PCN Flight West Page

Flt West Page___Survivor's Page____PCN Home Page_____Flight West Lists______Report a Death___About Mark__Contact Blog Admin

___ PCN FLIGHT WEST is sponsored by the Pilot Communication Network and is a service of the PCN provided for the Delta Pilot Retired family of pilot groups. Flight West was started and is maintained to accomplish two main goals. After we become aware of a colleague who has Flown West, 1. We aim to produce a “timely” notice sent to our community that allows for support and interaction from our group toward the grieving family of our friend and colleague. 2. Then, we aim to “archive” that notice on our Flown West Blogspot as a lasting accessible place of Dignity and Honor of our colleague for family legacy and posterity. Contributor contact info is generally removed before posting (unless requested otherwise).

HOME PAGE SHOWs THE 5 MOST RECENT POSTS.

Wednesday, November 30, 2016

DL Capt. Ronald A. Oeschler

~ IN MEMORY ~
DL Capt. Ron Oeschler
June 5, 1936 ~ November 18, 2016

 

We have received news with the passing of retired Delta pilot Captain Ronald Arthur Oeschler, age 80.  Captain Oeschler joined Delta Air Lines 04-01-1963 and was Houston based.  We understand Captain Oeschler succumbed to complications due lymphoma and a recent fall, but we have no other information.  I’ve not been able to locate an online obituary or funeral home memorial guestbook. 
Whitepages lists the family contact as
11511 Ruby Canyon Lane, Houston TX 77095-4866.....(713) 789-7854
Should we receive more information we will be sure to pass it along.
            Thank you,
                ~ Carol for the PCN 
 
From: Ted Langworthy     Sent: Friday, November 18, 2016 7:44 PM   To: PilotCommunicationNet@googlegroups.com
 
 

Mark. Ron Oeschler just passed away this morning. He has been ill for years with lymphoma and I was planning on going over to Houston tomorrow morning as he was told he had about 3 months to live but he fell while in the hospital and it was totally unexpected. Thanks for all you do Mark............................Ted

WA/DL Capt. Charles William Brown

~ IN MEMORY ~
WA/DL Capt. Charles William Brown
July 30, 1936 ~ November 23, 2016
 
 
Notification with the passing of Western/Delta retired pilot Captain Charles ‘Charlie’ William Brown, age 80.  Captain Brown joined Western Airlines 04-07-1969 and retired with Delta Air Lines.  He is survived by his wife Ann plus many other family members and friends. 
To view/sine the online guest book please visit http://www.lastingmemories.com/memorial/charles-william-brown 
Also, http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/montereyherald/obituary-print.aspx?n=charles-william-brown&pid=182819124  will take you to Captain Brown’s online memorial site.  For personal condolences, our records indicate the family mailing address as
P.O. Box 1393 , Pebble Beach  CA  93953  ...  (831)595-7487
Captain Brown’s obituary notes that services will be held December 2nd at 11:00 AM at First Presbyterian Church of Monterey, California.
            Thank you,
                ~ Carol for the PCN 
 
Obituary......................
Charles William Brown (1936 - 2016)
Pebble Beach, CA
Charles William Brown, of Pebble Beach, California, passed away quietly in his home on November 23rd, 2016 surrounded by his loved ones. Charlie was born on a farm in Eastern Iowa in 1936. A graduate of Iowa State University, Charlie joined the Air Force ROTC as a Second Lieutenant. He served his country as a pilot, photo mapping and surveying terrain in South America, as well as flying electronic reconnaissance missions during Vietnam. Charlie was awarded both the Air Medal & Distinguished Flying Cross for his valor and service. Upon receiving an honorable discharge at rank of Major, Charlie became a pilot for Western and later Delta Airlines. He also served in the California Air National Guard, ascending to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Later settling in Pebble Beach, Charlie was regularly seen taking long morning walks, enjoying the natural beauty of the Monterey Peninsula with his friends and neighbors. Charlie was an active member of several social clubs, including the Stillwater Club, Quiet Birdmen, and The Carmel Foundation Photographers. Photography and travel went hand-in-hand for Charlie with his favorite trips including an African photo safari, a visit to New Zealand, and guided tours of Egypt, Jordan, India, and China. Charlie will be remembered fondly for his kind heart, generous spirit, and quiet humor. He is survived by his siblings, Phil and Sarah; wife, Ann; children Bob and Caroline; and grandchildren Kate, Dulcie, Ryan, and Petra. Charlie's family is grateful for the excellent care he received from M. Zach Koontz, M.D. and the staff at the Pacific Cancer Care Treatment Center and from Patrick E. Feehan, D.O., Margaret Cornish, OSW-C, and the staff at the Comprehensive Cancer Center. Services will be held at the First Presbyterian Church of Monterey on Friday, December 2nd at 11am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Charlie's memory to Hospice of the Central Coast or The Carmel Foundation.
.Funeral Home : The Paul Mortuary
390 Lighthouse Ave Pacific Grove, CA 93950 ...  (831) 375-4191

.Published in The Monterey Herald on Nov. 29, 2016

Monday, November 28, 2016

WA/DL Capt. Thomas Boston Ryan

~ IN MEMORY ~
Military veteran, WA/DL Capt. Thomas Boston Ryan
January 6, 1929 ~ November 16, 2016
 

Notification with the passing of retired Western/Delta pilot Captain Thomas B. Ryan, age 87.  Captain Ryan joined Western Airlines 10-28-1957 and retired with Delta Air Lines in January 1989, based PDX.  Captain Ryan's obituary indicates that private services were held by the family.   
To view/sign the online guestbook please visit the funeral home website at
will also lead you to Captain Ryan's obituary.
To the best of my knowledge, personal condolences may be sent to the family at 
2232 S. Dallin St., Salt Lake City UT 84109-1119.
            Thank you,
                ~ Carol for the PCN 
 
Obituary......................

