew and Mitchell Carlson. He is also survived by his a sister, Sandra R. Thorpe of Saratoga, CA.

A celebration of life is being planned for early July at the Marysville Airport, Marysville, CA 95901.
Updated 6/14/2022

Captain Emmett Weber of Longboat Key, Florida passed away on April 21, 2022.

No other information is available at this time.
Updated 6/6/2022

Retired Captain Don Iorio Sr. peacefully passed away on May 12th 2022.

He had a true passion for aviation - starting his career as a pilot with Lake Central Airlines in 1961, he met his wife, Margie, who happened to be a flight attendant.

His son would later follow in his footsteps and began his career with USAir in 1985… like his father, he also married a flight attendant.

Captain Iorio is survived by his wife, son, two grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter. His granddaughter began her aviation career with American Airlines in 2018.

His passion and legacy lives on today and he will be greatly missed by many.
Updated 6/5/2022
Obituary

Captain Jerry Borchin flew west on May 28th after a valiant battle with ALS.

Jerry was born November 4, 1940.

He came to Piedmont January 3, 1983 after his former carrier, Braniff Airlines, went out of business and he flew until his retirement in 1999.

Jerry flew helicopters in Vietnam and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his heroic actions during that conflict.

Jerry’s wife of 42 years, Susan, is planning a celebration of life to be held this fall on a date yet to be determined.

Condolences may be sent to:
Susan Borchin
1887 Royal Lytham Court
Port Orange, FL. 32128

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the ALS ASSOCIATION at Donate.als.org or to the charity of your choice.

Blue skies and tailwinds Jerry

You were the BEST!

This is a copy of the message that Colleen Fields sent out to the Piedmont Silver Eagles, as Captain Borchin was a member of both the Piedmont Silver Eagles, and the USAir Soaring Eagles.
Updated 6/4/2022
Obituary

John "Jack" McCarthy, 89, of Stevensville, MD, passed away on 05/12/2022. He was born to parents Robert W. McCarthy and Alveta McClaskey, on 12/14/1932 in Greece, NY.

Jack worked as a commercial airline pilot for 24 years. Retiring from USAir after 24 years of service as Captain in October of 1988. He continued exercising his passion for all things aviation teaching friends and family to fly, achieving his Airframe & Powerplant certification, building, and restoring his own antique, vintage, and experimental aircraft.

Jack met his future wife Donna Richards at Hyde Field Airport in Clinton, MD. They were married on 9/11/1965 in Waldorf, Maryland at St. Peter's Catholic Church. Together they raised two children: Michael T. McCarthy, Jennifer E. nee McCarthy, Parker.

Jack is survived by his wife Donna McCarthy, son Michael, daughter Jennifer, sons-in-law Michael Polizzi and James Parker, and grandson James Parker II.

The family entrusted Fellows, Helfenbein & Newnam Funeral Home with the arrangements. A private family funeral and internment took place June 1, 2022, at Cheltenham Veterans Cemetery. A gathering celebrating Jack's life will take place on Kent Island with details to follow.

To share condolences online, visit Jack's obituary on Legacy.com. Published by Legacy Remembers on Jun. 2, 2022.
Updated 6/4/2022
Obituary

Captain Dennis Stoops 88, passed away peacefully at home on May 11, after a long battle with cancer. His beloved wife, Eileen, was at his side.

Denny was born in Kalamazoo, Michigan, the son of the late Edward L. and Ethel A. (Hartman) Stoops. He attended Kalamazoo schools and Western Michigan University before being accepted in the U.S. Navy Aviation Cadet Program. He served 11 years as a Naval Aviator. Upon release from the Navy, he joined Mohawk Airlines which evolved into USAIR. He retired from USAIR as an MD-80 Captain.

Throughout his life, Denny enjoyed racing and cruising on his sailboat, “Wind Ensemble,” with family and friends. He was a member of the Jamestown Yacht Club for several years and served as race committee chairman. He was an avid golfer for most of his life, as well as a sports car enthusiast. He was a voracious reader, especially of history. He loved music and was a good dancer.

Denny had many great travel adventures with his wife Eileen. He enjoyed working in and around his house. He was proud of his contributions during the construction of the family home. He had a great sense of humor and a great laugh to go with it.

He was thankful for the many friendships he made in the Navy, airlines, and especially Jamestown.

In addition to his wife, Eileen (Murphy) Stoops, he is survived by his daughters and their spouses, Denise and Kristo Miettinen, Monique and Douglas Gamble, and Meighan Stoops and Benjamin Binstock; his in-laws Kevin and Pamela Murphy, Kathleen Murphy, James and Nancy Murphy, and nieces Alison Ludzinski and Colleen Reynolds. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Matti, Aili Anna, Mauri, Jeanne and Jobim, and great-grandson Olavi.

A celebration of Denny’s life will be held at a later date. Donations in his memory may be made to made to the Jamestown Fire Dept. EMS Division, 50 Narragansett Ave., Jamestown, RI 02835.

Kindly visit www.TheQuinnFuneralHome.com/ for information and online condolences.
Updated 5/4/2022
Obituary

New Durham, NH

Peggy Ann Vivinetto, age 68 of New Durham, passed away on April 12, 2022 at her home. Born in Washington, DC on October 1, 1953, daughter of Roger and Pauline (Leech) Frye.

Peggy was a graduate of Embry Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Florida. There she met John Vivinetto whom she married on Sept 29, 1984 in Burlington, VT. Peggy worked as an Airline Pilot for US Air/ American Airlines for 20 years and enjoyed exploring the world.

After retiring, Peggy enjoyed her life at the lake., spending time with her many pets. She enjoyed sky diving, dog training, gardening and planning Newfie Fun Days for the Newfoundland Club of New England. She was a part of the Maine Coon Cat Club. She will be remembered as a vibrant free spirit, friend to all animals, and a loving wife and aunt.

Survived by her husband of 37 years John Vivinetto, brother-in-law and sister-in-law Anthony and Lisa Vivinetto. Predeceased by her parents

Peggy’s family wishes to extend our sincere thanks to the Mass General Hospital staff. Funeral service will be held on Saturday April 23, 2022, 11am, at St. Katharine Drexel Parish, 40 Hidden Springs Road in Alton. To express condolences, please visit:

www.peasleefuneralhome.com/

In lieu of flower, donation may be given to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place Memphis, TN 38105.
Updated 4/26/2022
Obituary

Col. Richard E. Nelson, III, 72, of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away on Saturday, April 23, 2022 in his home. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday April 27, 2022 at Redemptorist Church, 3333 Broadway, Kansas City, MO 64111. Visitation will be held an hour prior to Mass.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to:
ROA Stars Foundation
1 Constitution Avenue, NE
Washington, DC 20002

Richard was born to Richard and Jane Nelson in Kansas City, MO. He graduated from Rockhurst High School in 1967 and from The University of Kansas in 1971. Following graduation he attended Air Force Officer Training. He returned to Kansas City and flew the C-130. He converted to the A-10 Attack aircraft (Warthog) with the 303 Fighter Squadron and the 442 Fighter Wing. He served as 303rd Squadron Commander, 442nd Operations Commander and Vice Wing Commander. He flew A-10 combat missions in Bosnia. He retired as a Colonel.

Rick served the ROA for many years in many positions. He recently completed two years as the president of the ROA Missouri chapter. During his years with the Air Force Reserves he was a commercial pilot for Braniff Airlines and USAIR.

He is survived by his loving wife, Sharon, and his two children, Richard IV and Lily. In addition he leaves behind siblings, Lief (Patti), Kurt (Barbara), Damien (Michelle), and many cherished nieces and nephews.

He is flirting with the clouds now and will be missed by many.

This is the first of two obituaries that will be published for Captain Nelson The second one will be specific to the Auburn New York services.

2nd Obituary

Col. Richard E. Nelson III, 72 of Auburn, passed away Saturday, April 23, 2022. A native of Kansas City, MO, Richard was born November 7, 1949 son of the late Richard and Jane Nelson. He was a 1967 graduate of Rockhurst High School and also from the University of Kansas in 1971. Following graduation, he attended the Air Force Officer Training. He returned to Kansas City and flew the C-130 then converted to the A10 "Warthog" Attack Aircraft with the 303 Fighter Squadron and the 442 Fighter Wing. He served as the 303rd Squadron Commander, the 442nd Operations Commander and also Vice Wing Commander. He flew the A-10 in combat missions in Bosnia and retired as a Colonel.

Rick served the Reserve Officers Association (ROA) for many years in many positions. He recently completed two years as the president of the ROA Missouri chapter. During his years with the Air Force reserves, he was a commercial pilot for Braniff Airlines and USAir.

Rick had a passion for antique boats in volunteered for the Skaneateles boat show every summer. He eventually served as the president of the Finger Lakes Tire picture of antique and classic boat Society. He also loved his Owasco Lake and champion many efforts to improve the water quality of the lake through O. W. L. A.. between these two organizations, he acquired so many great friends.

He is survived by his loving wife, Sharon; his two children, Richard IV and Lily. In addition, he leaves behind siblings Lief (Patti), Kurt (Barbara), Damien (Michelle); and many cherished nieces and nephews. Rick is now up in his airplane and dancing with the clouds. He will be missed by many.

Friends are invited to join the family for a Mass of Christian Burial to be offered Monday May 2, 2022, at noon in St. Alphonsus Church. Burial with full Military Honors will follow in Lakeview Cemetery, Fleming. Calling hours for Rick will be conducted Sunday from 4 to 8 PM in the White Chapel Funeral Home Inc., 197 South St., Auburn.

Contributions may be made in memory of Rick to the ROA Stars Foundation, 1 Constitution Ave NE, Washington DC 20002.
Updated 3/31/2022
Obituary

Deacon Peter F. Acquaro, February 28, 1948 – March 26, 2022. Peter “Deacon Pete” Acquaro lived a storied life with a deep love for his country, a passion for flying and a relentless work ethic. He is a Vietnam Veteran, retired Air Force Lt Colonel, Nassau County police officer, before becoming an airline pilot with USAir & American. Prior to retiring he served as an FAA inspector & instructor at Farmingdale College. He loved telling stories, cherished time on his boat, traveling & spending time with family. Pete is survived by his wife Kathleen, his sister Lorraine, his children and their spouses, Peter & Lee Ann, Phil & Nickole, Paul & Stacey, and Kerrin & Pete, his grandchildren, Nicholas, Brennan, Quinn, Harrison, Jordan, Caroline & Mackenzie, and his great granchild Hartlee.

I had the opportunity to speak with "Pete" just before he went in to Stonybrook Hospital for the last round of treatments. He was quite an interesting fellow. In addition to all the things listed above, he also flew the NYPD helicopter. He would like the fact that his favorite priest Father Joe will be celebrating his Funeral Mass.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to St. Jude’s Research Hospital or Long Island Cares, Harry Chapin food bank. Please note to send a correspondence to the funeral home so we can forward the donation information to the family.
Branch Funeral Home
551 Route 25A
Miller Place, NY 11764
Updated 3/18/2022
Obituary

On March 14 Captain Robert (Bob) W. Frutchey died peacefully in his sleep at 84 years of age. He suffered from dementia and memory issues for a number of years, but kept his sense of humor all the way to the end. Dad had three loves in his life; his family, being a pilot and spending time in the Rocky Mountains in Colorado.

Bob flew for Allegheny Airlines, and then USAir, for more than 34 years and truly loved his career. After retirement, he flew his own small airplane and helped raise his grandchildren. As a teenager, he worked at a general Store in Drake, Colorado. While he worked in Drake he developed a deep love of the Rocky Mountains, and Rocky Mountain National Park, where he skied and hiked many times all through his 70s.

Sometime between 1955 and when he was hired by Allegheny in 1959 Bob worked at Beacon Field in Alexandria as the lineman where his duties included fueling the fleet of Aeronca Champs, and hand propping them as they were without starters. In that capacity, Bob would have interacted with many men that he would later fly with on the Airline, such as Gordon and Al Stiedel, Abe Friedlander, Ed Slattery, Chubby Kernan, Oley Olsen, and yours truly although some of the older men mentioned here would have been on the Airline for over ten years when Bob was hired they were part of the Beacon Field Fraternity, and would have been acquainted with Bob. Bob and I would frequently discuss the operators of Beacon Field and would fondly remember Harry Lehman, his wife Mary Lou, and his brother-in-law Frank Reid who we referred to as Uncle Frank. Bob's son Mike advises that it was Oley Olsen that gave Bob the application for Allegheny sometime in 1959.

Bob was a kind gentle soul who made friends easily and always had a corny joke at the ready. He was loved by many and will be greatly missed. He is survived by his wife Gwen (Johnson) Frutchey, his two children, Michael (Larisa) & Robin Boggess, and three grandchildren, Michael Boggess, Lindsey Boggess, and Dallen Frutchey.

Visitation will be Thursday March 24th from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Jefferson Funeral Chapel.

Jefferson Funeral Chapel 5755 Castlewellan Drive Alexandria, VA 22315 (703) 971-7400

Cards of condolence may be sent to:
Gwen Frutchey
4602 Fenimore Pl.
Alexandria, Va. 22309

Joe
Updated 3/1/2022
Obituary

Ray T Thomas May 6, 1927 - February 21, 2022 (age 94)

Obituary & Services Tribute Wall

Obituary Ray Theodore Thomas passed away on February 21, 2022 of cancer complications. He was 94 years old.

Ray led a life of adventure. Born in Hillman, MI to Mary Ellen Bouchey and Ray E. Thomas, he was raised on the family farm. Determined to be a pilot from an early age, he joined the Army Air Corps just after WWII. While stationed in Denver, CO, Ray became a licensed airplane mechanic and developed a lifelong passion for downhill skiing. Afterwards he used the GI Bill to attend Purdue University and supplemented his education as a flight instructor. He was hired as a pilot for Lake Central Airlines, which became Allegheny and ultimately USAirways. During his time with Allegheny on a routine flight from Pittsburg to Boston in 1970, the plane he was co-piloting was hijacked. A negotiation allowed all passengers to be released in Philadelphia before the plane continued to Cuba. The event concluded peacefully with no one being injured

Ray was the proud father of 3 children with his first wife and enjoyed many summers at his lake home on Lake Avalon in Hillman, MI. For the last 25 years Ray and his wife Donna lived in Titusville, FL where they enjoyed the local flying community and the Lutheran church.

He is survived by his wife, Donna Thomas; son, Baylen Thomas (Leslie) and his two sons, Ian and Stellan; his daughter, Rayelle Thomas and her children, Tegan, and Trystan. Ray was preceded in death by his son, Jay Thomas and first wife, Gayle Saylor Thomas.

A small service and memorial to celebrate his life will be held at the Good Shepard Lutheran church on Garden Street on March 3, 2022 at 11:00 am in Titusville FL. A second celebration of life will occur on July 10, 2022 at a yet to be determined time and place in Hillman, MI.

end flowers to Ray's family, please visit our Floral Store/

Updated 2/14/2022
Obituary

Stephen L. Szabolscky, 88, of Remington, passed away peacefully, Saturday, February 6, 2021, at Fauquier Hospital, Warrenton.

Steve was born in South Amboy, New Jersey, and at the age of 16, soloed and earned his pilot's license in an Aeronica 7AC Champion airplane his older brother Al taught him to fly. This was the beginning of a lifelong passion for aviation.

At the age of 20, Steve was working at the Ford Motor Company Manufacturing plant in Edison, New Jersey, and dating the love of his life Meg. They married in 1952 and left for Fort Worth, Texas, where he graduated from the American Flyers Flight School. After graduation, they returned to New Jersey and, in January 1953, Steve was drafted into the Korean Conflict and was honorably discharged two years later in January 1955. After his tour, he returned home and making aviation his career, he apprenticed under a certified Airplane Engines (AE) lead mechanic while pursuing his own AE and Aircraft Powerplant (AP) licenses. After earning these licenses, Steve flew for Meteor Air Transport and AAXICO Airlines, flying C-46s and DC-4s.

In 1960, Steve was hired by Allegheny Airlines, which became USAir, and he flew out of Newark, New Jersey, eventually moving the family of five to Virginia in 1970 as he was based in DCA. Steve took an early retirement from USAir in 1987 after 27 years of service. He became and is a member of the "Soaring Eagles" of USAir and he continued to fly light aircraft well into his early 80s from a grass strip at his home while receiving visits from his dearest friends and family from the air and land. He was happiest at his home with his wife Meg, his dogs, cats and birds, and treasuring the moments when family and friends visited.

Steve was always extremely generous with his time and knowledge with family and friends, teaching his wife, Meg, his son, Stephen, and grandson, Abe, to fly a J-3 Cub. Steve soloed his grandson Abe who earned his pilot's license. During his retirement, he stayed active with inspections and annuals on light aircraft. He was an inspiration to others, sharing the knowledge he had learned throughout his life with everyone around him. Not only in flight, he also shared mechanical lessons on vehicles and building radio-controlled airplanes and helicopters.

