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___ 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).

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Sunday, May 31, 2020

DL Capt. Dennis Burnette Jones


~ IN MEMORY ~
USAF veteran/DL Capt.  Dennis Burnette Jones
June 3, 1942 ~ March 10, 2020


Notification with the passing of retired Delta pilot Captain Dennis Burnette Jones, age 77.  Captain Jones joined Delta Air Lines 02-08-1973 and was based DFW.  He is survived by his wife Mary Lou, his children and grandchildren, plus many more dear family members.  Obituary information for Captain Jones is available online at
For those who may wish to contact the family, whitepages lists the residence address as
819 274th Pl. SE , Sammamish, WA 98075
Thank you,
~ Carol for the PCN

Obituary……………… Dennis B. Jones
"Denny" Jones went to be with his Lord on March 10, 2020 in Sammamish, WA. He was born June 3, 1942 to Kennard and Burnette Jones. He graduated from Washington State University with a business degree and a commission in the Air Force. Denny flew the RF-C4 Phantom jet in Viet Nam and was a highly decorated pilot whose awards included the Distinguished Flying Cross. After returning to the states he joined Delta Airlines and lived in Ft. Worth, TX, but continued in the military reserve retiring as a Lt. Colonel. Denny's devotion to his alma mater, WSU was exemplary, as president of the Alumni Association, active in the Foundation and on the Board of Trustees. He and his wife raised three daughters before he moved back to Washington state. There he met and married Mary Lou Beenk in 2003. His retirement years were filled with European travels, summers at Priest Lake, Idaho and attending every Cougar football game possible. Denny was always there for friends and family with a big heart and big smile. Denny is survived by his wife, Mary Lou, children JoLynn (Don), Jennifer (Bryan), Jereme (Jason), step children Scott Beenk, Chelsea (Connor), 13 grandchildren, extended family and treasured friends.
Denny was strong to the end and enjoyed the fullest of life experiences. Go Cougs!

Friday, May 29, 2020

USAF ret./NWA Col. James Douglas ‘Doug’ WEIDMAN


~ IN MEMORY ~
USAF ret./NWA Col. James Douglas ‘Doug’ WEIDMAN
JULY 13, 1942 – MAY 14, 2020 


Notification with the passing of retired Northwest Airlines pilot USAF ret. Col. James Douglas ‘Doug’ WEIDMAN, age 77.  Please see available information below.  To view the full obituary online, please go to
To view a full veteran tribute, please visit http://www.veterantributes.org/TributeDetail.php?recordID=1461
For those who may wish to contact the family, whitepages lists the residence as
7801 E Oakwood Pl.,  Tucson, AZ 85750.
Thank you,
~ Carol for the PCN 

Obituary……………… James Douglas WEIDMAN
James Douglas WEIDMAN was born on July 13, 1942 and passed away on May 14, 2020 and is under the care of East Lawn Palms Mortuary.
WEIDMAN, Colonel James "Doug", US Air Force Retired, passed away (or "flew west" in old fighter pilot lingo) on May 14, 2020 in Tucson, Arizona (1942-2020) at age 77. After growing up in East St. Louis, Illinois, Doug was commissioned in the USAF in 1965, flew two tours during the Vietnam War, and was the recipient of the Silver Star. He was a proud member of the Misty Commando Sabre unit during the war and attended the reunions throughout the rest of his life. Also, a proud F-15 Eagle and A-10 Warthog pilot, among other planes, he retired as the Vice Wing Commander of the 355th TTW at Davis-Monthan AFB in 1989. He was a 34-year resident of Tucson. He went on to be an airline pilot for *Northwest Airlines, and after that retirement, a rangemaster at the Southeast Regional Park Shooting Range until earlier this year. His passion for shooting sports was well known in the Tucson shooting community. Doug is survived by his wife of 50 years, Missy; his children, Gavin and Whitney; his daughter and son-in-law, and his three grandchildren. As a Dad, Papa, Uncle, wingman, shooting buddy, friend, patriot and neighbor, he will be sorely missed. Funeral services to be announced after COVID restrictions are lifted, and the arrangements are being handled by EAST LAWN PALMS MORTUARY.
* After his retirement from the Air Force, he flew for Northwest Airlines, flying Boeing 727s, 757s, 747s, and McDonald Douglas DC-9s and DC-10s.  http://www.veterantributes.org/TributeDetail.php?recordID=1461