Thomas Boston Ryan born January 6, 1929, Logan, UT to Deryl Jerome Boston Ryan and Irene Dunbar Ryan, died November 16, 2016, in Salt Lake City of causes incident to age. Graduated West High, SLC, 1947 and attended BYU. Entered pilot training as an Air Force cadet, 1949. Received equivalency college education through many U.S. Air Force schools. Was a flight instructor for NATO pilots during the Korean War as a 1st LT. Later achieved rank of Major in the Utah Air National Guard, leading many flights in the States, Vietnam, and Japan. He was employed as a pilot for Frontier, Western, and Delta Airlines. Married to Norma Dee Jones for 35 years, eight children, divorced. Married to Marilyn Morrison Clements for 32 years. Survived by Marilyn and her children, also ex-wife Norma Dee Ryan.
 Throughout numerous moves around the USA, Tom served in various callings in the LDS church. He was very supportive of his sons' LDS missions and always generously paid for lessons and instruments for his musical family. He loved the great outdoors.
Tom is survived by his brother William D. Ryan (Pat). Preceded in death by his parents and brother Conrad. Thomas Ryan's posterity with Norma Dee Ryan: 8 children, 46 grandchildren, 64 great-grandchildren, 2 great-greats and several "bonus" grands and greats. Children: Wendy Hatch (deceased) (Doug); Kent Ryan (Terrie); Richard Ryan (Tricia); Bruce Ryan (MaryAnn); Daniel Ryan (deceased); Patty Stone (Greg); Judy Smith (Dan); Mary Lydia Ryan-Holt (Nick). (Daniel is survived by two former wives: Lynnette Benard Arnold and Lezlie Otto Ryan.)
Tom is also survived by Marilyn's children: Leslie Clements; Carrie Davidson (Jared); Stanford R. Clements (Tarra); C. David Clements (Jill); Douglas R. Clements (Sonia); Stephen M. Clements (Amy); and 18 grandchildren.
 Private family Services have been held.

DL Capt. Richard Lee 'Dick' Dillman

~ IN MEMORY ~
DL Capt. Richard "Dick" Lee Dillman
January 30, 1940 ~ November 24, 2016
 

 
 
Notification with the passing of retired Delta pilot Captain Richard 'Dick' Dillman, age 76.  Captain Dillman joined Delta Air Lines 01-03-1967 and retired with Delta Air Lines, based Houston.  He is survived by his wife Janelee, their children and grandchildren. 
To view/sign the online guestbook please visit the funeral home website at 
The family address is listed in whitepages as
2270 Whipporwill Road, Conroe TX 77303-5158.
Please see more information below...visitation will be this evening with funeral services tomorrow November 29th in Conroe, Texas.
            Thank you,
                ~ Carol for the PCN 
 
Obituary...................
Richard (Dick) Lee Dillman, age 76, passed away Thursday at approximately 3:45am from complications of Dementia. Dick was the second of four children, born on January 30, 1940 in Richmond, IN to Loren & Beulah (Major) Dillman. Dick has been a long term resident of Conroe, TX. After attending Miami University for two years, Dick left the farm and entered the Aviation Cadet program with the United Stated Air Force to pursue his lifelong dream of flying. As a Captain in the Air Force, his career was spent in MATS at Charleston AFB, SC as he flew around the world. In 1967 Dick moved to Texas and started a 28 year career flying for Delta Airlines. Throughout his years he has enjoyed his family, friends and hobbies. He served as a deacon in his church, and a leader at Bible Study Fellowship. Dick loved building and woodworking; boating and fishing; flying his small plane and riding his motorcycle. He also enjoyed traveling with his family around the US.
Dick is survived by his wife Janelee (Hays) and their three children. Their children include: daughter Jenny and husband Kemith Nichols of Nashville, TN; son Tim Dillman and wife Gretchen of Louisville, KY; daughter Christina and husband Lynn Ellisor of Conroe, TX. Additionally, Dick is survived by grandchildren Jacob Nichols of Cookeville, TN; Rebekah and husband Danny Pomohaci of Franklin, TN; Nathan Nichols of Nashville, TN; Cadeyn Dillman of Louisville, KY; Gillian Dillman of Louisville, KY; and Megan Dillman of Louisville, KY. ; Aloshia Ellisor of College Station, TX; Nadia Ellisor of Conroe, TX. Dick was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Bill Dillman. He is survived by sister, Becky Johnson of Eaton, OH and brother, Bob Dillman of Sioux City, Iowa. Visitation will be held on Monday, November 28, 2016 from 5pm to 8pm at Hooper Chapel at First Baptist Church (600 N Main St, Conroe). Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, November 29, 2016 at 12:30pm at Cashner Funeral Home (801 Teas Rd, Conroe) with burial following in the Cashner Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Bible Study Fellowship, www.bsfinternational.org/donate , or a Christian mission of your choice.
You are invited to view our webpage and leave written tributes to the family at cashnerconroe.com
Honoring Dick are pallbearers Jacob Nichols, Nathan Nichols, Danny Pomohaci, Aloshia Ellisor, Lynn Ellisor and Kemith Nichols. Honorable pallbearer, Cadeyn Dillman. A special thank you to longtime friends: K.E. Darland, A.J. Purswell, Tom Gilmore, Jack Huddleston and the men of the Uplifters Sunday School class. To leave condolences to the family, visit our website at www.cashnerconroe.com
Funeral Home : Cashner Funeral Home
801 Teas Road Conroe, TX 77303 ...  (936) 756-2126