He also enjoyed spending summer days at gatherings with his family, offering airplane rides to his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, friends and anyone visiting - moments that will forever be etched into the lives of those who knew him. Steve was a passionate storyteller and always had interesting stories to share about some of the passengers he met on his flight trips with USAir, shaking hands with Leonard Nimoy from Star Trek to meeting Roddy McDowall and other cast members from the movie, Planet of the Apes, who were in full makeup when they boarded the airplane and how he was so impressed with their makeup. Steve was a genuine person all of the time and a beacon for so many. His generous, caring, helpful personality affected so many people he encountered.

Steve is survived by his wife of 68 years, Margaret M. Szabolscky; his daughters, Elizabeth West (John) and Suzann Szabolscky; his son, Stephen A. Szabolscky (Cheryl); five grandchildren, Abe, Robby, Paul, Erica and Stephanie, and 10 great-grandchildren, Lauren, Mitchell, Kennedy, Robert, William, Michael, Maya, Kourtney, Eli and Elaina.

A memorial gathering at from 4 to 6 p.m. Saturday, February 27, at Moser Funeral Home in Warrenton. A mass of Christian burial will be offered at Precious Blood Catholic Church, 114 E. Edmondson St., Culpeper, at 10 a.m. Friday, March 5, followed by interment with military honors at the Culpeper National Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to the Remington Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department.
https://www.rvfrd.com//

Condolences may be offered at www.moserfuneralhome.com/

Updated 2/1/2022
Obituary

James T. Weir, 96, of Indiatlantic, FL. formerly of Big Beaver Borough, passed away February 1, 2022.

Jim was born January 14, 1926 in Beaver Falls, PA. to the late Fred T. Weir and Blanche Weir Vosler. He was a pilot with USAir retiring after 30 plus years of service. Jim was also a veteran of WW II, serving in the Navy.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years Peggy Weir, sister Dorothy Thompson, and brothers Dale and Gale Weir.

He is survived by his wife of 16 years, Terri Veil Weir, daughters Barbara Hale, Nancy (Bill) Martin, Cindy (Al Kolmer) Weir, and son Thomas (Doli) Weir; step-sons, Jason (Carla) Veil and Adam Veil; Brother Harold Weir; Brother-in-law Dan Jones; nine grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren, five step-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, and extended family.

A celebration of Jim's life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Jim's honor to St. Jude Children's Research at
www.stjude.org/ or Shriners Hospitals For Children at www.shrinerschildrens.org/

Online condolences may be expressed at www.bowserminich.com/
Updated 1/31/2022
Obituary

LEWISTON - Thomas P. O'Connell Sr., 85, of Wales, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2022, at Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston.

He was born on March 6, 1936, in Derby, Connecticut, the son of Lawrence and Margaret (Hoey) O'Connell. He grew up 15 minutes north of Bridgeport, Connecticut, this is where his love of flying developed at the young age of six years old. When Tom turned 17 and received his driver's license he drove to Bridgeport and received his first flying lesson. That same year he logged enough hours to take his first solo trip in a yellow two-seater Piper J-3 Cub, he later owned an identical model.

Tom attended school in Connecticut and graduated in 1954. On Jan. 23, 1955, in Derby, Connecticut, he married Ann Yezik, they were married for 60 years before her passing in 2015. Tom and Ann took their wedding money and bought their first airplane, it was a Luscombe airplane and at the time he only had 15 hours of logged flight time. Times were different then and Tom taught himself to fly on a grassy strip just outside of Bridgeport.

In 2013 Tom was interviewed for an article in the LA-Magazine, at the time he already logged over 30,000 hours in the air and accrued more than 25,000 flights. He worked his way up the ranks and at 22 he received his commercial license and later became a Certified Flight Instructor. He first started working for Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, among others, and it was here that he was able to visit the weather bureau, study weather patterns, and watch them make weather maps. Tom then went on to co-pilot for Great Lakes Carbon Corporation, Mohawk Airlines, Allegheny Airlines, USAir Airlines, and American Airlines. Within four years of being a co-pilot he became a captain, he remained in this position until his retirement on Dec. 31, 1993. He loved to tell everyone he met that after his retirement he spent two seasons flying floats for Taquan Air in Ketchikan, Alaska

During his years as a pilot, he worked at LaGuardia and Logan airports before moving north to New Hampshire, and then to his home in Wales in 1979. After moving to Maine, he began chartering flights, including some of Maine's political members, for Twin Cities Air Service out of the Lewiston/Auburn Airport. After his retirement he worked at Twitchell's Airport and Seaplane Base in Turner where he charted flights and gave flying lessons to hundreds of pilots and prospective pilots.

Tom will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and the entire flying community. He is survived by his daughter, Kathleen O'Connell of Wales, his son, Thomas O'Connell, Jr. and wife Michelle of Wales, four grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, his brothers, Dan O'Connell and his partner Chris of North Carolina, and Edward O'Connell of Florida, and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, and his wife, Ann O'Connell. Messages of condolence may be sent to: http://www.finleyfuneralhome.com funeral service will be held at 1 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 25, 2022, at the Lewiston/Auburn Airport Hanger, Corner of Aviation Avenue and Flightline Drive, Auburn, Maine. The service may also be viewed LIVE at https://www.facebook.com/FINLEYFUNERALHOME. Arrangements by BRAGDON~FINLEY FUNERAL HOME, 707 Main Street, Monmouth, Maine. Interment will be held in the spring at East Wales Cemetery, East Road, Wales, Maine.
Updated 1/17/2022
Obituary

It is with a profound sense of sadness that I report the passing of my friend and Honorary Soaring Eagles Member General Charles McGee. On the bright side, he died peacefully in his sleep as one would wish to do. He did much to advance civil rights in this Country without flamboyance and bluster.

Rest In Peace General

BETHESDA, Md. (7News DC) - Iconic Tuskegee Airman and Brigadier General Charles E. McGee passed away Sunday at the age of 102. In a statement, McGee's family said the general died peacefully in his sleep Sunday morning. The Bethesda native was the oldest living Tuskegee Airman pilot.

READ MORE - Oldest living Tuskegee Airman pilot celebrates 102nd birthday "He had his right hand over his heart and was smiling serenely," said his youngest daughter said in a statement. "He was a wonderful human being I feel proud and privileged to be called his son," Ron McGee, the general's son said.

Tuskegee airman Charles McGee, 100, salutes as his great grandson Iain Lanphier looks as President Donald Trump delivers his State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress on Capitol Hill in Washington, Tuesday, Feb. 4, 2020. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)

Born Dec. 7, 1919, he was one of only a handful of Tuskegee Airmen pilots remaining who flew air combat missions in World War II.

Throughout his flying career, he successfully completed 409 air combat missions across three wars -- WWII, Korea, Vietnam -- serving 30 years of active duty. McGee is one of the most decorated and accomplished of the famed aviation fleet.

SEE ALSO - Air Force Chief of Staff named honorary Tuskegee Airman His mantra, the Four Ps, "Perceive, Prepare, Perform, and Persevere" has become a staple among the many lives he touched.

McGee is survived by his oldest daughter, Charlene McGee Smith, his son, Ronald McGee, his youngest daughter Yvonne McGee, 10 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

Joe
Updated 12/30/2021
Obituary
Capt. Stephen Haile Bradford 09/11/1953 - 12/27/2021

Stephen Haile Bradford was born September 11, 1953, in New Bedford, Massachusetts, to George Leroy Bradford and Alice Buckingham Bradford. The family later moved to Michigan City, Indiana, where he spent most of his childhood. Stephen graduated from Western Michigan University with a degree in Aviation, and later earned a Masters degree in Commercial Aviation from Delta State University.

Steve Bradford was a Professional Airline Captain with a 30 year history of demonstrated success in leadership positions. He was a founding father and first president of the US Airline Pilots Association. In his professional positions, Captain Bradford established and maintained the highest professional standards for his crew and his union, especially during turbulent periods of management/labor negotiations. Captain Bradford was responsible for ensuring the timely, safe and efficient integration of three airline pilot groups during a merger that created the largest airline in the world, American Airlines.

He died suddenly, December 27, 2021, in his McMurray, PA home. He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Sally, their two children, Daniel and Emily, and his three sisters, Judith Druener (Ronald) of Panama City, FL, Alexa Bradford (Delton Simmons) of Santa Fe, NM, and Elizabeth Bradford of Seattle, WA..

Captain Bradford was very helpful in getting the USAPA Board to submit an Amicus Brief during our struggle with the PBGC.
Updated 11/22/2021
Obituary

Henry Patteson Nash, 91, of Fredericksburg, Virginia, passed away on November 19, 2021, surrounded by his loving family. He was born to parents Martha (nee Mohler) and Samuel A. Nash on July 12, 1930 in Richmond, Virginia and graduated from Central High School in Washington, D.C. in 1948.

During his lifetime, Henry married three times: to Carolyn (nee Tolar), 1948; to Frances (nee Murphy) 1963; to Betty (nee Spicer) 2001, all now deceased. In 1951, Henry was hired by All American Airways as a flight agent, serving as a cabin attendant and very soon after, began taking flying lessons. In 1954, he was hired as a copilot in Washington, D.C. and became a captain in 1957.

During his 40-year aviation career, Henry instructed new copilots and captains, was a designated check airman and retired as Chief Pilot (DCA) in 1990. All American Airways became Allegheny Airlines, then USAir, before he retired from the company he served with pride, during which the industry changed from piston airliners to the modern age of jet travel. Known for his generosity and kind spirit, Henry was a mentor to many aviators and nothing pleased him more than spending time with his family, many friends and beloved pets.

Henry's son Matthew, his son-in-law Eric Litt, his grandson Aaron Litt, and his granddaughter's husband Fabian Johnson are all commercial pilots like their mentor Captain Henry.

Henry is survived by his six children: Lynda Silverstrand, Janice Litt, Nancy Eubank, Marta Burklin, Matthew Nash and Melissa Nash-Long and 13 of 14 grand children and seven great grandchildren. Memorial services to be announced.

The photo of Captain Henry and his son Matthew was taken in 1989. When additional information is available it will be published promptly.
Updated 11/1/2021
Obituary

James ("Jim") Gerard Garry, 87, of Naples, Florida passed away peacefully on the evening of October 16, 2021 with his loving wife, Suzanne, by his side. Jim was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts on January 4, 1934 to Elizabeth (Shea) and Martin Garry.

A good student, he graduated from St. John's High School in Cambridge in 1951 and received his FAA A&P license from East Coast Aero Tech in 1952. He worked for Northeast Airlines as an A&P mechanic until he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in February 1953. While in the Air Force he was based in New Hampshire until 1956 when he transferred to Charleston Air Force Base. He was released from active service as a Staff Sergeant on February 3, 1957

To pursue his love of flying, Jim started work in 1957 for Raytheon Technologies Corporation as an A&P mechanic where he received his commercial and multi-engine licenses, and his F-27 type and DC-3 type ratings. In July 1963, he was hired as a co-pilot by Mohawk Airlines, based in Utica, New York. Jim was promoted to Captain at then-Allegheny Airlines in 1972. Allegheny was the forerunner to USAir/US Airways, and Jim enjoyed flying for the company as a Captain until he retired in January 1994, logging over 30,000 hours. His career culminated in flying international flights on a Boeing 767. In his retirement, he continued flying as a private pilot for Health Management Associates, in Naples, Florida, until January 2005.

Jim was a long-time resident of Pelican Bay in Naples, Florida, having moved to Naples in 1981. In the 1980s, he and his wife operated the Kangaroo Klub children's store. Jim loved his family, the great sunsets in Naples, summers in Wells, Maine and New England sports teams; he enjoyed golf and tennis too. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Martin and Elizabeth, brother and sister-in-law Martin and Mary (Burke) Garry, sister and brother-in-law Mary (Garry) and Bob Molloy, brother-in-law John Finch, and infant son James Garry.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Suzanne (Prince) Garry, sister Betty Finch, sister and brother-in-law Joan and George Stewart, daughter Kathy Galvin, son and daughter-in-law Kevin and Susan (Peck) Garry, daughter and son-in-law Kristen Garry and Robert Rudnick, son and daughter-in-law Shaun and Amy (Dalen) Garry, six grandchildren, Jessica Galvin, Allison Galvin, Ryan Garry, Erin Garry, Aria Garry, and Aidan Garry, and many nieces and nephews.

The funeral will take place at Saint William Catholic Church at 601 Seagate Drive, Naples, FL at 9:45am on Friday, November 5th. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Jim's name to St. Matthew's House (stmatthewshouse.org). Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hodgesfhatnaplesmg.com for the Garry family.
Updated 9/3/2021
Obituary
John M. Webber April 13, 1943 - August 31st 2021

John M Webber of New Port Richey FL passed away suddenly on August 31st, 2021. He is survived by his loving wife Kathy, son Grant; daughter Karen Stromberg; grandchildren, Elizabeth and Griffin; his beloved niece Caroline Webber, and nephew Andy Webber; as well as numerous cousins.

John was a commercial pilot for 34 years, beginning his flying career at Shelbyville County Airport in Indiana while attending Indiana University in Bloomington IN. He worked to earn his private and multi-engine ratings after which his friend and soon-to-be flight instructor, Roger Newman, was instrumental in helping John secure his job at Lake Central Airlines, launching a career that would span 34 years. At Lake Central he met his best friend Steve Javaras, beginning a friendship that has lasted 55 years.

John's career included time as First Officer, Flight Engineer, Captain, Check Airman, and Simulator Instructor. John loved flying and always said he never went to work a day in his life. Throughout his career John was the ultimate professional who approached every task with an outstanding work ethic taking pride in helping train other pilots to the same high standards he held. In his personal life he always was a kind, generous, loving man who is gone too soon.

John is especially proud of his son Grant, who is now serving in the US Navy.

John, your wings were ready, but our hearts were not...
Updated 8/27/2021

Obituary for Eugene "Gene" J. Schumacher
An Eagle Flies West
06/04/1937 - 08/24/2021

Captain Eugene "Gene" J. Schumacher (Retired USAir) Flew West as he joined the LORD on August 24, 2021. He passed peacefully at home and was cared for by his loving wife Maureen, in Columbus, Ohio. He was born in Springfield, Minnesota to John Charles and Elvera Marie (Schunk) Schumacher on June 4, 1937. Gene was an only child and worked the family farm with his parents. He attended both the one room school house through 8th grade, then one year at St. Raphael Catholic School and the last two at Springfield High School. He graduated from Springfield High in 1955 and was a member of the Future Farmers of America and was active in the agricultural field.

Gene always had an interest in Aviation and at 10 years old, while at the Brown County Fair, there was a pilot giving airplanes rides. His Father John and he took a ride in the Ercoupe. That was the spark and Gene was destined to be a lifelong aviator. He took flying lessons from his mentor Aurie Lowinske at the original grass strip airport in Springfield, MN, while continuing farming and eventually took a summer job at the canning plant for Del Monte. His desire for aviation never faltered, as he worked at the airport for flight time and on September 17, 1957 at 17 he completed his first Solo Flight in a Vagabond aircraft in Springfield. That same day he began an apprenticeship as an aircraft mechanic with Leo Beck, fellow aviator/mechanic. He eventually completed his academics and graduated from technical school with an AandP Mechanic Certificate and went on to achieve his Inspector Authorization as an Aircraft Mechanic. He continued his aviation training through his private, commercial, instrument, multiengine Flight Instructor; Airplane Single and Multi-engine Instrument Airplane certificates and eventually Airline Transport Pilot and Remote Pilot for Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (Drones). During his training he was guided by Aurie to become an agricultural pilot (crop duster). He worked on aircraft, flew everything he could get his hands on; worked various positions with Vercoa Air Service, Inc., Danville Illinois and Britt Airways.

On June 29, 1960 Gene responded to the call of duty for his nation and enlisted in the Army National Guard at Redwood Falls, Minnesota. He qualified as a Sharpshooter and an Expert in Field Artillery and received the Sharpshooter Badge w/bar Carbine and Expert Badge w/bar Field Artillery and his military occupational specialty was Asst. Gunner. He served for four (4) years and received his Honorable Discharge on June 28, 1964.