Thursday, May 28, 2020

NEA/DL Capt. Raymond J. Halloran


NEA/DL Capt. Raymond J. Halloran
August 14, 1924 ~ May 17, 2019


Please forgive my belated notice ….
This news with the passing of retired Northeast/Delta pilot Captain Raymond Junior Halloran, age 94.  Captain Halloran joined Northeast Airlines 06-19-1951 and retired with Delta Air Lines in 1984, based Boston.  We understand Captain Halloran passed due natural causes associated with Alzheimer’s dementia.  He is survived by his son Jay plus many more dear family members and friends.  Interment: Durham, NH Cemetery
Captain Halloran had most recently resided at
12 Denbow Rd.,  Durham, NH 03824.
Thank you,
~ Carol for the PCN

WAL Capt. Joe Carroll Greer Sr.


~ IN MEMORY ~
USN ret. LCDR/WAL Capt. Joe Carroll Greer Sr.
February 24, 1935 ~ May 19, 2020


Word from the Greer family has reached us with news of the passing of Delta Golden Wings member retired Western Airlines pilot Captain Joe Carroll Greer, age 85.  Widowed in October 2019 with the passing of his wife Ruby, Captain Greer is survived by his children and grandchildren. 
Obituary information for Capt. Greer is available online at
For those wishing to contact the family, son Joe can be reached at  joegreer@sbcglobal.net  
Thank you,
~ Carol for the PCN

Obituary………………….
Joe Carroll Greer, 85, of Westlake Village passed away May 19 with his family by his side. Born Feb. 24, 1935, in Memphis, Tenn., Joe traveled the world and lived in many places, including Spokane, Wash.; Pensacola, Fla.; San Diego; New Orleans; the Philippines and Guam. For the past 46 years, he has called Westlake Village his home. Born the son of an aviation pioneer, he had a love for aviation running through his veins and served in the United States Navy and also flew for Western Airlines. In 1957, as an ensign, he was selected as the Outstanding Naval Aviation Cadet from a field of 3,100 students who received their wings that year. He flew fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft and sailed on two deployments serving in HS-6 and VS-21 anti-submarine squadrons. He is credited with 37 rescues by helicopter and also found himself being rescued in 1959 after ditching a Sikorsky HSS-1N in the South China Sea during a typhoon that caused a sea state of 8. In 1960, he was awarded the Navy Commendation Medal. He retired as a Lieutenant Commander from the Navy and was qualified in 21 different aircraft. After retirement he transitioned into airline flying and loved going to the Hawaiian Islands. A kind, thoughtful and respectful man, he had a passion for taking photos and seeing the beauty in nature. He will be missed by many and he will miss socializing with friends at Eggs ’n’ Things. Joe’s wife of 62 years, Ruby, passed away in October 2019. He is survived by daughter Becky, her husband, Jerry, and their son, Tanner; and son Joe, his wife, Kelly, and their daughters Emily and Allison.

………………………….  https://www.theacorn.com/articles/ruby-rebecca-greer/ 
Ruby Rebecca Greer, 81, of Westlake Village passed away October 15, 2019 with her family by her side. Born June 27, 1938 in Hazlehurst, Mississippi, Ruby has lived in many places to include; Pensacola, San Diego, New Orleans and Guam, but for the past 45 years she has called Westlake Village her home. As a dental hygienist she touched many people in the community. Her interests included racquetball, traveling in the motorhome, gardening and cooking. She was highly skilled with knitting needles and a crochet hook. She also played the piano. Ruby also liked to travel with trips to Canada, Germany, Japan, the Philippines and to visit relatives in the United States. She leaves behind many close friends and will be truly missed. We have lost a genuine person who was always so giving of her time, love, support and comfort but she will live on in our memories and stories. Ruby was a dedicated wife and mother. She especially loved her role as Nana. She is survived by Joe, her husband of 62 years, Becky her daughter, Becky’s husband Jerry and their son Tanner, and Joe her son, Joe’s wife Kelly and their daughters Emily and Allison.