.Published on yourconroenews.com from Nov. 26 to Dec. 9, 2016

Friday, November 18, 2016

DL Capt. Ronald R. Alexander

Obituary...............to view/sign the online guestbook please visit the funeral home website
 

Ronald Ray (Ron) Alexander, age 74, of Griffin passed away November 17, 2016. Ron's love of flying began at the age of 14 and he received his pilot's license at the age of 17. After high school and college, he joined the United States Air Force where he served his country in the Vietnam War. The Air Force awarded Ron the Distinguished Flying Cross and two Air Medals. In 1969, he was hired by Delta Air Lines where he worked until retirement in 2002, with 34 years of service as Chief Pilot. Ron was an entrepreneur having owned and operated several businesses since 1979. In March 2004, Ron founded the Candler Field Museum, a non-profit organization. Candler Field is named after the original Atlanta airport. He is survived by his wife, Regina Alexander; daughter Julie Alexander and her husband Eric Lund, and their son Alexander; daughter Jane Smith and her husband Rod Smith, and their children Luke and Grace. Visitation for Mr. Alexander will be Sunday, November 20th from 6-8 P.M. at the Conner- Westbury Funeral Home, 1891 W. McIntosh Rd, Griffin, GA. A celebration of life will be held at a later date at Candler Field in Williamson, GA. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you please consider making a contribution to the Candler Field Museum, 349 Jonathan Roost Rd, Williamson, GA 30292 or www.peachstateaero.com Please join her family and friends in honoring the life of Ron Alexander by visiting www.conner-westburyfuneralhome.com and posting your tributes and memories. Conner-Westbury Funeral Home, 1891 W. McIntosh Rd., Griffin. - See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/atlanta/obituary.aspx?n=Ronald-Ray-ALEXANDER&pid=182630219#sthash.LhL1Apif.dpuf 


From: Julian BlackSent: Saturday, November 19, 2016 10:35 AM  Subject: Ron Alexander



Hello everyone;  As we all deal with the loss of a great friend, the family has asked that we spread the word that the visitation for Ron will be on Sunday, November 20, 2016 from 6:00pm until 8:00pm at Conner Westbury funeral home in Griffin. 
Following link to Conner Westbury where updates and the obituary will be posted later.  There will be a celebration of life at a later date, to be announced. 
Conner-Westbury Funeral Home1891 W McIntosh Rd
Griffin, GA 30223
Telephone: (770) 227-2300
Email: wecare@conner-westburyfuneralhome.com



~ IN MEMORY ~
DL Capt. Ronald R. Alexander
January 12, 1942 ~ November 17, 2016


Notification with the tragic death Thursday evening of Delta Golden Wings member retired Delta pilot Captain Ronald R. Alexander, age 74.  Captain Alexander joined Delta Air Lines 06-02-1969 and retired with Delta in 2002. 
More information will follow as we learn more.....................
            Thank you,
                ~ Carol for the PCN 
Around 5:30 Thursday evening units from the Pike County Sheriffs Department, Pike County Fire Department all responded to Candler Field in Williamson to a single engine plane crash. Witnesses stated to WKEU news that the aircraft appeared to be on fire right before impact. The 1917 Jenny was being flown by Candler Field Museum and Barnstormer’s Grill owner Ron Alexander, and another passenger was also on board at the time of the accident.
More information is expected to be released later. Stay tune to WKEU News for more on this breaking news story.
Thursday, November 17, 2016
Curtiss JN4D Jenny, N1662: Fatal accident occurred November 17, 2016 near Peach State Airport (GA2), Williamson, Pike County, Georgia
Those who may have information that might be relevant to the National Transportation Safety Board investigation may contact them by email eyewitnessreport@ntsb.gov,  and any friends and family who want to contact investigators about the accident should email  assistance@ntsb.gov.
Around 5:30 Thursday evening units from the Pike County Sheriff's Department, Pike County Fire Department all responded to Candler Field in Williamson to a single engine plane crash.
Witnesses stated to WKEU news that the aircraft appeared to be on fire right before impact.
The Curtiss JN4D Jenny was being flown by Candler Field Museum and Barnstormer’s Grill owner Ron Alexander, and another passenger was also on board at the time of the accident.
 Source:   http://wkeuradio.com
Candler Field principal Ron Alexander and an unidentified Federal Aviation Administration official were killed Thursday evening in a small plane crash near the airport in Williamson.
The plane, a Curtiss JN4D Jenny, burst into flames upon impact.
First responders rushed to the scene but could not save the two onboard.
The plane experienced trouble on takeoff.
It appeared the pilot tried to put it down in a pasture but it crashed into a wooded area.
PIKE COUNTY, Ga. - A plane has crashed in Pike County, killing two people on board according to fire officials.
Fire officials confirmed to Channel 2 Action News that a Curtiss JN4D Jenny airplane crashed Thursday evening at Peach State Airport in Williamson, Georgia.
Investigators said the plane took off shortly after 5:30 p.m. from the Candler Field Museum and crashed after liftoff.
Witnesses told investigators that there were visible flames from the plane before it crashed.
Two people on board were killed in the incident. Investigators are not releasing the names of the victims at this point.
The FAA is at the scene already working to learn more about what caused the crash. The NTSB is on the way.
EAA Vintage Director Killed In Jenny Crash             By Russ Niles | November 18, 2016
EAA Vintage Aircraft Association board of directors member Ron Alexander was killed Thursday in the crash of his recently restored Curtiss Jenny at Peach Tree Airport in Williamson, Georgia. An unidentified passenger was also killed. A local newspaper is reporting that the passenger was an FAA official but that has not been confirmed. Initial reports suggest the aircraft encountered some kind of difficulty on takeoff. It crashed in a wooded area and caught fire. First responders rushed to the scene but were unable to save the occupants.
Alexander founded Alexander Aeroplane Company, which was later sold to Aircraft Spruce. He had restored a Stearman in addition to the Jenny. He also established the Candler Field Museum at Peach Tree Airport. Alexander was an ex-military pilot who retired a captain with Delta after 33 years in 2002.