Gene continued his passion for flying and with over 6,000 flight hours, including Agricultural, Charter, and Instructor time, he accepted his first airline position as Co-pilot at Lake Central Airlines on the DC-3. Lake Central Airlines later merged with Allegheny and then that carrier merged with Mohawk, and in 1979 became USAir .. Gene was qualified on several aircraft types; the DC-3, Nord 262, Convair 580, DC-9, Boeing - 727, Fokker 100, Boeing - 757/767. He held various positions as First Officer, Captain, IOE Captain, Chief Pilot USAir Boston Base and spent a great length of his aviation career flying out of the Greater Pittsburgh International Airport. He retired as an International Captain for USAir in 1992, at the age of 55.In the following six months he was recalled to service with USAir Flight Simulator Contract Training,located in Moon Township. While there, Gene trained pilots from around the world. He traveled to trainpilots in Finland and Ghana Africa. He was instrumental in assisting with the original Ghana Airlines Pilot training both in the United States and also, the in aircraft training and testing, in the DC-9 in Ghana, Africa. In 1996 Gene became the owner of Stensin Aviation located at the Beaver County Airport in Chippewa, PA, which he subsequently changed the name to Pro Flight Center, Inc., and, provided flight training, charter, maintenance, and fuel services. His school provided training through all Flight Instructor Certification as well as Seaplane Ratings, Helicopter Ratings, Tailwheel and Aerobatic training. Students and pilots had the opportunity to complete a two or four year degree program through Beaver County Community College and through Utah Valley State College which in now Utah Valley University. The school was FAA approved 141, 135, 145 and 61. Gene was one of the rare aviators to have his FAA approval as a Training Center Evaluator (TCE part 142) for the DC-9 and the Boeing -727, utilizing USAir Simulators under dry lease. His 142 program provided both ground and simulator training and certification.

On March 14, 2008 Gene was the recipient of both the Master Pilot and Master Mechanic Awards for Recognition of Fifty Years of Dedicated Service in Aviation Safety from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This provides a standing testament to his lifelong mindset of safety first and his loyalty to his chosen profession as an aviator. His name is listed for both achievements at the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C. There are scores of individuals who came through Pro Flight Center's door, whose own successful careers are a living testament of the quality of training that was provided by Gene's knowledge and generosity as a mentor, boss, pilot and friend. He met his wife Maureen in 1996 and they were together for the past 25 years. Dedicated to each other, aviation and family, their faith in God and love for America. He attended St. Matthew Catholic Parish in Gahanna, Ohio and was a member of the Knights of Columbus (3rd degree), he supported both the AOPA and EAA over the years and was a member of the USAirways Soaring Eagles.

Gene is preceded in passing by his parents; John and Elvera Schumacher. Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife and aviator Maureen Schumacher; his Loving Family; first wife Kathryn (Kay) Schumacher, mother of his three children of Arlington, MN; sons Randy (Rhonda) Schumacher of Glencoe, MN and Kevin (Karla) Schumacher of Prior Lake, MN; daughter Julie (Mike) Scharping of Arlington, MN; seven grandchildren; Cody, Logan, Seth, Brett, Alicia, Makinsey and Tate; four great-grandchildren; Crosby, Blakely, Braelynn and Miller; many cousins, nieces, nephews, friends and loving colleagues; mother- in Law Isabella Casasanta of Moon Township, PA; brother in law Donald Casasanta of Moon Township, PA and niece Hannah Casasanta of Moon Township,PA.

Gene's family will welcome guests at two events -
COLUMBUS: Visitation will take place on Sunday, August 29, from 1pm-5pm at SCHOEDINGER NORTHEAST, 1051 East Johnstown Road, Gahanna 43230, with a prayer service to follow at 5:30pm.

PENNSYLVANIA: Gene's family will also receive friends on Tuesday, August 31, 2021 from 3pm-7pm at R.D. Copeland Funeral Home, 981 Brodhead Rd, Moon Township, PA 15108. Gene's funeral service will take place on Wednesday, September 1, 2021 at 10am at Copeland Funeral Home and a 10:30 prayer service, with interment and an honor guard at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery in Coraopolis, PA.

Gene's family would like to ask that any pilot in attendance come in uniform. The Schumacher family would like to extend grateful thanks to Gene's visiting physicians, his private visit nurses, and Grace Hospice for all of the kindness and care.

Flowers are welcome however, In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Gene's memory to... Wounded Warriors Project in Memory of Gene - https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/donate St. Jude Children's Hospital in Memory of Gene - www.stjude.org .

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Eugene "Gene" J. Schumacher please visit our Sympathy Store.
Upcoming Events

Visitation AUG 29. 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM (EST) Schoedinger Funeral and Cremation Service - Northeast 1051 E Johnstown Rd Gahanna, OH 43230

Gene will be transported home to Pennsylvania on Monday August 30th. Visitation in Moon Township. Pennsylvania is on Tuesday August 31st from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Prayer-service the following morning on Wednesday September 1st at 10:00 am at;

R. D. Copeland Funeral Home
981 Brodhead Road
Moon Township, PA 15108 (412)264-1390 specify Moon Township!

Honor Guard immediately after at; Resurrection Catholic Cemetery
100 Resurrection Road
Moon Township. PA 15108
Updated 8/26/2021
Obituary
Alan P. Kasin 03/24/1938 - 08/22/2021

Al flew West to be met by his daughters, Michelle and Nicolle. There will be a funeral next Tuesday August 31 at 2:00pm at The Episcopal Church of the Epiphany 421 Custer Road Richardson, TX. Al will be buried at the DFW National Cemetery at a future date.

Al grew up playing sports, hunting, and fishing. He was class president in high school and was captain of the wresting team his senior year. His greatest accomplishment in college (other than graduating with a BS in 1959) was as a center midfielder on the Syracuse lacrosse team.

Al was commissioned in the Army after college graduation and went on to flight school. He flew both fixed wing and helicopters and served in many overseas assignments. He left the Army in 1967 and went on to fly for Braniff where he became a 727 Captain. When Braniff went bankrupt in 1982, Al joined Piedmont Airlines and retired in 1995 as a 737 Captain after Piedmont's merger with USAir. He was a member of the "Braniff Silver Eagles, the Heritage Foundation, the Texas Rifle Association and a Benefactor Member of the NRA.

After retirement, Al continued to hunt on his ranch and enjoyed his annual salmon fishing trip to Alaska. He and Pat traveled around the world and enjoyed their time at the ranch. Al will continue to root for the Stars, Cowboys, Rangers, and Frisco RoughRiders from his "new seat"!!!

Al is survived by his wife Pat, the love of his life and best friend, his brother Jay and wife Cindy, and numerous other cousins and nephews.

Cards may be sent
Mrs. Pat Kasin
2811 Forest Grove
Richardson TX, 75080
Updated 8/13/2021

Obituary
Edward Joseph Colgan Jr., age 87, passed peacefully on Wednesday, August 11th, 2021 at his home in Warrenton, VA. He was born in Queens, New York on February 23rd, 1934, son of the late Edward & Emma Colgan. In July of 1956, he married Patricia Gruebnau in Malvern, New York.

Edward entered the US Naval Cadet Training Program in January 1954 at the Floyd Bennett Naval Air Station Brooklyn, NY and reported for training in Pensacola, FL. Upon completion of the 18-month flight training program, he was commissioned Ensign and assigned to Anti-Submarine Squadron VS32, and served aboard the USS Tarawa C.V.S.40, USS Bon Homme Richard C.V.A.31, USS Leyte C.V.S.32. He served actively from1955-1961 and as a reservist from 1961-1973. He retired from the Navy in December 1973 at the rank of LCDR.

Ed began his 31-year career as commercial airline pilot in 1961 with American Airlines. Throughout his piloting career, he flew for Mohawk Airlines, Allegheny Airlines and USAir, before retiring as a Captain in 1992. He moved to Warrenton in 1971, bought a farm and began his hobby of raising Thoroughbred Racehorses; naming some of them after his grandchildren. Family trips to Charlestown to cheer on the horses were common. Black Angus Cattle and chickens were also found grazing around the property; and chasing escaped cows down RT 17 made some dinners a very special treat!

He enjoyed boating, fishing, and clamming in the Long Island Sound NY; and, after moving to Virginia, teaching his children to water ski in Lake Anna. He spent many hours fishing with his grandchildren in the pond on his farm.

To fill his free time during retirement, Edward served his fellow commercial pilots as ALPA Chairman for USAirways System Board of Adjustment. He remained connected to his aviation roots as a member of the Soaring Eagles and the Tailhook Association.

He engaged in his community by serving as a member of the Parish Council at St. John the Evangelist Church, the Bealeton-Remington Ruritan Club, and the John Marshall Club. Ed also enjoyed spending time perusing the farm auctions convincing his friends to buy unneeded equipment.

Edward is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Pat Colgan; three children, Jane Newton & her husband, Michael of Gainesville, VA, Karen Burns & her husband, Ronald of Huntingtown, MD and Timothy Colgan & his wife, Dawn of Orlean, VA; a daughter-in-law, Kay Colgan of Amissville, VA; seven grandchildren, Ryan (Beth), Andrea, McKayla, Jonathan, David (Avery), Sterling and Ainsley; and one great granddaughter, Kayleigh. In addition to his parents, Edward is preceded in death by a son, Christopher Edward Colgan and two sisters, Marilyn Colgan & Diane McIntyre.

The family will receive friends at Moser Funeral Home, 233 Broadview Ave. in Warrenton, VA on Monday, August 16th from 6 to 8 pm. A mass of Christian burial will be offered on Tuesday, August 17th, 11 am, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 271 Winchester St., Warrenton, VA 20186 followed by interment at Bright View cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church(www.sje1.org) and/or Heartland Hospice(promedicahospice.org/warrenton).
Updated 8/9/2021

William Douglas Crawford passed away peacefully Friday, Aug. 6, 2021. He was born in Saginaw, Mich., to former Congressman Fred L. and Elizabeth (Jones) Crawford. During his father's eight terms (1935 -1953) in Washington, D.C., the family resided in Prince George's County, Md. He briefly attended Staunton Military Academy, Staunton, Va. He graduated from Eastern High School, Washington, D.C., in 1952. While attending high school, Bill and his mother started the Allentown Road Volunteer Fire Department. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the Navy, serving on the USS Wasp and was honorably discharged in 1959, having earned the commendations of Navy Occupation Service Medal, National Defense Medal, Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal and China Service Medal (Extended). After returning home from the Navy, he attended the University of Maryland, College Park, Md., graduating with a Bachelor of Science in industrial engineering. After graduation in 1961, he started and ran his own business building custom homes.

As aviation was always his passion, he then began taking flying lessons, and became a flight instructor. By 1967, he had become a commercial pilot, joining Mohawk Airlines, which eventually became part of USAir. While on the job, he met his eventual wife, Marilyn Miles, who was a flight attendant for the airline. Bill, Marilyn and their family lived in both Washington D.C. and then Singer Island, Fla., prior to relocating to the Pittsburgh area in 1986 in order for Bill to be close to the USAir hub. Bill and Marilyn then chose to remain in Edgeworth for the past 35 years. He retired from his airline career as captain in 1991 and started building custom homes in Sewickley thereafter for several years. He was a member of the Soaring Eagles Airline Pilot Association and a friend of the Sewickley Presbyterian Church. He enjoyed extensive travels across the U.S. and Europe, preferably by cruise ship. He also enjoyed sailing, boating, cooking and reading. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his family. He was also a great animal lover, especially of dogs and horses.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents. Married for 50 years, he is survived by his beloved wife, Marilyn, and his sons, William Jr. (Sandra), Scott (Jessica) and Doug (Christina); grandchildren, Christopher, Colin, Dylan and Sierra; and two great-grandchildren. Services will be private. Arrangements are entrusted to COPELAND'S IRVINE CHAPEL, Sewickley. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Cochran Hose Company, P.O. Box 1000, Sewickley, PA 15143; Good Samaritan Hospice, Wexford; Animal Friends, 562 Camp Horne Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15237; St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105; or to a charity of your choosing.
Published by Triblive Online Only on Aug. 7, 2021.
Updated 7/31/2021

Obituary for Richard Ashton Noblett
Richard Ashton Noblett, aged 90, of Warren, NJ, died January 21, 2021, at his home following a brief illness with Myelodysplastic Syndrome. Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, he was the son of John and Mildred Noblett.

His bride of 68 years, Judith West Noblett, and their five children, Deborah Noblett, Tim Noblett and his wife Anna, Pamela Noblett, Rick Noblett and his wife Lynn, Renee Grandell and her husband David survive him.

Richard leaves behind 7 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, and his sister, Shirley J. Moran of Clearwater Beach, Florida.

While working for his father's flying school at Detroit City Airport, he attended Wayne [State] University fulltime and received an ROTC commission in the Army in January 1953 upon graduation.

In June 1953 he became the chief pilot for Automotive Rubber Company with special product development duty when not flying. He ended the last three years of his 14 years with ARco as a sales-engineer calling on Chrysler and America Motors.

During this period with ARco, Richard was activated by the army for two years and spent most of this time with his family at Fort Davis in the Canal Zone assigned to the Jungle Warfare Training Center on the north side of the isthmus. As an instructor, he had obtained the designation of Jungle Expert.

Wanting to fly jets, Richard obtained employment with Mohawk Airlines in June 1967. Mohawk was looking for experienced pilots and was willing to accept older pilots to meet their goal. Captain Noblett retired from USAir at the end of 1992 with a blemish free career, while residing in Summit, NJ from 1967 until 2007.

As he wished, Richard was cremated. Because of the Pandemic, a memorial service will be scheduled later.

To plant trees in memory, please visit our Sympathy Store. Published by Courier News from Feb. 18 to Feb. 21, 2021.
Updated 7/22/2021

Obituary for Pete Rebstock
Pete Rebstock 1949-2021 passed away May 27, 2021. Pete had suffered from cancer for close to a year. He was 71 years old when he passed away with his wife and brother by his side.

Pete began his aviation career the hard way - instructing students how to fly airplanes. He accumulated quite a bit of flight time but needed an equalizer since he didn't have any jet time. He bought a Flight Engineer ticket through Fowler Aviation in Denver, CO. That led to a successful interview with Braniff in 1973. Post Braniff, he got on with USAir almost right away. Pete benefitted from the law change and continued his airline career for an extra five years before finally retiring in 2014. He didn't let any grass grow under his feet, however, and continued his flying career with NetJets. The fractional shares company was a perfect fit for Pete as he was able to keep his hand in the aviation world and still have plenty of time off to spend with his wife Marsha at their home in Cayucos, CA on the Pacific coast about half way between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Pete Rebstock flew for Braniff 1973-1982.
Updated 7/10/2021
Obituary
James Francis Urbanski, 72, known to his friends and the world as "Uncle Jimmy", passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, July 4, 2021, at UPMC Passavant. An accomplished horseman, aviator, and businessman, Jim was born in Coraopolis on May 28, 1949, to the late Joseph Francis and Julia Elizabeth (Moy) Urbanski. Jim found his two great passions, flying airplanes and riding horses, at the age of 15. He obtained his bachelor's degree from West Virginia State University. He flew for many years in the Air National Guard and later as a commercial airline pilot, quickly rising to the rank of Captain at USAir (formerly Allegheny Airlines). Later in life he founded and served as first President of Uncle Jimmy's Brand Products, an international equine and poultry products manufacturing company located in New Castle, Pennsylvania. Jim was an active equestrian throughout his life and competed in a variety of equine events, including team penning and CMSA Events. He served as a founder, director, and past president of the Steel City Gunslingers CMSA club. He was also a member of the Northern Ohio Outlaws and Lake Erie Vaqueros CMSA clubs. With his wife and longtime partner, Colleen, Jim was involved in an equine camp for children. Jim also enjoyed cooking, maintaining his large horse farm, entertaining friends with bonfires and parties, and above all the time that he spent with his family. James is the beloved husband and long-time companion of Colleen Kelly; the loving father of Dr. Christy L. (David) McCandless; adored "Pappy" of James and Lydia; and brother of Janet (James) Parise. Arrangements by Copeland's.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in his name to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James Francis Urbanski, please visit our floral store.
Updated 5/26/2021
Obituary

Obituary for Patrick Joseph Connolly
On March 24, 2021, Patrick Joseph Connolly, age 80, of Wexford, beloved husband of 47 years to June Allison Connolly; father of Kelly (Felipe Garcia Quintana) Connolly and Shannon (Richard Carns) Connolly; brother of Michael (Connie) Connolly and the late Marylu (Thomas) Seelig; grandfather of Adriana, Sebastian and Eric Garcia Connolly; Rhett and Carolyn June "CJ" Carns.
Private arrangements by Simons Funeral Home, 7720 Perry Highway, www.simonsfuneralhome.com. Contributions may be made to Saints John and Paul Church. www.greatgrouping.org
Updated 5/25/2021
Obituary

Obituary for George Michael Crump
G. Michael Crump
March 9,1952-February 2, 2018

G. Michael Crump soared West into "the wild blue yonder" to touch the face of God on February 2, 2018. Mike was born in Reading, PA on March 9, 1952 to parents George O. and Kathleen P. Crump. He attended St. Catherine of Sienna Elementary, Central Catholic High School, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and graduated from Kent State University where he earned his degree in Aeronautical Engineering.