Tuesday, May 26, 2020

WA/DL Capt. Duane Bird Gerrard


~ IN MEMORY ~
USAF veteran, WA/DL Capt. Duane Bird Gerrard
April 22, 1938 ~ May 24, 2020


Notification with the passing of retired Western/Delta pilot Captain Duane Bird (Dewey) Gerrard, age 82.  Captain Gerrard joined Western Airlines 01-09-1967 and retired with Delta Air Lines in 1997, based SLC/030.
To view the full obituary and share memories, please visit https://www.jenkins-soffe.com/ 
For those wishing to contact the family, whitepages lists the residence address as
638 Elias Rd.,  Kaysville, UT 84037.
Thank you,
~ Carol for the PCN 

Duane (Dewey) Bird Gerrard
Born April 22, 1938 in Murray, Utah. Received his final calling to return to his heavenly father on May 24th, 2020.
Dewey was raised in Taylorsville, Utah where he met and married the love of his life Kay Bennion on September 11, 1959 in the Salt Lake Temple.
He graduated from Utah State University with a degree in Aeronautics. Upon graduation he joined the United States Air Force, and went on to have a successful career with Western and Delta Airlines. He spent most of his time in many church callings which ranged from Bishop, Stake President, Regional Representative, Area President, General Authority and Temple President for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
Dewey and Kay raised 8 children, and to date have 29 grandchildren and 37 great grandchildren.
He will be buried in the Kaysville City Cemetery with a private service surrounded by his loved ones.
Please go to www.jenkins-soffe.com where a more extensive obituary will be provided about this wonderful man's life. It would mean the world to the family if you would please leave comments and stories about how this giant of a man has touched your lives.
………………………full obituary………………
On May 24, 2020, Dewey Gerrard as we all know and love, closed his final flight plan from life. Surrounded by his wife of over 60 years and his loved ones. He was dispatched for a new eternal flight plan that he has been diligently planning for his whole life. His new assignment as he called it, to his lovely wife, Kay is to prepare a place for their rather large family in heaven.

One of our favorite stories as a family is when Dewey first met Kay. At Plymouth Elementary in Taylorsville, Utah in Mrs. Munk’s 1st grade class. Dewey was making a sand castle in the back of the school during recess when Kay and her friend Sheri came up and knocked it over. Dewey got mad and threw sand in their eyes, their faces and their hair. And guess what he got to do? He got to meet Kay, her mother (Granny Bennion) and the principal all in one day. Not to mention that he got to stand in the corner while Kay went home to clean up. When she came back and saw Duane (as she still calls him to this day) still standing in the corner, she went up and asked Mrs. Munk if he could please sit down, as she was alright now. From that day on, he knew she was the girl for him, and she’s been keeping him out of trouble ever since.

When he was in High School, he had a football coach that the boys nicknamed “Nosey Edwards”. If you’re a BYU fan, which he is not, you may have heard of him. In fact, they might have named the stadium after him. LaVell Edwards may have been, one of his many mentors that prepared him for his numerous callings in life. But his father, taught him how to pray, something that he would do daily for the rest of his life, with humble thought. As a student at Utah State, one evening he was anxious to get back to school, and after giving a short and meaningless prayer from his family home, his father decided to give him one the most important teaching moments of his life. His father grabbed him by the shoulders and turned to him and said, “Son, do you pray every night and every morning”? Dewey replied, “Just about, whenever there is a test, an athletic event or if I’m sick”. His father looked him straight in the eyes and said “Son, promise me that you will pray night and morning on your knees, out loud and thank the Lord for the many blessings you have, and plead with him to direct your life, and to direct you in the path of righteousness”. He promised him he would and gave him a brief hug. That was a defining moment in his life because that week his father died and those were the last words that he heard from his father’s mortal lips. How great it is that he is seeing his father, mother, brothers and sister again.

At Utah State, he joined the ROTC and the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity, where he made lifetime friends that we have all known and loved our whole lives. Not to mention a few colorful songs, that shall not be referenced. He graduated in June 1960 with a BS degree in Aeronautics.