From: Julian Black Sent: Thursday, November 17, 2016 8:01 PM   Subject: FW: Capt. Ron Alexander
......................... 

I just received this email and do not have any more information. 
Captain Alexander was a Delta Golden Wings member. He will be a great lost to the aviation community!
Julian Black

From: Snjjose@aol.com [mailto:Snjjose@aol.com]   Sent: Thursday, November 17, 2016 8:10 PM    Subject: Capt. Ron Alexander

Capt. Ron Alexander  perished this afternoon at his airport flying his restored Jenny. No details yet
Capt. Joseph Fagundes (ret.)
J & B Properties LLC
P.O. Box 277
LaGrange Ga. 30241
706-881-1393

Thursday, November 17, 2016

RC/NWA pilot & senior VP ops/maint Gramer Dixie Foster

~ IN MEMORY ~
RC/NWA pilot & senior VP ops/maint Gramer Dixie Foster
June 20, 1927 ~ September 4, 2016
 
Notification with the passing of RC/NWA pilot and senior vice president flight ops/maintenance & engineering Gramer Foster, age 89.  Mr. Foster was widowed in with the passing of his wife Delores Jean Foster in March of 2013.  
To view/sign the online guestbook please visit the funeral home website at http://www.shannonfuneralhomes.com/  or 
http://www.shannonfuneralhomes.com/notices/Gramer-Foster  which should take you directly to Gramer Foster's obituary.  Also
 http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/bradenton/obituary.aspx?pid=181308742   Please see obituary for more information.
            Thank you,
                ~ Carol for the PCN
 
Obituary..................
Gramer Foster, 89, of Manatee County, died Sept. 4.
 He was a pilot with North Central Airlines, a pilot and senior vice president of flight operations with Republic Airlines, and a pilot and senior vice president of maintenance and engineering of Northwest Airlines. He was a member of St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church and St. Peter and Paul the Apostles Catholic Church in Bradenton.
----------------------
Gramer Dixie Foster
89, Bradenton, passed away Sept. 4, 2016. Gramer was born on June 20, 1927 in Chicago, Illinois. He was a Pilot with North Central Airlines, then Pilot and Senior Vice President of Flight Operations with Republic Airlines, and Pilot and Senior Vice-President of Maintenance and Engineering with Northwest Airlines with 32 ½ years of service. He moved to Manatee County in 1987 coming from Burnsville, Minnesota. Locally he was a member of the St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church on Longboat Key, and attended the Ss. Peter & Paul the Apostles Catholic Church in Bradenton. He was predeceased by his loving mother Gertrude Bertha Foster, beloved wife of 66 years, Dolores Jean Foster in March of 2013, and a daughter Laura Foster-Eklund in June of 2009, a brother, George and a sister, Margaret. Survived by his caring daughter, Carol of Bradenton, three precious grandchildren; Jesse (Jennifer) Hadac, Danielle Hadac, and Garrett Gramer Foster, one adorable great-granddaughter, Kali Jean Hadac and many extended family members and friends. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9:30 A.M. on Friday, September 9, 2016 in the Chapel at S.s Peter & Paul the Apostles Catholic Church, Bradenton. Further services and interment will take place at St. Michael Cemetery in Farmington, Minnesota. The family request that in lieu of flowers that memorials be made to Shriner's Children's Hospital in his memory. Condolences for the family may be made online at www.shannonfunerahomes.com.
Funeral Home : Shannon Funeral Homes, P.A.
5610 Manatee Avenue West Bradenton, FL 34209  ...  (941) 746-2111
==========================================================

Spouse:  Dolores Foster
Foster, Jean
Feb. 11, 1928 - Mar. 11, 2013
Jean Foster, 85, of Cortez since 1986, FL, formerly of Burnsville, Minnesota, passed away March 11, 2013. Jean was born in Peoria, IL. She graduated from Roosevelt H.S. in Chicago and went on to achieve her Bachelor of Science Degree with a focus in Geriatric Social Work from the University of Minnesota. She married the love of her life, Gramer Foster in 1947. Jean was a gentle and compassionate woman who loved to care for others. She worked as a geriatric social worker at the Masonic Home in Bloomington, MN, where she was dedicated to helping the elderly achieve a true quality of life. She was well known for her love of animals and took part in many animal rescue organizations and welcomed many adopted pets into her home. Jean is survived by her loving husband, Gramer, children Carol, (Rob), grandchildren Jesse and (Jennifer), Dannielle, Garrett, and great-granddaughter, Kali. She was pre-deceased by beloved daughter, Laura, and mother, Elsie.
Memorial Service will be held 12:00 pm, Tuesday, March 19, 2013 at St. Peter and Paul the Apostles Catholic Church, 2850 75th Street West, Bradenton, FL. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel 604 43rd Street West, Bradenton, FL 34209 in charge. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the following organization: Share-A-Pet/Wildlife Club Programs Associated Humane Societies Humane Way PO Box43 Forked River, NJ 08731-0043. Condolences www.brownandsonsfuneral.com.