Upon graduation from Kent State, Mike joined the United States Air Force where he was a commissioned Second Lieutenant, assigned to pilot training. He completed his USAF Under-graduate Pilot Training at Reese AF Base in Texas.

Mike spent the next 6 years in the Air Force, with his final assignment being the T-33 at An-drews AF Base in MD. Upon leaving the Air Force in 1981, Mike joined Piedmont Airlines as a Commercial Airline Pilot. He achieved Captain status in 1985. Thru a series of mergers and acquisitions, Mike was em-ployed by USAir and American Airlines. Mike's last assignment was flying the Boeing 767 on International routes.

Mike's love of all things Aeronautical began at an early age. After a single engine airplane ride with his grandfather, and watching Sky King on TV, the stage was set. Mike worked at Spatz Field in Reading during his teenage years to earn money to take flying lessons. He achieved both his private pilot license and VFR instrument rating before graduating high school.

Mike is survived by his mother, Kathleen P., brother, Patrick S., sister in laws, Kathy and Ruby P., daughters, Kelly A., Patricia F., and Christine M. and granddaughter Alana A. Corsaut. Mike is preceded in death by his father George O., and brother Jeffrey J.

In lieu of flowers or other tributes, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association or the American Diabetes Association.

A Celebration of Life will be planned for a later date.
Updated 5/5/2021
Obituary

After a long battle with a rare neurological condition, Norman Sigel Kerns went home to be with his Savior on Thursday April 15, 2021 at 2:20 AM. Norman passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his family.

Norman is survived by his devoted wife, Janet Stafford Kerns formerly of Fredonia, NY, his precious Bichon, Lily, his seven children: Barb Harris (Paul), Sue Lina (Bruce), Donna Mask (Randy), David Kerns (Cindy), Kim Osborne (Eric), Wes Kerns (Karen), and Kelly Wong (Matt), his seventeen grandchildren: Michael Mask (Jamie), Ashley Richards, Rachel Carey (Jake Carey), Morgan Lanier, Taylore Runkles (Anton), Lucas Kerns (Alex), Morgan Kerns (Austin Mills), Nathan Kerns, Ian Coslett, Jake Kerns, Griffin Wong, Benjamin Kerns, Madison Coslett, Aiden Wong, Nora Kerns, Jordan Osborne, and Ava Wong, and his three great grandchildren: Colten Mask, Bo Mask, and Madisyn Lanier. He is also survived by his sister, Patricia Butler (Jim).

Norman (Stormin' Norman) was born on July 10, 1933 in Altoona, PA to Norman Shubert Kerns and Anna Rebecca Sigel. He is proceeded in death by his sister Rebecca Kerns. Norman served in the U.S. Air Force for four years before becoming a Captain for USAir. Since his childhood, Norman knew he wanted to be a pilot and he had a long, fulfilling career with USAir before retiring. Never a man to sit still for too long, Norman dedicated his retirement years to Habitat for Humanity where he used his passion for building and design as lead foreman for many projects. Norman's greatest achievement was being a loving husband, devoted father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He was a true family man.

There were no strangers to Norman as he made everyone he encountered feel like family. He had a firm handshake and a unique laugh. Norman was a presence. With bright blue eyes and a generous spirit, he could light up any room. He enjoyed playing pool, ping pong, building and designing homes and helping others. Norman spent his time traveling with his wife and teaching his children and grandchildren how to properly play any board game put in front of him. Norman had many interests and was able to see the beauty in the quiet moments with his family and the big adventures on a commercial aircraft. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him, and his legacy of kindness and generosity will live on for many years to come.

A fellowship visitation will be held at 11:00 AM followed by a memorial service at 12:00 PM on May 22, 2021 at Bay Lake Missionary Baptist Church at 9020 South Bay Lake Rd. Groveland, FL 34736. Those who cannot attend in-person may view the service via live stream or video archive on Bay Lake Missionary Baptist Church's Facebook page. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Bay Lake Missionary Baptist Church where Norman enjoyed fellowship. The Kerns family also asks that you complete a random act of kindness in honor of Norman.
Updated 4/13/2021
Obituary

Donald Rae Hackert passed away April 1. Formerly of Mount Kisco, NY and Londonderry, NH, he was a resident of Sebastian, FL. He was a pilot for Mohawk Airlines, Allegheny Airlines and US Airways.

Don was born in 1933 in Bronx, NY the son of Frederick Hackert and Dorothy Glasgow Hackert. After the death of his mother, his father married Julia Welsh Hackert who had his four siblings Thomas, Beverly, Dianne and Herbert.

Don graduated from Mount Kisco High School and served in the US Army in Germany. Afterward, he worked on the ground crew at Westchester County Airport. One night, he and another ground crew member were stopped by police racing each other home. The next issue of the local paper carried the headline "Two airport employees caught flying low through Armonk."

Don got his pilot's license, and was hired by Mohawk Airlines in 1966. He became a captain with Allegheny Airlines, and retired from US Airways in 1996.

Don coached and umpired for Little League Baseball in Londonderry, NH. He retired to Sebastian, FL where he enjoyed golf, potato chips and Diet Coke.

He is survived by his loving sons Brian and Timothy, his granddaughter Sarah, his great grandchildren Aiden, Ava and Alexander, and his siblings Tommy, Dianne and Bev.
Updated 3/31/2021
Obituary

Arthur Michael Romano, known by family and friends as Artie, of Norton MA, formerly of Plymouth and Pembroke MA, boarded his final first-class flight (non-rev, positive space) on February 3, 2021, joining his loving parents in eternal rest.

Artie was born on January 8, 1963 at Kenmore hospital in Boston MA to Mary Alice "Molly" (Reilly) and Arturo Romano of Weymouth MA. An only child, Artie was the world and the light of his parent's lives.

Artie and his parents moved to Indian Cliffs in Milton, MA where he lived a golden childhood; riding his dirt bikes; playing golf; and traveling with family and friends- mostly to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. This is where Artie discovered his love of flying. Artie always said as a small boy, he could never sleep the night before a vacation because he was so excited for the plane ride. This excitement followed him into adulthood.

Artie lived golden teenage years attending Thayer Academy in Braintree MA, class of 1981. Artie loved to ski (with special memories of the Thayer Academy European ski trip to the French Alps), drive his red Trans Am, perfect his golf game, and earn his pilots license at Norwood airport.

Artie earned a bachelor degree in 1985 from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Florida and his Master in Aeronautical Science in 1986. Along with his degrees, Artie earned his Instrument Rating, Multi-Engine rating, Commercial Certificate, Flight Instructor (CFI) and Instrument Instructor (CFII).

At "Riddle", Artie flew hundreds of hours flight instructing, teaching both Riddle students as well as Air Force cadets hoping to become Air Force pilots.

During his college and grad school years, two things changed his life; he met the love of his life, Susan, and the 1986 release of the movie, "Topgun" which he could quote line by line (I feel the need, the need for speed!). In 1987, Artie and Susan married and Artie took his first commuter airline position with Eastern Express (Bar Harbor Airlines) where he was first officer in the Saab 340 and had his first experience with a glass cockpit in the ATR 42. Artie was 24 years old.

After a year in the commuters, Artie was hired to fly the right seat of a Boeing 737-300 for USAir (later USAirways), based at their main hub in Pittsburgh PA. After earning enough seniority to fly a line out of Boston Logan Airport, Artie and Susan moved home. While flying the DC-9 out of Boston, Artie and Susan were blessed with a beautiful son and bought their first home in Pembroke MA. After 12 years in Pembroke, and flying various planes including the Airbus 320 where he became Captain, Artie and his family moved to Plymouth MA for the next 12 years. Artie's final plane before an early retirement was the Airbus 330 out of Philadelphia.

During his flying career, Artie enjoyed taking his family, his friends, and his in-laws on beautiful Caribbean vacations and cruises. Susan recalls how pilots would greet them in airports and stop to tell Susan that Artie was the greatest pilot they had ever flown with; that he always greased his landings.

Artie liked fast cars, fast planes, and the beautiful blue waters of the Caribbean. But most of all, Artie loved his son. Tony was the world and the light of Artie's life.

Although they were no longer married, Artie & Susan remained family, speaking most mornings on Susan's way to work.

Artie lost his fight with alcoholism, but he never lost the love of his family or his love for them. Artie was 58 years old.

Artie is survived by his son Anthony (Tony) Romano of Marshfield, his former wife Susan (McGaffigan), of Pembroke, his Reilly/O'Connell family and cousins who were siblings to him, and his friends throughout his lifetime. All who loved him ask that you only take your good memories of Artie with you. Let all painful memories go. Be assured, Artie is in his glory right now; listening to Billy Joel, while his mother cooks him a steak and his second pan of Boxty.

Due to Covid, a graveside ceremony and a celebration of life will be private.

In lieu of flowers or memorial trees, please make a difference in someone's life and make a donation in Artie's name to behavioral health and substance use disorder programs within the Grayken Center for Treatment at South Shore Health.

Online: SouthShoreHealth.org/Evergreen
By Mail: Make checks payable to: South Shore Health Foundation, 55 Fogg Rd., South Weymouth, MA. 02190.
(Please specify behavioral health/substance abuse when making your donation online or by mail.)

My candle burns at both ends;
it will not last night;
But ah, my foes, and oh, my friends-
It gives a lovely light!
Edna St. Vincent Malay

Obituary lovingly provided by the family of Arthur Romano.
Updated 3/4/2021
Obituary
Roger L. Flenniken flew west on 2-7-2021. Born 8-10-1942

Roger was a member of Mt. Olive Baptist Church. Preceded in death by father Tom and mother Mildred Flenniken, brothers Richard and Donnie Flenniken. Survived by wife of 55 years Sarah; sons Scott (Sharon) and Tory (Kristy); granddaughters Zoe, Shelby, Sydney, and Candice; brothers Tommy (Becky) and Fred (Ann); and sister Patricia Ann. A special thank you to Pat for all her love and help. He received an honorable discharge from the United States Air Force.

Roger spent 55 years in aviation. He was a corporate pilot for Vulcan Materials and a flight instructor for Smokey Mountain Aerial. He also piloted for Piedmont - USAir for 25 years. Roger retired from USAir in 1994 as Captain on the Boeing 727. He was subsequently the chief pilot for Catalina Air on a DC-3 from 1995-2001. Roger received the FAA Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award in 2017 in recognition of his accident free career. He also owned and operated 411 Racetrack from 1994-2000.

Family will receive friends, Wednesday, February 10, 2021 from 12:00 noon to 2:00 PM at Mt Olive Baptist Church, 2500 Maryville Pike, Knoxville, Tennessee. Funeral service to follow at 2:00 PM with Dr. Corey Cain and Pastor Claude Ramsey officiating. Following services the family will drive in procession to Mt. Olive Cemetery for an 3:00 PM internment service, with military honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Seymour Volunteer Fire Department, 101 Ford Hill Lane, Seymour, Tennessee 37865.

The funeral service will be live streamed on the Berry Funeral Home Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/BerryFuneralHome
Updated 2/22/2021
Obituary
Leonard Michael LeMaster of Hendersonville died on September 26, 2020 at Elizabeth House. Leonard was a kind and gentle family man with a passion for music, aviation, golf and all living things -- an avid bird watcher throughout his life. He was born in Port Huron, MI on August 17, 1935; the second child of Dennis F. LeMaster and Mary Leskanic LeMaster. In 1942, the family moved to Royal Oak, MI where Leonard entered parochial school at the Shrine of the Little Flower. By the high school years, Leonard and his classmates were mortified by the name of their school. To project a more masculine image, Leonard and five friends began calling themselves "the Syndi-cats". As Leonard put it, "We thought we were the ultimate in cool...slicked back pompadours, pegged pants and white buck shoes." During high school years, he developed a love of golf. He and the Syndi-cats caddied for members of the Oakland Hills Golf and Country Club. He never caddied for the pros, but he was present at many PGA events. The most exciting for him was the U.S. Open of 1951, won by his idol, Ben Hogan. He wanted his own swing to emulate Hogan's. Leonard did develop a swing that he executed with precision for 55 years. He enjoyed playing in Member Guests with his son, Michael. They won two tournaments.

Leonard enrolled at Wayne State University in Electrical Engineering , working as a bank teller to pay tuition, but his fascination with aviation won out in 1955 when a team of Air Force recruiters came to Detroit. After a week of testing, he was selected to begin pre-flight training in Lacklund, TX. He progressed through primary, basic, and advanced flight training at Graham, Bryan and Perrin Air Force Bases. After graduation in 1957, he was assigned to Shaw Air Force Base in South Carolina to become part of the Photo Reconnaissance Team. Later, Leonard won the Air Force Commendation Medal for leadership in developing the tactical components of low level flying in a single seat fighter; the RF-101, nicknamed the Voodoo. Carrying only cameras and no guns, the Photo Recce motto became "Alone, Unarmed and Unafraid". Leonard's comment about the motto was, "Only two of those adjectives were correct".

From 1959 to early 1962, Leonard was stationed at Couvron AFB in Laon, France. Here he earned the nickname "The Phantom" for elusive tactics used in flying under radar and escaping detection in air space around Berlin. In 1962, he returned to Shaw AFB in the middle of the Cold War tensions. Photo Recce played a significant role in the October standoff between President John F. Kennedy and Khrushchev, known as the Cuban Missile Crisis. Krushchev denied that Russia was placing missiles in Cuba aimed at the U.S. mainland. Leonard was one of the first to fly low level into Cuba and photograph the missile silos, giving President Kennedy the proof he needed to change the narrative with Russia. Following that mission, President Kennedy awarded Leonard the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Air Force Commendation Medal aboard an aircraft carrier. Leonard left the Air Force for commercial flying in 1964. He flew for Mohawk Airlines out of Buffalo, NY for eight years before Mohawk merged with Allegheny Airlines to become US Air, his employer until retirement in 1992. Commercial flying was more lucrative, but he never enjoyed it as fully as flying the Voodoo.

Leonard is survived by his wife of 29 years, Margaret Austin LeMaster, his first wife, Anita Nastasi Szabo, and four children; Michael Dennis LeMaster of Ft. Walton Beach, FL, Karen Ann LeMaster of Batavia, NY, Susan Denise Bieber (Bob) of Hamburg, NY, and Damian Michael Oliver LeMaster (Carson) of Rabat, Morocco. An infant daughter, Maria Lynn LeMaster, predeceased him. His step-sons are William David Ratcliffe (Ana) of Vienna, Va and Stephen Keith Ratcliffe (Ruthie) of Glen Burnie, MD. His sister, Mariann Flore, lives in Royal Oak, MI. Leonard was predeceased by his wife, Judith Ann Lawton of Markham, Ontario, whom he married in 1972. Damian LeMaster was their son, born in 1978. Judy died in 1989. A brother, David LeMaster, sister, Elaine Sacco, and daughter-in-law Yvonne LeMaster predeceased him. Leonard was blessed with 13 grandchildren; Angi, Danny, Leah, Jimmy, Emily, Nicholas, Robert and Jamie; and the step-grandchildren who adopted Leonard as their own; Michael, Stephen, Margaret, Meaghan and Anna. He allowed them to call him whatever name they chose and answered to "Granddad, D-Daddy, Grand-Leonard, and Big Daddy. His great-grandchildren are Anthony, Joey, Vincent and Raven. He is survived by ten nieces and nephews; Dennis,Toni, Leonard, Dean, Christopher, Jeff, David, Stephen, Tracy and Doug. They helped him liven up the family reunions.

In Hendersonville, Leonard leaves his best friend, Gordon Ludwig, whom he met as a volunteer at The Medical Loan Closet. We promised Leonard we'd forego the big funeral. He'd had enough of those while serving as an altar boy at Shrine of the Little Flower. A small family service is planned for Thursday, October 29th at 2:00p.m. in the Memorial Garden at St. James Episcopal Church. His request is that we throw a big party for all our family and friends to celebrate his life. That part is on hold until summer 2021. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial gifts be sent to St. James Episcopal Church, 766 N. Main St., Hendersonville, NC 28792 or Four Seasons Hospice, 571 S. Allen Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28731. Shuler Funeral Home, Hendersonville, NC
Updated 2/15/2021
Obituary
John T Gilbert
Captain John T. Gilbert, 90, passed away peacefully at his home on February 6, 2021 in Safety Harbor, Florida. Born in Buffalo, New York on December 28, 1930, he was the youngest son of the late John T. Gilbert Sr. and Catherine Gilbert who had four sons and one daughter. He resided in Kenmore, a neighborhood community in the Buffalo-Niagara Falls metropolitan area and attended schools there until he graduated in 1949. Early on, he had a special interest in aviation, and was likely seen at the local grass airport. He enlisted in the US Coast Guard in 1950 and served during the Korean war for four and a half years, honorably as a Second-Class Boatswain mate. His aviation desires became fulfilled by attending a General Aviation flight school under the veterans G.I Bill on January 19, 1956. He had completed his commercial, instrument licensing while flying for a fixed base operator. They offered charter, crop dusting, mosquito spraying, and spotting schools of fish offshore in the ocean. He built time there until being hired by Allegheny in 1959.