After graduating, he was commissioned 2nd Lt. USAF. On the way to training in Bartow, Florida, Dewey and his now eight-month pregnant bride, Kay drove cross country in a VW beetle that could barely do the speed limit with no air conditioning. He then was based in Vance AFB, Oklahoma and graduated in 1961. He also was assigned to the 50th Air Transport Squadron, Hickam AFB, Hawaii 1961-1964. During this time, he flew various flights in the Pacific, Asia, Vietnam, and Europe with over 350 combat hours to support the war effort.

In 1967 he joined Western Airlines, which to this day in our eyes is “The only way to fly”. He was promoted to Captain in 1978 and became an Instructor Check Airman in 1979, Project Pilot for the Boeing 767, Chief Pilot Salt Lake City 1982, Vice President of Flight Operations, Western Airlines, and in 1983 Chief Flight Instructor for Delta Airlines. In 1991 he became the Chief of Flight Safety for Delta Airlines. And one of the happiest days of his life, he retired in 1997.

While Dewey managed a successful career with the airlines, he also held numerous callings within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, that included Bishop for the newly organized Kaysville 12th Ward, and Stake President for the Kaysville Crestwood Stake.

Upon landing, for his final flight at the Salt Lake City airport, with two of his son’s in the cockpit, he walked out of the gate only to find some of the Brethren of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints who were patiently waiting for him for his new and exciting assignment, General Authority. We still remember the day that Elder Faust sat our mother and father down in his office and asked if our mother has ever been to the Philippines. Her response was “no, and I don’t care to go”. Needless to say, when a member of the 12 speaks to you, people listen. During their Farewell speech, our mother gave the strongest testimony we’ve heard, “I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded”. Missing their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, they spent 4 wonderful years in the Philippines. The next big assignment was to be the Temple President in the Dallas Temple. A calling which we believe was one of their favorites.

During a successful career and all of the callings in the Church, they managed to raise 8 children. Leslie (Doug) Wach, Brad (Marilyn) Gerrard, Mike (Adrian) Gerrard, Jeff (Sharry) Gerrard, Julie (George) Hyde, Michelle (Steve) Bodon, Rebecca (Darren) Frandsen, Jennifer (Mike) Hamblin. They also fostered 3 native American girls. If you can imagine, they have 29 grandchildren and 37 great grandchildren to date, and all are doing well and blessed to be in such a large and loving family created by Duane and Kay.

Dewey has many accolades and associations that we would like to acknowledge:


• Chairman of the Board of Advisories, Aerospace Department Utah State University
• Board of Advisors Embry Riddle University
• Member of International Society of Air Safety Investigators
• Air Transport Association
• Flight Systems Interrogation Committee
• Adjunct Professor Aviation Law, Utah State University
• Member Board of Advisors, US Blood Donors.org

As our father was closing his flight plan from life, and battling Cancer and a massive stroke, our family was fortunate enough to bring him home for his last few days. This was his last wish, to come home to Kaysvilla farms and be surrounded by family. He received the best care anyone could ask for from his family but especially his granddaughters from his three sons that so tenderly cared for him through the days and long nights. This time with our husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather is and will be some of the most sacred and special times we will ever remember. It brought us closer as a family, it brought us happiness and understanding and made us feel more Christ like. What a wonderful gift that we will never forget and cherish forever.

We will miss his broad shoulders, his resounding voice, but most of all, we will all miss his stories.

The family would love for all of you to share your stories about Duane B. Gerrard. This would give us as a family a way to commemorate the life and love that he has shown to all of us.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that contributions be made to Utah Foster Care, Utah State Aeronautics program or USBloodDonors.org

Sunday, May 24, 2020

NWA Capt. Thomas G. Boos


~ IN MEMORY ~
Military veteran, NWA Capt. Thomas G. Boos
August 17, 1923 ~ April 27, 2020


Notification with the passing of RNPA member retired Northwest pilot Captain Thomas George Boos, age 96.  Captain Boos first joined Northwest Airlines 11-12-1947.  He is survived by his wife Irene along with his children plus their grand- and great grandchildren.  Obituary information is available online at
For those wishing to contact the family, whitepages shows their residence listing as
8008 Bass Lake Rd # 226  ,  Minneapolis, MN 55428
Thank you,
~ Carol for the PCN 