Rosalind 'Teddy' Hanson, widow of NWA Capt. Vinton R. Hanson

~ IN MEMORY~
'Teddy' Hanson, widow of NWA Capt. Vinton R. Hanson
January 14, 1919 ~ September 28, 2016
 
Notification with the passing of Rosalind Eastwood Atkinson 'Teddy' Hanson, widow of NWA Capt. Vinton R. Hanson.  Captain Hanson, born September 25th of 1914, passed away on February 4th, 1997.  The Hansons resided in the Seattle area.  Teddy's obituary may be viewed online at http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/seattletimes/obituary.aspx?pid=182498875 
            Thank you,
                ~ Carol for the PCN
 
Obituary...............................
Rosalind Eastwood Atkinson "Teddy" Hanson passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 28, 2016. Beloved mother, grandmother, friend and unique character, she will be sorely missed. Born January 14, 1919 in Florida she lived her early years there and received her education there. When WWII broke out, Teddy was recruited to the Military Intelligence Service (MIS), part of the US Army. She served state side until the end of the war and then was transferred to Tokyo, Japan. MIS became the Army Security Agency and Teddy was extremely proud of her high security clearance. In keeping with that level of security, Teddy was reluctant to discuss her war and post-war activities. While in Tokyo, Teddy met Joe DiMaggio who was there on a USO tour. They dated briefly and through Joe, Teddy met Marilyn Monroe. In early 1953 Teddy met Northwest Orient Airlines Captain Vinton R. Hanson and they became quite the couple in post-war Tokyo. They married on August 27, 1954. Always known for her negotiating skills, Teddy found Dom Perignon Champaign in Beirut, Lebanon at an unbelievable price. She denies using military transport to get it to Tokyo for the 300 guest attending the wedding. One can only wonder... Teddy and Vint's daughter Kimberly was born in Tokyo in July of 1955 and the family relocated to the Seattle area in 1957. They became members of Inglewood Golf Club at that time. Vint continued his career with Northwest Airlines. Teddy was extremely proud of her business, Teddy Hanson Productions and continued to run it until late in her 80's. Teddy was an excellent golfer and Life Master in the American Contract Bridge League. Teddy taught bridge to students at Inglewood and the Washington Athletic Club where she was long time member and a fixture in Women's Conditioning. Teddy was preceded in death by her husband, Vint and daughter Kimberly. She is survived by her son, Tracy Vinton Hanson, her step-son Timothy Hanson (Judith) of Whidbey Island, her son-in-law Charles "Ky" Huggins III of Port Ludlow, granddaughters Gillian Fears (Ashley) and Sydney Huggins of Seattle.
====================================
 
NWA Capt. Vinton R Hanson  
Date of Birth: Friday  September  25, 1914
Date of Death: Tuesday  February  04, 1997
Age at Death: 82 years, 4 months, 10 days
 

Letters to the Editor.......June 2009 issue  www.cgaalumni.org
RE: “Ditching of NWA 293”  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northwest_Airlines_Flight_293 
Your April 2009 Bulletin included an article on the Ditching of NWA 293. My mother, “Teddy” Hanson, received a marked up copy of the article from a friend. Thank you and Captain David V.V. Wood very much for the article. My father (deceased) was Captain Vinton R. Hanson. He was the most humble person I have ever known. His most common comment about the ditching was to say “I was just doing my job!”
Kimberly Hanson Huggins, proud daughter of Captain Hanson, the pilot responsible for the successful ditching of NWA 293

Tuesday, November 15, 2016

NWA Capt. Robert Ralph Johnson

~ IN MEMORY ~
Military veteran, NWA Capt. Robert 'Bob' R. Johnson
July 1, 1935 ~ November 13, 2016
 
Word has been received with the passing of RNPA member retired Northwest pilot Captain Robert Ralph Johnson, age 81.  Captain Johnson joined Northwest Airlines 09-01-1959 and retired with Northwest in 1995.  He is survived by his wife Georgeia.  Services will be held in Minnesota.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, December 19th, at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Community church in Medina MN, with visitation one hour prior to Mass. The church phone number:  (763) 473-7901.
Interment with military honors will follow at Holy Name cemetery.  
Personal condolences may be sent to the family at
2067 Crystal Lake Drive, Miramar Beach, FL 32550-7879.
            Thank you,
                ~ Carol for the PCN 
 