In 1964, he married flight attendant, Nancy Blomquist of Alexandria, VA. He became a captain that same year and flew for 29 years until his voluntarily early retirement in 1987. After retirement, he and Nancy fulfilled their dream of living aboard the boat and traveling along the Gulf and Atlantic coasts until 2002 when they moved ashore. They also enjoyed traveling by RV out west and throughout the country. His wife Nancy died in 2004. He lived in the glory of God, being born again in the 1993. He and Nancy both belonged to First United Methodist church since 1973, singing in the Contemporary Praise team for over 17 years, active in Sunday school studies weekly, and more than 14 years before his death in International Bible Study fellowship, a world-wide Christian Program. He was predeceased by his wife, Nancy and by his grandson, Jason Fisher. He is survived by his devoted partner of 14 years, Reba Ambrester; his daughter, Cheryl Gilbert Hackney (Charlie); granddaughter, Melissa Luczkiewicz (John) and great grandchildren, Zoe and Mia; son, Jonathan Gilbert; daughter, Heidi Smith, (Michael) and grandchildren, Kate and Ben; sister, Cay Grant; sister in-law, Barbara Zagaria; many nieces, nephews and his devoted caregiver, Holly Cline.

A memorial service will be held on April 9th, 2021 at 11am at the First United Methodist Church, 212 3rd St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. In lieu of flowers, donations and memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church of Saint Petersburg, Florida, and All Children's Hospital of St. Petersburg.
Updated 2/18/2021
Obituary
Capt. Harvel Alexander Horrell, Jr., 79, of Wilmington and formerly of Hampstead, a retired Captain with US Air, "flew west" Wednesday, October 21, 2020 while at the home of his daughter surrounded with love by his family.

He was born November 28, 1940 in Burgaw, the son of the late Harvel Alexander Horrell, Sr. and Ethel Mae Highsmith Horrell.

Harvel is survived by his wife of 56 years, Lucille "Lucy" B. Horrell; daughters, Martha H. Prosser and husband, Warren and Levrah "LeAnn" H. Hall and husband, Larry; grandchildren, Justin Hall, Jordan Prosser, Jami Hall, Jackson Prosser, Sarah Prosser, and Carisa Hall; great grandchildren, Kaydence Anderson and Landin Williams; sisters, Annette Groves and husband, Wade, and Carolyn Lanier; brother, Samuel Horrell and wife, Debra; and many extended family and friends.

Harvel got his start in aviation while attending American Flyers in Ardmore, Oklahoma. Upon graduating in January 1967, he began providing flight instruction until being hired by Piedmont Airlines. He started his flying career in September 1968 and retired in 1994 from US Air.

Harvel was a man of many trades and could do most anything with his hands. In addition to his passion for flying, he enjoyed building, painting, boating, fishing, hunting, and cooking.

Following his retirement, he was an active member in his church, Faith Harbor United Methodist Church, and Piedmont Silver Eagles. He spent many mornings enjoying breakfast with his friends. "Pepaw" loved spending time with his grandchildren and watching them grow into well grounded, loving individuals.

Graveside service will be 2:00 p.m. Sunday, October 25, at Sea Lawn Memorial Park, 17750 US Hwy 17, Hampstead, NC with The Rev. William Hill Pearsall conducting the service.

In lieu of flowers memorial gifts may be given to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family by selecting Tribute Wall.

A service of Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Burgaw Chapel.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Harvel Alexander Horrell, Jr., please visit our floral store.
Updated 2/15/2021
Obituary
John T Gilbert
Captain John T. Gilbert, 90, passed away peacefully at his home on February 6, 2021 in Safety Harbor, Florida. Born in Buffalo, New York on December 28, 1930, he was the youngest son of the late John T. Gilbert Sr. and Catherine Gilbert who had four sons and one daughter. He resided in Kenmore, a neighborhood community in the Buffalo-Niagara Falls metropolitan area and attended schools there until he graduated in 1949. Early on, he had a special interest in aviation, and was likely seen at the local grass airport. He enlisted in the US Coast Guard in 1950 and served during the Korean war for four and a half years, honorably as a Second-Class Boatswain mate. His aviation desires became fulfilled by attending a General Aviation flight school under the veterans G.I Bill on January 19, 1956. He had completed his commercial, instrument licensing while flying for a fixed base operator. They offered charter, crop dusting, mosquito spraying, and spotting schools of fish offshore in the ocean. He built time there until being hired by Allegheny in 1959.

In 1964, he married flight attendant, Nancy Blomquist of Alexandria, VA. He became a captain that same year and flew for 29 years until his voluntarily early retirement in 1987. After retirement, he and Nancy fulfilled their dream of living aboard the boat and traveling along the Gulf and Atlantic coasts until 2002 when they moved ashore. They also enjoyed traveling by RV out west and throughout the country. His wife Nancy died in 2004. He lived in the glory of God, being born again in the 1993. He and Nancy both belonged to First United Methodist church since 1973, singing in the Contemporary Praise team for over 17 years, active in Sunday school studies weekly, and more than 14 years before his death in International Bible Study fellowship, a world-wide Christian Program. He was predeceased by his wife, Nancy and by his grandson, Jason Fisher. He is survived by his devoted partner of 14 years, Reba Ambrester; his daughter, Cheryl Gilbert Hackney (Charlie); granddaughter, Melissa Luczkiewicz (John) and great grandchildren, Zoe and Mia; son, Jonathan Gilbert; daughter, Heidi Smith, (Michael) and grandchildren, Kate and Ben; sister, Cay Grant; sister in-law, Barbara Zagaria; many nieces, nephews and his devoted caregiver, Holly Cline.

A memorial service will be held on April 9th, 2021 at 11am at the First United Methodist Church, 212 3rd St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. In lieu of flowers, donations and memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church of Saint Petersburg, Florida, and All Children's Hospital of St. Petersburg.
Updated 2/15/2021
Obituary
Paul Leighton
1939-2021

Paul Leighton, of Bedford, TX, passed away on Tuesday, February 2, 2021, at the age of 81. Paul will always be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend to all that knew and loved him. Paul was born on September 23, 1939, at his grandmother's home in Calumet, OK to George and Pauline Leighton. Paul studied at Notre Dame University and Oklahoma State University earning his business degree and receiving his Air Force ROTC commission in 1961. Paul married his wife of 59 years, Joan Ruscha Leighton, on June 24, 1961. Paul enjoyed a 40-year career in aviation including several years in the Air Force, Texas Air Guard, Braniff International, Piedmont Airlines, and US Airways. He was a highly skilled pilot, successful flight instructor, and respected colleague in both civil and military operations. He was type-rated as First Officer, or Captain, on multiple aircraft: T-37, T-38, F-102, T-33, L-188, DC-8, B-727, B-747, B-707, B-737, MD-80, FK-28, and FK-100.

Paul was an active member of St. Michaels Catholic Church and served many years as a Eucharistic Minister, Finance Committee, and various other ministries. He also served on the School Board at Holy Family Catholic Church in Irving, TX. Additionally, Paul served as president of his local HOA and several board positions at Braniff International Silver Eagles including the editor of the newsletter and president. Paul also enjoyed family time, telling stories, photography, running, cooking, and traveling. Once, actually completing a trip around the world, which by the way, was one of his favorite flying stories to tell. Paul is survived by his wife, Joan Leighton, and his children: Paula Leighton James; Cheryl and Ron Mason; Steve and Michelle Leighton. His grandchildren: Valerie Mason; Michael and Lacey Leighton; Ashlee and Chris Slaughter; Madalyn and Justin Burkhart; Nicole and Justin Newberry; Jeffrey Mason; Riley Mason; Caleb Alderman; Nicholas Leighton and Harrison Leighton. His great-grandchildren: Jeremiah Mason; Madilynn Newberry; Ronni Mason; Wyatt Burkhart and his nephew Jeff Ruscha. He was proceeded in death by his parents and brother.

The funeral service will be held at 3:00 pm on Monday, February 22, 2021, at St. Michaels Catholic Church in Bedford. Interment will follow at 4:00 pm at the Bluebonnet Hills Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Catholic Charities. Click on this to view or sign the Guestbook.
Updated 2/6/2021
Capt. Roland James Wolfe
Passed away December 5, 2020.

Obituary Wailea, Hawaii

With heavy hearts, we announce the death of Roland James Wolfe of Wailea, Hawaii, born in Cattaraugus, New York, who passed away on December 5, 2020 at the age of 94. Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.

He was predeceased by : his parents, Ralph Wolfe and Arlene Wolfe (Pepperdine); and his brother Kaye Avalon Wolfe (Mona). He is survived by : his wife Mona Yen (Miss Aloha); his children, Dale Wolfe (Theresa), Greg Wolfe (Cathy), Bob Wolfe (Joanne) and Susan Uhlman (Jim); and his grandchildren, Jeff, Joel, Alexis, Austin, Alex, Lucy Wolfe, Andrew and Jack Uhlman.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any remembrance be made to Hale Makua Wailuku, 1540 Lower Main St., Wailuku, HI 96793.
Updated 2/5/2021
Capt. Eugene C. "Gene" Conway
Passed away February 4, 2021.

Obituary

Rochester, NY - Eugene C. "Gene" Conway, age 80, passed away on Thursday, February 4, 2021. He is survived by four children, Melanie Conway Raccanello, Nicole Conway (David Lunder), Devie Conway, and Desiree Conway, seven grandchildren, a great-grandson, brother Gerald (Barbara) Conway, and dozens of nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his son, Brian Conway, and four siblings: Helen Conway, Dorothy Sorsby, Donal Conway, and Aloysius Jr. Conway.

Gene was born and raised in Teaneck, New Jersey. He proudly served in the U.S. Coast Guard as a shipboard Radioman and ultimately as a Pilot, reaching the rank of Lieutenant. Gene would continue his aviation career for over 55 years. Gene flew commercially for USAir as Captain of the DC-9 and MD-80, worked as an MD-88 flight instructor for Delta Airlines, and retired from his aviation career as a Federal Aviation Safety Inspector for the FAA. Gene was a member of the USAir Soaring Eagles. Gene would reminisce fondly of his Coast Guard days. He had a love for flying and was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed exploring the wonder of God's nature through hiking, fishing, camping, and skiing. He was a great, loving father and he will be remembered fondly.

Services are private. Interment with military honors will be in Bath National Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 435 E. Henrietta Rd., Rochester, NY 14620. Arrangements are by Johnson-Kennedy Funeral Home, Inc., Canandaigua. Condolences may be offered at www.johnsonkennedy.com. or to:

Nicole Conway
2275 Bolles Hill Rd.
Apalachin, NY 13732
Updated 1/29/2021
Capt. James Ronald Putek

I want to inform you that Captain James Ronald Putek passed away Monday, January 25 from Covid. He started out with Piedmont and retired after they merged with USAirways. He was proud to be a member of Soaring Eagles.
Loving wife,
Tricia Putek

Obituary

Captain James Ronald Putek, age 75 of Alpharetta, died January 25, 2021. Captain Putek was born in Chicago, Illinois and he was a retired airline pilot from Piedmont Airlines and USAirways. He was a decorated Army veteran having served in the Vietnam War, where he received the following awards: National Defense Service Medal, Bronze Star with 1 Oak Leaf Cluster: Air Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with one Silver and one Bronze Service Star, Army Aviator Badge: Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.

Captain Putek is survived by his wife, Tricia Putek; sister, Dolores (Stanley) Dziadus of Chicago, Illinois; sister-in-law, Mary Lou Putek of Woolrich, Pennsylvania, and his nieces and nephews: Hank Putek, Jr., Gwen Echols, Joanne Williams, Janet Putek and Jon Putek. He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Frances Putek, and his brother, Henry W. Putek Sr., Captain, USN.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Association of Vietnam Veterans of America, INC or (AVVA), 8719 Colesville Road, Suite 100, Silver Spring, MD 20910 or online at avva.org/donate.html

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, February 9, 2021 from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm at Bill Head Funeral Homes and Crematory, Duluth Chapel, (770) 476-2535. A Funeral Mass will be offered at 10:30 AM on Wednesday, February 10, 2021 at St. Benedict Catholic Church, Johns Creek, Georgia, with Fr. Paul Flood serving as the celebrant. Interment will be at Georgia National Cemetery, Canton, Georgia.
Updated 12/29/2020
Capt. Clarence "Blake" Smith, III

Clarence "Blake" Smith, III, 82, of Holland Township, NJ, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 25, 2020 at his home.

Born March 16, 1938, and raised in Westfield, NJ, Blake settled in Holland Township, NJ in 1968. He graduated from Bordentown Military Institute and served in the United States Army for two years. His passion was aviation; he met his wife, Roganne, while he was working as a flight instructor and she was studying for her private pilot's license. He made aviation his career, first finding a position as a corporate pilot, and then moving to commercial airlines, first with Allegheny Airlines. He flew for them as the aviation industry evolved from fabric-covered aircraft to Boeing 767 jets, and the airline changed from a regional carrier to the international USAirways, from which he retired in 1998 at the age of 60.

His second passion was motorsports, 2 and 4 wheeled. One outlet for that was his purchase and management of a Yamaha dealership, Flemington Cycle, in Flemington, NJ. He was involved with that from 1973 through 1987 when he and his wife sold the franchise. From 1988 until his passing he was heavily involved with the BMW Car Club of America. In the beginning, he was interested in high-performance driving, and as his experience grew he moved on to instructing students in high-performance driving. He eventually took on the role of Chief Instructor for the NJ Chapter of the BMW CCA, and then Head of the Instructor Training Program. He was called upon by other car clubs and organizations (Ferrari Car Club, Trackmasters, and others) to help develop instructor training programs for their events.

Above all, Blake and his wife Roganne were very enthusiastic grandparents and greatly enjoyed spending time with their family.

Son of the late Clarence Blake and Eleanor F. (Pippy) Smith, II, Blake is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Roganne (Goodwin) Smith, his sons Geoffrey Smith and his wife Maria of Manassas, VA, and Bradford Smith and his wife Arabez of Ithaca, NY, and his five grandchildren Zachary, Tilden, Wesley, Blake, and Eva. Blake is predeceased by his beloved son Christopher Matthew Smith in 1991, as well as his brother George Smith.

The family will receive relatives and friends for a visitation on Wednesday, December 30, 2020 from 3-5 PM at the Johnson-Walton Funeral Home, 24 Church Road, Holland Township, NJ. A Celebration of Blake's Life and interment at Milford Union Cemetery will be held privately at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Milford-Holland Rescue Squad, 151 Water Street, Milford, NJ 08848.

Updated 12/29/2020
Capt. Robert Kuehnle

Captain Robert Kuehnle passed away on Dec. 13, 2020. Bob was born on Dec. 1, 1932, and hailed from the Philadelphia area. Bob was hired by Allegheny in 1962 and moved to Virginia in 1966 as he was based in DCA. Bob retired from USAir in 1992 after thirty years of service. Bob continued to fly light aircraft well into his seventies, and also loved to sail when he wasn't flying. He is survived by his wife Betty, and his daughters (Jen) Jennifer, Julie, Katia, and their significant others, and a granddaughter Gloria.

I had the opportunity and pleasure to fly with Bob as a new hire co-pilot in DCA in 1967. He was a pleasure to be around and to fly with. (From Capt. Joe Kernan)

May he Rest in Peace.

No services are planned at this time due to Covid restrictions.

Cards of condolence may be sent to :
Betty Kuehnle
5900 Wilson, Blvd.
Apt # 361
Arlington, Va. 22205

For those who wish to make a memorial donation in Captain Kuehnle's name, you may do so at USAir Soaring Eagles Save Our Stinson Fund. Captain Paul Sturpe Treasurer 8860 Peninsula Dr, Terrell, N.C. 28682

Updated 12/6/2020
Capt. Edward Joseph Slattery, Jr.

Captain Edward Joseph Slattery, Jr., age 93, of Belleair, captained his final flight on November 29, 2020. This flight touched down where he could meet the lord, his predeceased son, Eddie, his parents Edward J. Sr. and Kathleen Slattery, his siblings Shirley Pettit, Pixie O'Connor, Michael Slattery, and his pilot friends that had also "gone West". He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 73 years, Nancee; Eight surviving children, Matthew (Donna), Daniel (Sheila), Terry (Jimmy) Sullivan, Steven, Melanie Bautel, Nancee (Bill) Laursen, James (Donna), and Christopher (Keli); 21 grandchildren; and 31 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. He also is survived by his brother Thomas (Nancy) and a sister, Patricia (Dr. Ron) Blackman.

