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: 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..