Retired NWA Captain Robert Ralph Johnson, age 81, left this world on November 13, 2016 to join his Savior in eternity. Bob was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota on July 1, 1935. After leaving the University of Minnesota, Bob joined the Navy flight training program in Pensacola, Florida. Upon completion of that training, Bob was awarded his Wings of Gold and commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps. His first duty station was in Kaneohe Bay Hawaii and while there he was encouraged to take Landing Signal Officer training which allowed him to train pilots on the field and to bring them aboard aircraft carriers. Bob was particularly proud of the fact that of the thousands of landings that he controlled on aircraft carriers, there was never a single accident of any kind. Bob left active duty in the Marine Corps on July 1, 1959 and signed on as a pilot for Northwest Airlines on September 1, 1959. Bob remained in the Marine Corps reserve during this time. Bob’s class was the junior class at Northwest who were furloughed due to a reduction of pilot force in October 1960. Bob went to work for Honeywell in the Military Products group but left Honeywell to return to Active Duty in the Marine Corps in September 1962. Bob remained on active duty in the Marine Corps until September 1966 at which time he returned to Northwest Airlines. Bob was an instructor and FAA-Designated Check Airman at Northwest for the remainder of his career until his retirement on July 1, 1995. In addition to his lifelong commitment to aviation, Bob was deeply involved in his local community through youth sports, the Catholic Church, and the local school district. After retirement, Bob reconnected with an old friend, Georgeia Pappas, and a loving marriage resulted which fulfilled him for the remaining years of his life. Bob and Georgeia made their new home in Sandestin, Florida where their life was rich with amazing friendships and a wonderful social life. In addition, they shared their mutual love of travel by taking multiple trips abroad each year, as well as demonstrated their commitment to service through their volunteer roles at Sacred Heart Hospital in Sandestin. Bob’s life was deeply enriched through his very special relationships with his grandchildren. Bob is survived by his loving wife, Georgeia, three wonderful children Michael (Julie) Johnson of Woodbury, MN, Elizabeth (Bill) Baxter of Bellevue, WA, and Kristin (Bo) Johnson of Concord, MA, and a step-daughter Stacy Pappas of Southern Pines, NC, as well as his nine incredible grandchildren: Danny, Hannah, Annika and Ian Johnson, Matthew, Nicklas and Lukas Johnson, and Danielle and Dylan Baxter. Bob was preceded in death by his parents Ralph and Ruth Johnson, and his son USAF Captain Daniel R. Johnson. Mass of Christian Burial will be 11am Monday, December 19 at Holy Name of Jesus in Medina, MN with visitation one hour prior to Mass. Interment with military honors will follow at Holy Name cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to either the Semper Fi Fund (semperfifund.org) or Operation Mend (operationmend.ucla.edu).


From: RNPA News Sent: Monday, November 14, 2016 7:29 AM   Subject: RNPA News: Bob Johnson Has Flown West.

 This is Krissie, Bob's daughter, and I wanted to let you know that Dad passed tonight. He is finally at peace and hopefully enjoying a deep embrace with Danny now.
 We are hoping to have his funeral in MN in mid-December and will post an obituary with details soon.
 Thank you for a lifetime of friendship with Dad.
 Much love,
 Krissie

Tuesday, November 8, 2016

NEA/DL Capt. Russell E. Worth

~ IN MEMORY ~
WWII veteran, NEA/DL Capt. Russell E. Worth
October 1, 1924 ~ November 10, 2015 

Please forgive this belated notice...we received a call recently from family reporting the loss of retired NEA/Delta pilot Captain Russ Worth.  Delta Golden Wings member retired pilot Captain Russell Eric Worth was 91 years of age at the time of his passing in November of last year.  A native of Massachusetts, Captain Worth joined Northeast Airlines 05-24-1951 and retired with Delta Air Lines in November 1983, based BOS and MIA.  
To date I have not been able to locate an online obituary for Captain Worth, but I did find a military bio page online which you can view in its entirety at http://www.oughterardheritage.org/content/people/russell-worth  I've reprinted some of information below.
Captain Worth is survived by his wife Phyllis.  Personal condolences may be sent to the family at
2242 SW Racquet Club Dr., Palm City, FL 34990-2607  ...  (772) 286-7292.
Should we receive more information we will be sure to pass it along.
            Thank you,
                ~ Carol for the PCN
 
Bio & military background....Captain Russell Eric Worth..... Manchester
Evening News dated Nov. 15, 1971
FACTFILE  :  1924    Born in Lynn, near Boston Mass
     1942  Joined U.S. Navy.
     1943  Fought aboard PT189, in Pacific.
     1945  Recommended for Bronze Star.
     1946  Learned to Fly.
     1948  Left Navy.
     1951  Joined Northeast Airlines. Co-Pilot on DC3s
     1956  Promoted Captain.
     1957  Elected for one year term as Selectman for SalisburyMass.
     1958  Re-elected.
     1959  Re-elected.
     1965  Chief Captain at Boston Base (over 400 pilots).
     1970  Married Phyllis.
     1972  Northeast merges with Delta, Chief at Miami Base (600 Pilots).
      1973  Bought Boghall in Oughterard.
      1984  Retired from Delta as L1011 Captain.
 
 Profiles in Courage.....................................
 
On the afternoon of the 30th December 1944, PT189 came to the assistance of USS ORESTES which had been severely damaged in a Kamikaze attack at Margarin Bay in the Philippines.
 
Russell Worth was recommended for the Bronze Star Medal for bravery. The citation read in part:
“Aware of personal danger to himself in struggling with frantic survivors and the possibility of 80,000 gallons of 100 octane gasoline carried as cargo aboard the USS ORESTES exploding, dove into the water and towed survivors to the PT189 where they were taken aboard and treated for burns, abrasions, shock and wounds resulting from the exploding ammunition”.
 
DELTA’s International Promotion 1974....................Russell featured in DELTA’S International Promotion in TIME MAGAZINE April 1974.
The advertisement read as follows:  “DELTA is an air line run by professionals like Russ Worth. Russ made his first airline flight over 22 years ago.  Since that time, he has flown the DC-4, the DC-6, the DC-8 and the DC-9 jet. Now he’s a DELTA 727 Captain with over 15,000 hours and 6 million miles under his seat belt. Russ Worth is a Captain you can count on. And DELTA has over a thousand more like him.
DELTA is ready when you are.”
 