A 7th generation Washingtonian, "Eddie Joe" grew up in Washington, DC, attended Gonzaga HS, and graduated from Western HS. He then enlisted in the Army Air Corps in 1944 so that he could serve his country and fulfill his dream of becoming a pilot. When World War II ended in 1945, he landed a job with All American Airways (which later became Allegheny Airlines, then US Airways, and now American Airlines). Ed ("Slats") started as a Flight Agent, but was promoted quickly to co-pilot, then captain. He became a well-respected senior pilot with the company until his retirement in 1986. He was involved in many pilot organizations throughout his retirement years including the Quiet Birdmen, Experimental Aircraft Association, and USAir Soaring Eagles (Retired Pilots & Flight Attendant Organization).

Ed was a natural mechanic, who loved working on cars, motorcycles, and airplanes. He owned a few gas stations during his working years and would be there full-time when not flying. These businesses gave him the opportunity to both work on vehicles and to give the neighborhood boys a place to work, learn, and become men. His generous, caring, helpful personality affected literally thousands of people that he encountered. He had a countless number of friends across the United States. He also never passed a hitchhiker without saying: "Hop in."" He never passed a broken-down car without stopping and asking: "What seems to be the trouble?"

Family always came first for Ed, raising nine children with Nancee. He sometimes would fly back during a working trip just to make a championship ball game or to cheer up a sick child! He was very supportive of his family in all their endeavors. Ed's generosity to others was only exceeded by his love for his family.

When Ed realized his final flight was about to embark, he simply wanted to stick a picture-perfect, smooth landing. We are certain he achieved this goal on his most important flight because he never missed a landing in his entire life. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends. The celebration of Ed's life has just begun and his impact on every person he met will resonate for generations. The family would like to thank all the doctors and nurses that cared for Ed.

In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to one of the following:

Morton Plant Mease Health Care Foundation
Designated to Cardiology programs
1200 Druid Rd
S. Clearwater, FL 33756.

E. A. A. Young Eagles Chapter 282
1000 N Hercules Ave
Clearwater, FL 33765

USAir Soaring Eagles S. O. S. Fund
For restoration of original Air Mail Pickup Stinson
Captain Paul Sturpe Treasurer
8860 Peninsula Dr
Terrell, N.C. 28682-9796

A celebration of Ed's life will be announced at a later date.

Updated 12/1/2020
Capt. Robert M. Toth

Robert M. Toth, 76, of Brighton Twp., passed away Friday, November 20, 2020, at Heritage Valley, Beaver.

Born April 6, 1944, in Pittsburgh, he was a proud veteran of the U.S. Navy, having been a lifetime member of the Vietnam Veterans of America, and an active member of the American Legion Chapter 481, Midland, where he served in the American Legion Honor Guard. Robert worked for over 40 years in the airline industry, having started his career with Eastern Airlines, and ending with USAirways. Upon his retirement, he and his wife Jacqueline loved being Florida "snowbirds." He was a faithful member of the United Methodist Church of Beaver.

Robert will be greatly missed by his wife of 55 years, Jacqueline Toth, Brighton Twp.; son, Shawn Toth, Ohioville; daughter, Tara Toth McKay, Fallston; one sister, Shirley (Sherwin) Houser, Pittsburgh; along with grandchildren, Jesse, Shannon, Travis, Jacob, Andrew, and Cody. Robert was happily awaiting his first great-grandson due in December.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Joseph Toth.

Friends will be received Monday, November 23, 2020, from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. in the NOLL FUNERAL HOME INC., 333 Third St., Beaver, where a funeral service will be conducted Tuesday, November 24, 2020, at 11 a.m. Online condolences may be shared at nollfuneral.com.

Updated 11/30/2020
Capt. Larry Carl Niebanck

On Thursday, October 29, 2020, Larry Niebanck, a loving husband and father of two, passed away at the age of 81. Larry was born and raised in Rockville Centre, New York.
After receiving his degree from SUNY- Farmingdale, he was accepted into Officer's Candidate School in Pensacola, FL., where he received his Naval Aviator Wings. He flew the P3-Orion with Squadron VP8 for 5 years.
After leaving the Navy, he began his commercial airline career with Mohawk Airlines in '63 and retired from USAir after 32 years.
He was an avid reader of history, a builder of model planes and he always played the piano to complete the day.
Larry is survived by his wife Dottie of 56 years, son Jim, and wife Donna of Chatham, NJ, daughter Karen and son-in-law Scott of Merritt Island, FL., 6 grandchildren, Maddi, Charlie, Bridget, Alex, Matthew and Noah, his brother Bruce of Mississippi.
If you wish, please honor the Wounded Warriors Project in Larry's name.
Updated 10/22/2020
Gail Boyd

Life Member Gail Boyd passed away Oct. 20, 2020 in West Palm Beach, FL. Gail had sustained injuries in a fall about a month before and apparently was never able to recover. The information at this time is very sketchy, and when we have a complete obituary, we will post it.
Updated 9/25/2020
Captain Wayne Coburn "Coby" Johnson

Wayne "Coby" Johnson 71, passed away Sunday, September 20 ,2020 at Lower Cape Fear Life Care Center. Coby was born January 18, 1949 in Cleveland, Ohio to Wayne C and Cynthia Cook Johnson who predeceased him.

Coby's life was filled with aviation. His first flying lesson was at age 12 in Chardon, Ohio. He received a private license while studying at Kenyon College in 1970 where he studied Psychology. He joined the Air Force Reserve in November 1971 at Rickenbacker AFB, Columbus, Ohio where he flew Reserve C-123s, C-130's and C-141s at Rickenbacker, Westover and Andrews AFB respectively. He also flew C123 and C130 missions world wide in support of 2nd Air Delivery Group in SE Asia during Vietnam and the USAF Southern Command based in Panama and Central America.

In May, 1986 Coby Joined Piedmont Airlines which eventually became US Airways Airlines, retiring as a Captain in 2004. He flew B-737s, B-757s, B-767s totaling over 18000+ career flying hours. Coby was employed by The FAA before and after his airline career working in the FAA's NY Air Carrier District Office and Eastern Region from 1979-1985 and at FAA Washington Headquarters from 2004 until his retirement in January 2016.

He is survived by his wife Mary Johnson; his son Chris Johnson, spouse Shannon, grandchildren Adam and Ryan. Daughter Courtney O'Brien, spouse Andrew, grandchildren Emma, Lillian and Abigail. Brother Jeffery Johnson, sister Suzanne Robinson and their spouses. A Memorial to celebrate his life will be held at a future date.

Please share memories and condolences with the family by clicking on the "Post a Condolence" tab below. Wilmington Funeral & Cremation 525 Village Road, Leland NC 28451 910.383.3511 www.wilmingtoncares.com/obituary/wayne-coby-johnson/
Updated 8/2/2020
Captain John W "Jack" Crouse, Jr.
John W, (Jack) Crouse, Jr., 84, of Log Road, Smithfield, died July 22, 2020 in RI Hospital, Providence. He was the husband of Janice (Barnes) Crouse. They had been married for almost 60 years. Born in East Providence, the son of the late John W. Crouse, Sr. and Anna Elizabeth (Moriarty.) He had lived in Smithfield for 47 years previously living in Johnston.

Jack always had a passion for flying. As a teenager, he joined the Civil Air Patrol. In November, 1956, then attached to the 143rd RIANG, he was admitted to the Air Force pilot training program, from which he was graduated, with class 58-J, as a 2nd Lieutenant in March 1958. He returned to Rhode Island where he was a member of the 143rd Special Operations Group (RIANG), retiring in December 1972 as a Major. He spent a number of the following years attached with the AF Reserves. In March of 1962, he was hired by Mohawk Airlines, later to be absorbed by Allegheny Airlines and and then renamed USAIR where he retired in May 1996 after 34 years. Jack was a member of several pilot organizations: RIPA, RIQB, and Soaring Eagles and also the S.C.R.G. club.

Besides his wife he leaves his children, John W. Crouse III of Smithfield, fiancee, Denise Benetti, Lee-Anne Albanese and her husband Gene of Pascoag and Lynne Driscoll and her husband Mark of Exeter. He was the grandfather of Jennifer E. Kaprielian and her husband Jeffrey R., Matthew J. Allin, Kyleigh A. Driscoll and Conor A. Driscoll. He was the great-grandfather of Logan A. Kaprielian. He was the brother of Thomas R. Crouse (Angela) of Cranston and the late James F. Crouse (Barbara) of Michigan. Visition Wednesday, July 29, 2020 4-7pm in the Anderson-Winfield Funeral Home, Route 44 at Greenville Common, Greenville. Due to COVID 19, all attendees will be required to wear a mask for visitation and to please remember to practice Social Distancing.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Operation Stand Down, 1010 Hartford Avenue, Unit 1, Johnston, RI 02929.

Because of the virus restraints, burial will be private. For condolences please visit www.andersonwinfield.net
Updated 7/30/2020
Captain Richard Patrick "Dick" Mahoney
U.S. Veteran Richard Patrick Mahoney, a resident of Mooresville, North Carolina, passed away July 14, 2020 at age 81. He was born in Patterson New Jersey March 3, 1939, and moved to Toms River, the Jersey shore, during high school and college years. Attended University of Delaware for 3 years until a Navy recruiter inspired him to become a Navy pilot. He earned his wings and became an Ensign in the US Navy. He flew P-2Vs, stationed in Brunswick, Maine and Virginia on active duty. He transitioned to the Navy Reserves and transferred to Point Magoo, California then retired as a Captain in El Toro after 26 years of service. Early on in his Navy career while in Corpus Christi, Texas, he met his beautiful wife, Patricia Connelly. Years later he was proud to commission his daughter as an Ensign in the US Navy after her graduation from college.

When he transferred to the Navy Reserves, he became a commercial pilot with Continental Airlines and moved his family to Huntington Beach, California. After 15 years, he move onto USAirways and flew another 15 years before retiring at 60 years old in Cornelius, North Carolina, in 1999. During retirement he was actively involved with Habitat for Humanity and traveled to Guatemala 10 different times to help build homes. He was also an active member of Saint Mark's Catholic Church in Huntersville, NC and the Knights of Columbus.

He cherished his time with his daughters during family trips. There were skiing trips to Mammoth, and Lake Tahoe, California and throughout Colorado. There were many backpacking trips with the Girl Scouts ending with a trip to Yosemite, conquering Half Dome. Most recently, the family ventured out to Whitefish Montana for white water rafting and fishing derbies.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Patricia Connelly Mahoney, and daughters Eileen Mahoney, Erin Mahoney Thompson, Katie Hagmann and Meghan Orlik, and 5 grandkids.

Services will be held Monday, July 20 at Saint Mark's in Huntersville. There will be a viewing at 10:15 am followed by a mass at 11:00.
Address: 14740 Stumptown Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078
www.raymerf.com

Donations in Captain Mahoney's honor can be made to:
Levine & Dickson
Hospice House
11900 Vanstory Dr.
Huntersville, NC 28078
Captain Ronald "Ronnie" Howell Posted 7/12/2020
So dad went West sometime in the last week or two....I hear it already....what do you mean sometime. Don't you know the date? Ahhh, that's the gotcha, days on a calendar are just that..no dad counted moments. Hey Brant remember the moment we set the carriage stone in front of the fireplace...yeah I remember it like yesterday...or hey Brant remember the moment we were putting up the Tarzan swing and we all did the Tarzan cry and beat on our chests...yeah like yesterday. My life is full of those moments. And that is what's so wonderful about this gift of life we have been given..... moments in time are our currency ...collect as many as you can...after all they are free, cherish them like gold.
Brant Howell
'OBITUARY FOR CAPTAIN LOUIS ROBERT NELSON SR.' Posted 6/30/2020
Captain Louis Robert Nelson Sr. passed away June 13, 2020 after suffering a heart attack at the hospital in Clearwater, Florida. Louis was the second of five children born October 16, 1930 to Jennes C. Nelson Sr. and Mildred Inez (Farrell) Nelson in Ripley, Maryland.
After graduating from LaPlata High School in 1948, Louis spent two years in the United States Air Force, then eight years in the Air National Guard as a senior aircraft mechanic, then eight years in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Reserves. From there he became an airline pilot with Allegany Airlines in 1960 that became USAir that became USAirways and now American Airlines during his 25-year career retiring as a Captain.
He married Eleanor Phillips in 1953 and had two sons, Louis Robert (Bob) Nelson Jr. and John Dashiel Nelson. In 1975 he married Carol Griffith. Prior to retirement, he went through three different motor homes driving all over the United States, Canada and Mexico. Upon retirement, Louis and Carol moved to the Florida Keys where he had many years enjoying his love of the water with boating, fishing and scuba diving going through three different boats on this journey.
After Hurricane Irma wiped out their home on the Keys, Louis and Carol relocated on the West Coast in Seminole, Florida.
Louis was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife Eleanor Phillips and his brother Jennes. He is survived by his wife, Carol, his sons Bob and John, stepson Brigadier General Scott F. "Rock" Donahue (U.S. Army, Retired) and his wife Nancy; step grandson Major Eric Donahue and his wife Major Claudia Donahue and their children Teddy, Julian and Scotty; step granddaughter Jenna and her husband Major Leo Pacheco and their children Ryan, Addison and Sophie; step-granddaughter Taylor Donahue and her daughter Mya; step-granddaughter Morgan Donahue and her husband John and their son Beau; daughter-in-law Carolyn; grandchildren Louis R. Nelson III and his wife Cindy and their children Louis R. Nelson IV, Jack and Josie; Kimberly and her husband Robert Depaulo Jr. and their children Tripp, Brio and Luca; Bethany and her son Seamus; step granddaughter Armanda and her husband Richie Woodard and their children Tristan, Liam and Scarlet; step grandson Chris Hoyle and his wife Alexie Ferre and their children Miles and Soreen; his sister Betty and her husband Michael Ellis; his brother Harold and his wife Caroline and his brother Francis Nelson. And his beloved "daughter" Inga Upshaw and her husband Bill. Many nieces and nephews.
Louis served in the choir in his younger days at the Lutheran church of Our Savior, a congregation help started by his grandparents who emigrated from Denmark in the mid 1800's and continued to attend anytime he returned to the area to visit family.
A celebration of life will be held at the Lutheran Church of Our Savior in Bryans Road, Maryland on June 24, 2020 with a viewing from 10 to 11 a.m., the service at 11 a.m., the burial at Mount Rest Cemetery in LaPlata, Maryland.
If desired, memorial donations may be made to:
The Lutheran Church of Our Savior
7365 Indian Head Highway
Bryans road, MD 20616
Posted 6/14/2020

Captain Thomas Sierer:

It is always difficult saying goodbye to someone we love and cherish. Family and friends must say goodbye to their beloved Thomas Allen Sierer (Titusville, Florida), who passed away at the age of 76, on June 11, 2020. You can light a candle in honor of Thomas Allen Sierer.
Posted 6/14/2020

Captain Danny B. Hamby:

Danny B. Hamby passed into eternal life June 10, 2020.

He leaves behind his beloved wife, Sally and four children, Monique (Dave), Paulette, Nicole (Steve) and Scott (Debbie) from his former wife, Sharon Hamby, 10 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. He also leaves behind his brother John Hamby (Phylis) of Texas.

Born in Beaumont TX in 1942, joined the Air Force in 1960, followed by a career as a pilot and check-airman with USAirways, retired in 2000, after which he flew the Orlando Magic for 8 years.

He had a very full active life, traveling the globe from Australia to China and everywhere in between. His passion was golf and was fortunate to be able to play world-famous courses. No services are planned at this time.
Posted 6/12/2020

Captain Nevin Remaley:

Captain Nevin Earl Remaley, 94, of Florida, formerly of Lehighton passed away June 2nd in Edgewater Florida. Born in Lehighton, he was a son of the late Lee & Dora (Shafer) Remaley. He served our country with the US Navy during WW II and later worked for USAir as a pilot and was very grateful to the Arner family (Lehighton) for aviation instruction. He was predeceased by a sister Fern Boyer & a brother, Russell. Nevin stated that mandatory retirement from aviation piloting was the worst day of his life. He regretted not marrying & having children but he enjoyed all the friends he made in the local community especially at The Normal Square Inn. Nevin was a member of The Lehighton American Legion Post 314, Zion UCC, and The Soaring Eagles. Funeral services & Interment will be private at the convenience of the family. Memorial Contributions may be made to The Lehighton Boys & Girls Band: The Nevin E. Remaley Music Scholarship Fund. Online condolences can be offered at www.ovsakfh.com
Posted 5/15/2020

Captain Charles H. "Charlie" Hoffman:

Charles Henry Hoffman, Jr., 79, of Severna Park, passed away on May 11, 2020 at his home, following a lengthy illness. Charles was born to the late Charles H. Hoffman, Sr. and Dorothy Hoffman on July 5, 1940 in Mount Kisco, NY, where he was raised. He graduated from the University of Miami then served in the U.S. Airforce from 1957-1961. He then attended Burnside-Ott Aviation Training Center for flight school. Charles began his flight career with Mohawk Airlines which eventually became USAir. His career spanned over 33 years retiring as Captain from US Airways in 2000. In 1985, he married Barbara J. (nee Schrage) and this past October they celebrated 34 years together. In 2001, he started his own construction company, Alexis Building Construction, in Severna Park from 2001-2005. In 2006, Charles suffered severe injuries in a private plane crash and battled a challenging recovery. Charles spent his leisure time watching baseball. He is survived by his wife Barbara; three sons Robert, George and Douglas Hoffman; one daughter Alexis Hoffman; three grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. A memorable gathering may be held at a later date. Online condolences may be made at: www.barrancofuneralhome.com
Good guy always had a smile on his face when he greeted you. R.I. P.
Posted 1/29/2020

Captain Ed O'Brien:

Ed O'Brien passed away October 31, 2019. He had taken a bad fall a few months earlier and fractured his neck. After several hospitalizations and rehab attempts, he finally had a massive stroke.

Ed began his professional career as a Naval Aviator. He flew for Braniff 1967-1982 then went on to Piedmont and USAir before his age 60 retirement in 1996. Ed lost his wife, Pat, around 10 years ago and had been living in Encinitas, CA just north of San Diego. Ed and Pat had three children, Beckie Holmes, Michael and Thom. He was 83 years old when he passed away.

In accordance with Ed's wishes, he was cremated and there was no obituary or formal service. The family had a private ceremony in December where they scattered his ashes in the San Diego harbor.
Posted 1/9/2020

Captain Don Greenfield:

Don Greenfield, at 83 years of age, entered Heaven's Gates on the morning of Wednesday, January 8, 2020. He was born in Pontiac, Illinois on Sunday, May 3, 1936. Don proudly served in both the United States Marine Corp and the Navy, discharging as a Navy Lieutenant.

He found his calling as a pilot and Captain, until his retirement. During his career, Don worked with Braniff International, Piedmont Airlines and USAir. He was a member of First Christian Church, the Air Line Pilots Assoc. International, VFW Post, the American Legion, Braniff Silver Eagles and the USAir Soaring Eagles.

He is preceded in death by his Parents William Henry and Mabel Louise (Arford) Greenfield and brother James Kirk Greenfield. Left to cherish his memories are his beloved wife of 59 years, Shirley Greenfield; daughter Donna Williams and husband Todd; daughter Susan Hall and husband Russell; sister Jeanie Carroll and husband Randy; grandchildren Austin, Garrett, Kaitlyn, Nicholas and Joshua as well as numerous extended loving family and friends.

The family will receive friends between 5:00 and 7:00pm, on Sunday January 12, 2019 at Brown's Memorial Funeral Home, 707 N. MacArthur Blvd in Irving, TX.

A funeral service will be held 2:00pm, Monday, January 13, 2019 also at the funeral home with an interment at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens immediately following. To view or sign click on the Memory Wall https://memorials.brownmem.com/don-greenfield/4072113/obituary.php. The family request memorial donations to the Alzheimer's Association by clicking on ALZ-Care Inc. https://store.heartfeltsympathies.com/tributes/4072113/don-greenfield/hfs/donations/product.php?productId=MTG-8EBEBB6D-3AFF-E411-8251-005056B650AE
Posted 12/30/2019

Captain David Byron Kelley Obituary:

David Byron Kelley, age 82, "has Flown West" and passed peacefully Saturday, December 28, surrounded by family. He was born March 23, 1937, in St. Louis, MO to the late Dr. Gilbert Byron Kelley and Wilma McKee Kelley. He is predeceased by a brother, Kim Kelley.

Dave was the eldest of the Kelley Boys and is survived by brothers Terry Kelley (Mary) of Ledgewood, NJ; Tim Kelley (Donna) of Savannah, MO; Pat Kelley (Nancy) of Lee's Summit, MO; and Kevin Kelley (Karol) of St. Joseph, MO.

He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Jan Edmonds Kelley, and children David Byron Kelley, Jr. (Clara) of NYC; Chris Kelley (Sigrid) of Long Island City, NY; Jennifer Pezzimenti (Luke) of Portland, OR; Heather Holbrook (Kenneth Krawcheck) of Holden Beach, NC; and Molly Cherry (Matt) of Raleigh, NC, and grandchildren Henry, Ciara, Arianna, Jeremy, Jackson, Charles, Annabelle and William, as well as numerous friends, cousins, nieces and nephews.

Dave never tired of telling stories of the many adventures with his family and friends in his hometown of Savannah, MO. He was a helper and a role model throughout his life. An Eagle Scout, he was a member of the BSA Tribe of Mic-O-Say, and a scout master. He earned a Bachelor's degree in Animal Agriculture from the University of Missouri, Columbia and was a member of Beta Theta Pi fraternity. He loved sports including golf, surfing, water skiing, and football (he played for MIZZOU).

He joined the US Air Force, serving as a Captain flying the C-124 Globemaster during the Vietnam War and was stationed at Hickam AF Base in Honolulu, HI. Immediately following his military service, he was hired by Braniff International in 1967 before joining Piedmont Airlines in 1983. Piedmont became USAir and he retired as Captain in 1997. In retirement Dave flew the Cessna Citation as a private jet pilot for three more years.

Dave and Jan moved from High Point NC to Lockwood Folly near Holden Beach in 2002 (about 30 SW of Wilmington, NC).

The funeral service will be held at the Holden Beach Chapel on Friday, January 10 at 1:00 PM. Reception immediately following. Sign the Guestbook

In Dave's honor, donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Association (alz.org) or to the charity of your choice.
Posted 12/25/2019

Captain Herb Dudley Obituary:

Capt. Herbert L. Dudley, 88, of Edinburg, NY made his final flight West, to be with The Lord, on Wednesday, August 28. Herb passed peacefully at home after a very long illness.

He was born January 27, 1931 in Schenectady, NY, the son of George William Dudley and Olive Mae Neverman. He attended Schenectady schools and graduated from Draper High School in 1949.

He was fascinated with planes and flying from early childhood. One day a small plane flew overhead and landed in a field down the road from his then home in Guilderland. He ran to investigate and ended hitching his first plane ride. His path was set, he had to fly. From that moment he would do anything required to advance his aviation career. His flight training was all at local airports, whenever he could earn enough money for an hour or two of flight training.

That career that ranged from cargo flights to Europe to being stationed above the Arctic circle for 6 weeks at a time during the "50's Cold War, delivering supplies for the construction of the Distant Early Warning Line, Executive Flying for GE, then as the youngest pilot ever to fly for GE Flight Test, and finally as a captain for US Airways, retiring after 29 years there.

Herb was a member of the USAir Soaring Eagles, QB's, EAA602, and AOPA. His devotion was to God, Family, Aviation and gardening. He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Joan Koch Dudley, his son, David, and cousins, Roy Gilch & Robert Neverman.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Northampton United Methodist Church, PO Box 455, Broadalbin, NY 12025, Mountain Valley Hospice, 108 Steele Ave., Gloversville, NY 12078, or EAA Young Eagles Foundation. Calling hours were on Wednesday Sept. 4 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Northville Funeral Service. The funeral was at the Northville Funeral Service at noon on Thursday, Sept.5 with burial at Robinson Cemetery, Edinburg, followed by a reception at the Edinburg Fire House.
Posted 12/18/2019

Captain Jack Semenko Obituary:

John (Jack) F. Semenko
July 6, 1927 ~ December 15, 2019 (age 92)

John F. (Jack) Semenko, born July 6, 1927 in Mt. Pleasant, PA, transitioned into the arms of his Lord surrounded by his family on December 15, 2019. Son of the late Peter and Mary (Molchan) Semenko, Jack was a 1944 Graduate of South Huntingdon High School and attended Penn State for one semester before enlisting in the U.S. Navy in 1945. He served aboard the USS Colonial in the South Pacific during WWII.

Jack's passion was flying, and he had a long and successful career in Pittsburgh as Captain, Pilot Base Manager, Regional Director and, eventually, Chief Pilot of Flying for USAir. He felt very privileged to do something he loved for so many years.

Preceding him in death besides his parents were his son Michael (an Orthodox priest) and sister Dorothy. He is survived by his loving wife, Kathryn, of 71 years, his triplet granddaughters whom he loved dearly, Melissa (Jeffrey) Matrazzo, Stephanie (Kenneth) Lauffer, Kristin (Christopher) Shay, 3 lovely great-granddaughters, Nadine and Tessa Lauffer, and Lily Matrazzo, beloved sister MaryLou (Jack) Ostroski, daughter-in-law Sharon, several much-loved nieces and nephews, and many loyal friends.

He was a member of St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church in Ambridge where he served as board member and president for several years. He was also a member of the USAirways Soaring Eagles, Quiet Birdmen, a lifetime member of the Yukon Volunteer Fire Dept, the V.F.W., American Legion, and the Airline Pilots Association. He faithfully volunteered his time weekly at his much-loved Mcguire Memorial for over 10 years. He was an avid sportsman and made numerous hunting and fishing trips out West and to Canada and Alaska. He was also a member of the Kinzua Fish and Wildlife Conservation Organization. He was loved by many and will be greatly missed.

Visitations will be held on Friday from 2 until time of Parastas at 7:30 P.M. in the John Syka Funeral Home, 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge, PA 15003 from where translation of church will take place at 8 P.M. Family and friends are invited to attend a funeral service on Saturday at 10 A.M. in the St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church, 450 Glenwood Drive, Ambridge, with Rev. Father Vincent Dranginis officiating. Interment will follow in the Resurrection Cemetery.

The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Good Samaritan Hospice Heritage Valley in Beaver for their loving and dedicated care during Jack's final weeks of life, and also his faithful priest, Father Vincent, for his time and devotion.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to his home church St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church, Mcguire Memorial Home (2119 Mercer Rd, New Brighton 15066), Good Samaritan Hospice Heritage Valley Beaver Unit (1000 Dutch Ridge Rd 4th floor, Beaver, PA 15009), or a church of your choice.

To send flowers to John (Jack) F. Semenko's family, please visit our floral section.

NOTE: The Funeral service is at 10:00 Am not 11:00 AM as previously posted. Also note that any pilots who can still wear their uniforms are encouraged to do so out of respect for Jack. He'd like that.
Posted 12/17/2019

Captain Jack Semenko Arrangements:
A viewing will be held at John Syka Funeral Home (833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge PA 15003) on Friday, December 20th from 2pm until 8pm.
A liturgy for burial will be held at St. John's Orthodox Church (450 Glenwood Drive, Ambridge PA 15003) on Saturday, December 21st at 10 am. (note change) followed by a short, graveside service at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery (100 Resurrection Rd, Coraopolis, PA 15108).
Posted 11/23/2019

Obituary
Charles W Croco, 84, passed away in his sleep on November 18, 2019. He was born at West Penn Hospital in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania, the son of Charles P. and Ruth A. Croco.

Chuck grew up in the Pittsburgh area, he moved to Buffalo with his family and graduated from high school there. He attended Carnegie Mellon University where he received a Bachelor's of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering, followed by a Master's Degree in Industrial Administration. He worked at Westinghouse as an engineer; he learned to fly airplanes in his spare time. In 1966 he was hired by Allegheny Airlines, he enjoyed this career until retiring in 1994 from US Airways where he flew internationally as a Captain on a Boeing 767.

Married for nearly 55 years to his loving wife Carol, they lived happily in Peters Township for 48 years, raised their sons, and traveled the world.

He was a wonderful father to his sons Douglas and his wife Cathy Jo, Jeffrey, Bradley, and Phillip and his wife Brandy. His six grandchildren will always cherish his memory; Laura, Alyssa, Gregory, Mark, Henry and Charlotte.

Visitation
When
Saturday, November 23rd, 2019 10:00am - 12:00pm Service
Location
Beinhauer - Peters Township
Address
2828 Washington Road
McMurray, PA 15317

Posted 10/30/2019

Captain Lester A. Roberts Obituary

Lester A. Roberts, 84, of Carmel, Indiana, passed away October 23, 2019. He was born January 14, 1935, in Hortonville, Indiana, the son of the late Pliny and Velma (Kellam) Roberts. He married Rose M. Gross, from Greentown, Indiana, on July 6, 1957.

Lester graduated from Westfield High School in 1953, proudly at the top of his class. After graduation, he worked at the Marmon-Harrington Company and then Allison Division of General Motors in Indianapolis, as a mechanical draftsman. He attended various civilian correspondence schools, Air Force Pilot/Officer Candidate School and The Industrial War College of the Armed Forces.

Lester was employed for thirty-eight years as an airline pilot from 1957-1995, and flew for Capital Airlines, Lake Central, Allegheny, and US Airways. He flew the world's first four engine airliner, the DC-4. He also flew the world's first turbo-prop airliner, the British Vickers Viscount.

Lester also spent twenty-three years in the U.S. Air Force, Indiana Air National Guard, and the U.S Air Force Reserve, serving from 1953-1976, and retired as a full colonel. Lester joined as an Airman Basic, 113th Fighter Squadron, later advancing to Fighter Squadron Commander in 1971 as a Lt. Colonel. Also worth noting is that he became a "Mach Buster" by flying through the sound barrier in an F-86F at the age of twenty. He even managed to win the unit's Top Gun award in 1972, in the F100. Miraculously, he walked away from two of his three emergency landings in F84s and saved two of the airplanes. Newspaper headlines read, "Guard Pilot Lands with Dead Engines," "Jet's Engine Quits, Pilot Lands Safely," and "Jet Crash Avoided at Air Base."

Colonel Roberts realized that flying was for him while taking flying lessons in Sheridan, Indiana, and piloting his first solo journey. He went on to accumulate over twenty-nine thousand flight hours in airline, military, and civilian aircraft. He purchased and enjoyed flying several private airplanes including a two-seater Piper Vagabond, a Cessna 182, and finally an American Legend Cub. The Cessna made two trips to Alaska, several nonstop flights to Florida, as well as many other places in the United States.

In addition to flying, Lester was a builder, contractor, developer, and landlord. He enjoyed managing investments, including several orange groves in Florida. He enjoyed traveling for pleasure and taking many family trips. They traveled by train in 1977 from Denver to Salt Lake City. They enjoyed a two- week bus tour of several countries in Europe in 1984, numerous spring vacations in Marco Island, Florida and a memorable cruise from Seward, Alaska to Vancouver B.C. He enjoyed outings with friends for breakfast, going to airshows in Las Vegas, attending Warren Buffet's shareholder conference in Omaha, Nebraska, as well as various other adventures with his buddies.

He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Rose Roberts; three children, Teresa (Bob) Anderson, Mary (Kurt) Auzins, and Helen (Skip) Roberts-Sorg; three grandsons, Ryan (Kristen Dittus) Anderson, Kyle Anderson, and Graham Sorg; brother, Clifford (Dianna) Roberts; and sister-in-law, Charlene Roberts. He was preceded in passing by a sister, Lenora (Bob) Montgomery; and two brothers, Albert (Mary Lou) Roberts and Chester Roberts.

Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. -11:00am, with services beginning at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 2, 2019, at Flanner Buchanan - Carmel, 325 East Carmel Drive. Online condolences may be shared by visiting flannerbuchanan.com.

Posted 10/30/2019

Captain Richard Pearson Obituary

PEARSON, Richard A. Whose life was full of family, friends, and travel, passed away peacefully at home in Scituate, surrounded by family on October 22, 2019. He was 85 years old. Born July 9, 1934, Richard was raised in Woburn, son of Ludwig and Madeline (MacDonald) Pearson. He is survived by his beloved wife of over 62 years Maureen (Mohan) Pearson, his children Leslie (Marc) Stuart of Ludlow, VT, Richard (Denise) of Natick, Nancy (Gregory) MacIsaac of Scituate, David (Christina) of Rochester, NY, Stephen (Diane) of Larchmont, NY and Andrea (Brett) Bersson of Scituate. Loving Grampy of his fifteen grandchildren, Caroline, Erik, Gregory, Kyle, Christopher, Elizabeth, Anna, Lucas, Lainie, Madeline, Catherine, Ruby, Andrew, Jack and Claire. Also survived by his sister, Lois Pearson and her late husband Stuart Lauber of Glenville, NY, and many nieces and nephews.

Richard graduated from Boston College in 1956. After serving in the U.S. Navy as a Lieutenant Commander, he realized his lifelong dream, flying as a US Airways captain for almost 30 years. Richard raised his family in Melrose, spending years in West Dennis and Naples, FL, and more recently in Scituate to be closer to family. Visiting hours will be held on Wednesday, October 30th from 9 am to 11 am at McNamara-Sparrell Funeral Home, 1 Summer Street, COHASSET, followed by a Funeral Mass at St. Anthony's Church, 10 Summer Street, Cohasset at 11:00 am. Interment is private.