..................................Phyllis and Russell endeared themselves to everyone from the very beginning. Russell became actively involved in community affairs from the start.  He was involved in the Angling Club, the Show Committee and the TidyTown’s Committee.  He was a familiar sight in his overalls with a can of paint and brushes in his hand.  He painted all the park benches, water pumps, the Boat House building and gave a new look to old ruins within the town.  He picked litter and kept a watchful eye on litter black-spots in the town.  He took great pride in his adopted village. Russell was a kind, honest, generous man who willingly helped all who sought his assistance...............................................

Thursday, November 3, 2016

DL Capt. Russell Lon Thomas Sr.

~ IN MEMORY ~
DL Capt. Russell Lon Thomas Sr.
November 18, 1939 ~ October 18, 2015

Our apologies to Captain Thomas's family for this belated posting.... military veteran, Delta Golden Wings member, retired Delta pilot Captain Russell Lon Thomas Sr. was 75 years of age at the time of his passing October 18th of 2015.  Captain Thomas joined Delta Air Lines 04-03-1967 and was based 030/ATL at the time of his retirement.  He is survived by his wife Lena Lou.  Captain Thomas's obituary may still be viewed online at  http://www.mayeswarddobbins.com/obituaries/Russell-Thomas-Sr/#!/Obituary   Services for Captain Thomas were held in Marietta, Georgia with interment at Georgia National Cemetery.  Personal condolences may be sent to the family at
1521 Cheatham Hill Rd SW , Marietta, GA 30064-4121   ...  (770) 424-6690
            Thank you,
                ~ Carol for the PCN 
Obituary for Russell Lon Thomas, Sr. ............................
Russell Lon Thomas, Sr., 75, of Marietta passed away Sunday, October 18, 2015.
A Funeral Service will be held 2:00 p.m. Wednesday at First Presbyterian Church Sanctuary in Marietta with Rev. Denise Beltzner officiating. Interment will be in Georgia National Cemetery.
Russell graduated from Mississippi College where he played football. He served five years in the Marines as a helicopter pilot. After military he went to work for Delta as a pilot. When he retired after 30 years of service as a captain, he was on the 757-767. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed quail hunting with his brothers and son in Mississippi. Russell was a member of First Presbyterian of Marietta for 40 years. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather.
Survivors include his wife of 53 years, Lena Lou Thomas of Marietta; one son, Russell Lon Thomas Jr. and his wife, Kellie of Marietta; one daughter, Jennifer Thomas Gibson and her husband, Jim of Jamestown, NC; his mother, Lula Mae Thomas of Duck Hill, MS; two brothers, David Dee Thomas and his wife, Carolyn of San Rafael, CA, Stephen Jordan Thomas and his wife, Wanda of Eupora, MS; six grandchildren, Matthew, Sam and Annie Gibson, Rachel, Hannah and Russell Thomas III; brother-in-law, Tommy Linn and his wife, Sheila of Cave Creek, AZ.; several nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to a charity of your choice.

Family will receive friends 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday at Mayes Ward-Dobbins Funeral Home in Marietta.www.mayeswarddobbins.com 770-428-1511

DL Capt. Alvin F. Oien Jr.

~ IN MEMORY ~
USAF, DL Capt. Alvin F. 'Al' Oien Jr.
April 12, 1935 ~ October 18, 2016
 
Word has been received with the passing of military veteran retired Delta pilot Captain Al Oien, age 81.  Captain Oien retired with Delta Air Lines in 1985 based DFW.  He is survived by his wife Carol.  Services are planned for November 22nd at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, Oregon.
            Thank you,
                ~ Carol for the PCN 

From: CAROLE NEUBRAND   Sent: Thursday, November 03, 2016 9:02 AM   Subject: Obituary for DFW Captain Al Oien

Cares & Concerns

10/20 from Carol Oien … My husband, Al Oien, passed away on October 18, 2016 after a long illness. He was 81 years old, born April 12,  1935.
When he peacefully slipped away, I was at his side. His last days were attended by family and friends who shared so many fond memories while seated around his bed.
Al will be interred, as he requested, at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, Oregon.  In lieu of flowers or donations, please hug someone you love.

Sympathies may be sent to: Carol Oien, PO Box 520, Paradise, TX 76073 ~ aloien35@gmail.com 




Alvin F. Oien Jr. left this life peacefully on October 18, 2016, in Paradise, Texas, after a long illness. Carol Oien, his wife of 41 years was at his side. Al was also known, to friends and family, as Sonny, Smilin' Al, or Big Al.

Al was born April 12, 1935 in Portland, Oregon. As a young boy, in 1945, Al served as junior Prime Minister in the Portland Rose Festival Court. He graduated from Benson Polytechic High School in 1953 and attended Reed College. Al completed Aviation Cadet Pilot training in 1956 and served his country as a USAF pilot at Patrick AFB in Florida, flying down range missions during the early years of the space program. He continued his service as a military pilot in the 304th Aerospace Rescue Unit, USAF Reserves, Portland, flying search and rescue missions in SA-16 amphibians. 

In 1960, he married Sally Dinsmore and attended Portland State College.  Al began his career as a commercial pilot in 1962 flying for Delta Air Lines in Dallas, Texas, retiring as captain in 1985.