Donations to honor Richard may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or to Scituate Etrusco Associates, 1 Common Street, Scituate, MA 02066. For an online guestbook, please visit www.mcnamara-sparrell.com
Posted 10/30/2019

Captain John Wholley
Obituary

Captain John J. Wholley, 94, of Windham, NH died Monday, October 16th (2017) at Windham Terrace, Windham, NH.

John was born and educated in Lawrence, MA and graduated from Lawrence High School. He served his country in the US Navy during WW II. John graduated from Cornell University in New York. He was a Captain and Chief Pilot at US Airways in Boston, MA. John taught flight school at the Lawrence Airport for many years and owned and operated Merrimack Valley Seaplane Base in Methuen, MA. He enjoyed traveling and walking. He was devoted to his family and he loved his dogs.

John will be sadly missed by his beloved wife, Patricia (Zukofski) Wholley of Windham, NH; his stepchildren, Nancy Drago and husband Jack of Boxford, MA and Corey Martell and wife Caroline of Haverhill, MA; his grandchildren, Robert and Courtney Martell and Nicholas and John Drago; his great granddaughter, Rylee Martell; his niece, Diane Wholley of PA and his furry friend, Tubby.

He was predeceased by his stepson, Robert Martell.

Services will be private for the family. The Douglas & Johnson Funeral Home, 214 Main St., Salem, NH is assisting the family with the arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, donations in John's name may be sent to: Merrimack Valley Feline Rescue, 63 Elm St., Salisbury, MA 01952.
Posted 10/9/2019
Captain William Tracy Obituary

William Tracy of Sarasota Florida, passed away on October 3, 2019. Beloved husband, of Jacqueline Tracy, father of Gary and Terry Tracy, grandfather of Connor and Brooke Fitzgerald. Bill was a veteran in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War. Captain Bill Tracy spent 25 years as an airline pilot with USAir/American Airlines retiring from Washington, DC to the Sarasota area. Bill was a avid car collector and business man specializing in restoring Jaguars, Ferrari's and other exotics. He manufactured and imported/exported jaguar parts for over 50 years. He will be dearly missed.
Posted 10/1/2019
Captain Bill Patchett Obituary

William Thomas Patchett, Sr., passed away on Friday, September 27, 2019, at the age of 83. He was a remarkable man who loved life and loved his dear family; Eileen, his wife of 63 years; his five children, William T. Patchett, Jr. and Vera of Warrenton, Jane Coppage of Goldvein, VA, James J. Patchett and Mary Sue of Brentwood, TN, Crickett Henry and Hugh of China, and Linda M. Minter of Rock Hill, SC; and his brother, Donald Patchett and Robin of Colbert, WA. He leaves a beautiful legacy of 16 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Angela Patchett, his brother, David Patchett, and his son-in-law, JC Minter, Jr.

Bill had a love for aviation from the time he was a young boy, riding his bicycle for many miles to the airport to wash small airplanes in the hopes that a pilot would give him a ride. He worked toward his dream as an aircraft mechanic with the Air National Guard. He later flew small aircraft, hauled freight and did all he could to build up his flying time with the goal of being a commercial airline pilot. Finally in 1964, his dream was realized when he was hired with Mohawk Airlines, which later became Allegheny Airlines; and his career culminated as captain with USAir. In addition to his flying career, Bill further enjoyed building and restoring airplanes, and he loved flying his PT-19 in the Flying Circus in Bealton, VA. Almost as much as he loved flying, he enjoyed rounds of golf with friends and riding on his Harley, including the annual Ride to the Wall. He volunteered his time and expertise in restoring computers for Haiti, as well as volunteering at Old Busthead. Throughout his life, Bill remained a man committed to his faith, a member of St. John's in Warrenton, VA, for 48 years, and served with the Knights of Columbus. His family is eternally grateful and forever the better because of this man in their lives. He will be greatly missed.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. John's Catholic Church, 271 Winchester Street, on Wednesday, October 2, at 11:00am, followed by a luncheon in the Parish Hall at noon. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to a charity of your choice.

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of William T. 'Bill' Patchett, Sr., please visit our Tribute Store.
Posted 9/29/2019
Capt. Bill Patchett passed away early September 28, 2019 after spending a lengthy time at Fairfax Hospital fighting a rare blood bacterial infection.
No more details at this time. We will post further details as soon as we receive them.
Bill Patchett
7261 Baldwin Ridge Rd.
Warrenton Va 20187
Posted 9/20/2019
I am saddened by the passing of Charlie. He was never without a smile and a pleasure to be with. Charlie was happy and he made you happy. Charlie and I shared one fact at Mohawk. We were the shortest pilots hired. He was 5' 5 1/2' and I was 5' 5". He will be missed by all his friends and they are many. Rest my friend.
Eric Litt
Posted 9/19/2019
Flown West - Captain Charlie Boivin
Captain Charlie Boivin Flew West July 5, 2019.

Obituary of Charles Boivin
Charles F. Boivin 1924 - 2019
Charles F. Boivin, 94 of Deansboro, NY, formerly of Florida, passed away Friday, July 5, 2019 at St. Elizabeth Medical Center, Utica, after a brief illness.

Charlie was born November 14, 1924, in Schuylerville, NY, the son of Frederick and Rose (LaPier) Boivin. He was raised and educated in Schuylerville. Charlie went on to serve with the US Army during World War II, and then transferred to the Army Air Corps. On December 5, 1948, Charles married Elizabeth "Betty" Duross, the love of his life for 58 years, in Glens Falls, NY. Betty, who lovingly would call him "Buster", passed away in 2006.

After his service, Charlie became a commercial airline pilot, first working for Mohawk Airlines in Oneida and later for USAir, based in Pittsburgh, PA, retiring as a Captain in 1984. He was a member of the American Legion Post #120, Holly Hill, FL; of the Elks Lodge #2193, Ormond Beach, FL. He flew a commemorative Air Force Aircraft T-34 at the age of 92 - a milestone for him personally as well as for the US Airforce. Charles also received the Wright Brothers Professional Pilot Award for 50 plus years of safe flying.

Charles is survived by four sons and three daughters-in-law, Charles, Jr. and Melanie Boivin, PA, Sherman Boivin, FL, Gregory and Robin Boivin, Deansboro, Daryl and Paula Boivin, PA; grandchildren, Tanya Boivin, Gregory C. (and Julie) Boivin, Charles III (and Michele) Boivin, Stafford (and Kelly) Boivin, Becky Boivin, Eva (and Anthony) Rodriguez, Jobe Boivin, Tia Rose Boivin, Thomas Boivin, Brandi Lee Boivin; as well as many great-grandchildren. Charlie also leaves two special nieces, Renee Honey and Jennifer Wojciechowski. Besides his wife, he is predeceased by a brother, Paul Boivin.

Funeral Services, entrusted to R.P. Heintz Funeral Service, Inc., 10 East Park Row, Clinton, were held privately at the convenience of the family. Interment took place privately in Saratoga National Cemetery.

Those wishing may donate to the Helmuth-Ingall's American Legion Post #232, Franklin Springs in Charlie's memory. The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff of the 3rd floor at St. Elizabeth Medical Center for the excellent care and compassion shown to Charlie and his family during his stay. Also a special thank you to Shiela Pattisan and Sara O'Dell.
Edited 9/9/2019
Flown West - Captain Dan Friel
Captain Dan Friel, Soaring Eagles Vice President, Flew West September 5, 2019.
The Loving Funeral Home of Covington, Va. is handling the arrangements.
A Graveside service will be held on:
Saturday 14 September at 2PM

Falling Springs Presbyterian Church
115 Spring Church Rd
Hot Springs, Virginia 24445

Barbara plans to set up a Memorial Service for the local Northern Virginia area at a later date.
Cards of condolence may be sent to:

Barbara Pressley
309 Chestnut Street
Falls Church, Va. 22046

Dan's brother >
Allen Friel >
P.O. Box 430 >
Hartwood, Va. 22471 >
In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to the Falling Springs Presbyterian Church listed above..
Posted 8/11/2019
Flown West - Captain Earl Bates
The following was received from Bill KIngston & Larry Channing:
Captain Earl Bates has Flown West. Earl passed away on Friday August 9, 2019 after battling lung cancer. Earl's full obituary was not available when this message was posted. Funeral arrangements for Earl Bates will be at Chapman, Cole, and Gleason, Rte 151, Mashpee: - Wake Wed, 8/14, 4-7, Service 8/15, 11-12, including military honors. Reception will follow on Thursday, 8/15, 12:30, at Wimpy's, Main St, in Osterville. No cemetery because Earl is being cremated. More information when it becomes available.
Posted 8/4/2019
Flown West - Captain Earl L Stone
CANFIELD, OHIO - Earl L. Stone, 85, passed away Aug. 2, 2019, at his home surrounded by his family. He was born Oct. 29, 1933, in Corinth, Ky., the son of the late Audrey L. and Marie (Carter) Stone.

Earl was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, serving during the Vietnam War (Cuban Crisis). He attended two years at the University of Kentucky. He was triple-rated in A.F. as navigator, radar-observer and pilot. Earl was a pilot (captain) for USAirways for 30 years, retiring in 1993. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend. Earl enjoyed his golf games at Salem Golf Club, where he had three "holes in one." He was an avid pilot and taught in the simulator for U.S. Airways for 10 years and flew light aircraft during his retirement.

Survivors include his wife, Grace (Lonis) Stone, whom he married March 8, 1958; a son, Steven C. (Vicki) Stone of Salem; two daughters, Cheryl M. (Kenneth) Beall of Newport Beach, Calif., and Susan (Ted) VanAnne of Georgetown, Texas; eight grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Besides his parents, three brothers, Donald E. Stone, William G. Stone and Howard A. Stone, also preceded him in death.

A funeral service will be held at noon on Friday, Aug. 9, 2019, at the Stark Memorial Funeral Home in Salem. Calling hours will be held from 11 a.m. to noon on Friday at the funeral home.

Military honors will be provided by Salem Honor Guard after the service. Burial will be at Hope Cemetery, with military honors provided by Salem Honor Guard.

The family would like to thank Hospice of the Valley for their compassionate care.

Please visit www.starkmemorial.com to view Earl's obituary and to send condolences online.
Posted 6/18/2019
A friend passes on:
Lydia Bulach died April 29, 2019

Cards may be sent to:
The Lydia Bulach Family
Trauberstrasse 16
Stuttgart 70186, Germany

Lydia was a Flight Attendant hired by Mohawk in 1965.
Apologies for the delay in posting this information.
Posted 6/5/2019
Flown West
Rick Osborne 1949-2019

Richard Thomas "Rick" Osborne passed away in his sleep early on May 9, 2019 at home in Cornelius, NC after a long battle with cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer). He was just three weeks shy of his 70th birthday. Rick's remains will be cremated, and a celebration of his life will be held at his home.

Rick was an Air Force brat, born in Washington, DC. He was an Eagle Scout and a 1971 graduate of the United States Air Force Academy. In the Air Force, he piloted the C-141 "Starlifter" from Charleston AFB, South Carolina. After leaving the Air Force he became a commercial airline pilot, first with Braniff International in San Antonio, Texas, then with USAirways in Charlotte, North Carolina. He retired from USAirways in 2014 to enjoy life with his friends and family on Lake Norman and shooting at the Mecklenburg Wildlife Club.

Rick was preceded in death by his father, Col. Thomas F. Osborne, USAF, and his mother, Mary R. "Fritz" Osborne. He is survived by his longtime partner Shirli de Saye, his brother Bill Osborne (Pat), his nephew Colin Osborne, and his niece Elizabeth Pina (Anthony).

To view or sign, click on Rick's Tribute Wall. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations in Rick's memory to the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation.
Posted 6/2/2019
Flown West
Ronald Harold Metzger, born August 24, 1929, in Lancaster, Ohio, died May 28, 2019 in North Venice Florida. He was surrounded by his loving family. He graduated from Lancaster High School in 1947 and from Cal-Aero Tech in 1948.

Ron received his private pilot's license at the age of 16 at the Lancaster Airport. He was employed by Anchor Hocking as a co-pilot and mechanic on their corporate airplane. He went on to attend Ohio State University and to be hired by Lake Central Airlines flying co-pilot on a DC-3. That company became Allegheny Airlines, then USAir. Ron went on to fly DC-9's, Boeing 727's and Boeing 737's serving as a captain for 28 years.

Ron is survived by his wife Doris Schmidt Metzger, his 3 children Ronald A. (Pam), Lynda Nabors (Rick), Michael W. (Pam), nine grandchildren, and 2 great grandchildren. Ron was preceded in death by his son Steven and his twin brother Donald. No services are planned at this time.

Although Ron enjoyed tennis and golf, his real passion was flying. His wife Doris reports that Ron said, " I never went to work"

Cards of condolence may be sent to:
Doris Metzger
133 Bella Terrace
Unit B
Venice Fl. 34725

In lieu of flowers , contributions may be made to:
Tidewell Hospice
5955 Rand Blvd.
Sarasota Fl. 34238
Be sure to note memory of Captain Ron Metzger
Posted 5/30/2019
Flown West
The following is per Janet Grieco.
Captain Anthony D (Dave) Grieco passed away peacefully May 28 at his home in Imperial, PA. Dave had been suffering from heart failure (something that ran in his family) and for some time just refused to give up.
Per David's wishes, there will not be a funeral or memorial service. He will be buried in the local non-denominational cemetery just five minutes from his home.
Posted 5/28/2019
Flown West
Judy Schmidt advises that Captain Ron Metzger, and Captain Dave Grieco both flew their last flights today. When more details are available they will be posted here.
Posted 5/20/2019
Flown West.
Eugene "Red" Leazenby
April 10, 1929 - May 18, 2019
Eugene (Red) Leazenby, 1929-2019, was born on April 10, 90 years ago to Martin and Agnes Leazenby in Clymers, IN and passed away May 18 in Indianapolis, IN. He was a loving husband to his wife, Dolores, for 49 years. She preceeded him in death as did his brother, Don, and his sons Bruce and Kurt. He is survived by his sons, Mark (Melody) and Brian (Brenda) Leazenby and daughter, Laura Tsareff, six grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.
Red was an Air Force veteran and a commercial airline pilot for 37 years with USAirways. Red was silly, fun and enjoyed being happy. He was a lucky guy that loved his job and traveling all over the world. In retirement he looked forward to connecting with old colleagues at Soaring Eagles and Lake Central Airline reunions. He and Dolores lived and raised their family in San Antonio, TX, Lima, OH and Pittsburgh, PA and in retirement he lived in Indiana and Florida. Red loved to spend time with his family and many friends, often with a martini in hand, and was an avid golfer and fisherman. Maybe at times the world wasn't ready for Red's arrival and his opinions, but he was always entertaining. He was a terrific storyteller and was amazed at the changes in the world and technology occurring in his lifetime and told many young people he couldn't imagine what things they would see in their lifetime.
Red most recently was a resident of Worthington Place in Camby, IN.
The family wishes to thank the staff for his care as he dealt with the effects of Alzheimer's disease. Red's life will be celebrated with a visitation on May 23, 2019 from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service at 1:00 p.m. at Simplicity Funeral and Cremation, 7520 Madison Ave., Indianapolis, IN. 46227.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer's Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL. 60601.
Posted 4/25/2019
Flown West.
Edgar H. R. "Bob" Beaupre, 81, of Deerfield Beach, Florida passed away peacefully on April 23, 2019.
Bob was born in Ottawa, Canada on June 26, 1937 to Ted and Irene Beaupre. Bob served 10 years in the Royal Canadian Air Force, then moved to Rome, NY to begin his career as a commercial airline pilot. He retired after 33 years as a Captain with USAirways flying his final flight to Paris, France. Bob loved hockey, the outdoors, especially the ocean, boating, and deep sea fishing. Bob also enjoyed showing his Rottweilers in AKC shows over 30 years. He was a member of the BPO Elks for 25+ years and currently of the Boca Raton Elks Lodge #2166.
Bob was predeceased by his Father Ted and brother Leonard Keith Beaupre. He is survived by his 100 year old Mother Irene, his wife of 41 years, Judy (Bell) Beaupre, daughters Lori Bronson (Steve), Karen Schmitt (Greg), five grandchildren: Lindsay (Shanin) , Stephan (Cybille) , Tyler (Molly), Meagan, Kyle, four great grandchildren: Shane, Blake, Ayla, Nathan, several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Alzheimer's Association for Research.
Posted 4/16/2019
Flown West.
Dear Joe,
It is with a very heavy heart that I report that my long time friend of 64 years, my Brother in Law and Retired Captain Russel N. Gries boarded his last flight Arrangements are incomplete at this time and will be sent when they become available. Condolences may be sent to his Daughter Nicole Rabner 1059 Beachwood Blvd. Pittsburgh, Pa. 15206.
Respectfully
Jay Gelm Ret..