Following the loss of his first wife in 1970, Al married Carol Thomas, his "Sweetbaby", in 1975. After his retirement, Al served as Alderman for the town of Westlake, Texas, for many years and was "noted for his candor" by the Fort Worth Star Telegram.

Al was privileged to have flown many types of aircraft in his lifetime including helicopters, amphibians, single- and multi-engine props and jets. He flew the last commissioned B-17 during his Air Force service and, as a civilian, the last operating Boeing 307, now in the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum. In recent years, Al collaborated with author/pilot Ross Nixon on the book "Finding Carla", a recollection of the tragic loss of Al Sr. in a private plane crash in 1967.

Al is preceded in death by his sister, Shirley, 1938, father, Alvin F. Oien Sr., 1967, first wife, Sally Dinsmore Oien, 1970, and mother, Laura Whitten Oien, 1989. He is survived by his wife, Carol, brother Ronald and sister-in-law Carol, brother Charles and sister-in-law Tina, and much loved nieces, nephews, grandniece, and grandnephews.

Services will be held at Willamette National Cemetery at 11:00am on November 22, 2016. Following the service, friends and family are welcome at a gathering of remembrance at the home of Chuck and Tina Oien.

"When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure."


Tuesday, November 1, 2016

DL Capt. John A. 'Jack' Waeltz

~ IN MEMORY ~
Military veteran, DL Capt. John A. 'Jack' Waeltz
May 28, 1942 ~ October 10, 2016

Notification with the passing of retired Delta pilot Captain John 'Jack' Waeltz, age 74.  Captain Waeltz joined Delta Air Lines 02-13-1970 and retired in 1997 based 030/ATL.  He is survived by his wife Betty.  Condolences may be expressed by visiting the funeral home's website at  
Services are planned for October 18th with visitation the evening prior, Moll Funeral Home of Mascoutah, Illinois entrusted with arrangements.
            Thank you,
                ~ Carol for the PCN
Obituary...........................
John A. "Jack" Waeltz, 74, of Belleville, Ill., born May 28, 1942, in Belleville, Ill., died Monday, Oct. 10, 2016, at his residence following a courageous three year battle with brain cancer.
Jack grew up in Freeburg, Ill., and graduated from Freeburg High School in 1960. He was a co-valedictorian of the class and a National Merit Scholar. He attended Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago, Ill., on a Naval ROTC scholarship completing Bachelor of Science degree requirements in Mechanical Engineering on June 24, 1964. The same day he was commissioned an Ensign in the U.S. Navy. Jack earned his "wings of gold" as a naval aviator on May 24, 1966. He was assigned to Attack Squadron VA-93, Naval Air Station, Lemoore, Calif., and trained in the Douglas A-4 "Skyhawk" aircraft. During the Vietnam War, he flew the A-4 attack bomber from the decks of the U.S.S. Hancock and the U.S.S. Bon Homme Richard. Jack flew 241 missions over North Vietnam, had 345 carrier landings during his naval career and was the recipient of numerous awards and air medals. He proudly served the U.S. Navy for 51/2 years.
Delta Airlines hired Jack as a flight engineer in February 1970. He flew 27 years for Delta, and retired in August 1997, as a Boeing 767 Captain. Additionally, he was a line check airman for Delta's pilot training program.
God's speed on your final journey west, Captain Jack. Jack loved farming and was the fourth generation to own the Waeltz family farm located south of Freeburg, Ill. He was a life-long member of the St. Clair County Farm Bureau. He enjoyed golfing with friends, watching St. Louis Cardinals baseball, riding his Harley-Davidson, listening to country music, watching John Wayne movies and reading (especially the daily newspaper front to back). He was preceded in death by his parents, Arnold and Lucille, nee Hollenkamp, Waeltz; brothers, Bob and Bill Waeltz; and a sister, Diane, in infancy. Surviving are his wife of 53 years, Betty, nee Hartman, Waeltz; his children, Chuck (Stacy) Waeltz of Belleville, Ill., Missy (Myron) Wombacher of Mascoutah, Ill., and Paul (Marlene) Waeltz of Landenberg, Pa.; grandchildren, McKenzie and Ryanne Sirtak, Mitchell and Sydney Waeltz, Aidan and Jude Waeltz and Joel Johnson; sisters, Carol (Don) Beste of Bethalto, Ill., Judy (Bob) Huller, formerly of O'Fallon, Ill., and Mary (Mark) Huller of O'Fallon, Ill.; a brother, David (Doris) Waeltz of Mascoutah, Ill.; sisters-in-law, Mary Jo Waeltz of Brunswick, Ohio, Sandi Waeltz of Round Rock, Texas, and Lois Jean (Ken) Krassinger of St. Louis, Mo.; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
A heartfelt thank you to the health care professionals at Siteman Cancer Center, B.J.C. Hospice, Morning Glory Homecare and all friends and neighbors for their kindness and support. Donations are suggested to support Siteman Cancer Center, through the Foundation for Barnes-Jewish Hospital, 1001 Highlands Plaza Drive West, Suite 140, St. Louis, Mo. 63110 or Mascoutah Memorial Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 80, Mascoutah, Ill. 62258.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting mollfuneralhome.com. Visitation: Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Monday, Oct. 17, 2016 at the Moll Funeral Home in Mascoutah, Ill. Funeral: A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 18, 2016 at Moll Funeral Home with Rev. Jason Pierce officiating. Burial with Navy military honors will follow at 12:30 p.m.Tuesday, in Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, Mo.

MOLL FUNERAL HOME, Mascoutah, Ill.