Obituary…………….Boos, Thomas G.
Tom was a Second Lieutenant in the Army Airforce. Tom was flying as a Flight Engineer on B29 Aircraft when the war ended. After the war Tom worked for Northwest Airlines for 46 years. Starting as a groomer he obtained his Aircraft and Engine License. Tom then went on to work as a Mechanic, Inspector, Flight Engineer and Pilot. Tom first flew a Stearman open cockpit bi-plane and flew many piston and jet aircraft all over the world. He retired as a pilot on the Boeing 747.
A strong family man, Tom was slowed down by a stroke at the age of 73. With rehab and the support of his wife Irene "Bebo" Boos Tom was able to regain his independence and enjoy his family life.
Preceded in death by his parents, 2 brothers and 3 sisters. Survived by his loving wife Irene "Bebo" Boos (married 73 years), his sons Jeff (Diane) Boos, Brad (Debra) Boos, and Mitch Boos. (6) Grandchildren Christy (Brandon) Manary, Tony (Jen) Boos, Tara (Keaton) Gustin, Alyssa (Kevin) Boos, Tyler (Bria) Boos, Kaylene (Ben) Alexander. Eight Wonderful Great-grandchildren. His siblings Charles Boos, Patricia Sperry, and James (Doris) Boos.
God be with you Tom on your last flight. We will miss you. You are our hero. A private service is planned at St.Vincent de Paul, burial at St. Vincent de Paul Cemetery.



Dorothy ‘Sue’ Goodwin, widow of NEA/DL Capt. David F. Goodwin


~ IN MEMORY ~
Dorothy ‘Sue’ Goodwin, widow of NEA/DL Capt. David F. Goodwin
June 26, 1938 ~ May 20, 2020


Notification with the passing of Delta Golden Wings member Dorothy ‘Sue’ Goodwin, widow of Northeast/Delta pilot Capt. David Francis Goodwin.  Sue was 81 years of age at the time of her passing.
To view the obituary online please visit
Also available online at
Sue had most recently resided at
130 Saltmarsh Cir.,  Wells, ME 04090
Please see obituary information below.
Thank you,
~ Carol for the PCN 

Obituary…………………..
Dorothy (Sue) Goodwin died peacefully in York Maine on May 20, 2020, at the age of 81.

Sue was born on June 26, 1938, and lived most of her life in the Manchester NH area. She graduated from Central High School in 1956 and was married to her high school sweetheart Dave Goodwin in 1958. The Goodwin's soon started a family with Sue's main focus being on raising her three children while Dave pursued and met his goal of becoming a pilot with Delta airlines. They remained married until Dave's death in 1979. Through that time they partnered in a local aviation business, Warbird Aviation. Sue was an active member of the Manchester Baha'i Faith serving on the Local Spiritual Assembly in the mid-1970s.

Sue went on to receive her degree from Notre Dame College and had a successful career as Vice President and Executive Coach with Lee Hecht Harrison, an outplacement agency based in New York City. After a full and successful career she moved to Wells, Maine in retirement. She thoroughly enjoyed her life by the beach eventually persuading many of her close friends to move to the area. Sue loved to travel and had the opportunity to visit many countries including her country of heritage, Sweden. She was an active member of the Wells/York community volunteering many hours at York Hospital, Wells Elementary school, Wells town clerk's office, and voter registration.

Sue is survived by her children, David Goodwin of Forest Hills, NY, Susan Goodwin of Wells Maine, and Elizabeth Perkins of Woodland Hills, California, six grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband, *Dave Goodwin, and parents Charles and Dorothy Lawrence.

While we would love to commemorate her life with all of the people she touched, due to the Corona Virus we will be having a private family ceremony at Pine Grove Cemetery in Manchester, NH where Sue will be interred alongside her husband.
……………………………………
*Goodwin, Capt. David F. Jr.   'Dave'
DOB:  17-Feb-1938    SEN date:  17-Jan-1966    Died:   17-Jan-1979  
NEA/DL based  BOS-ORD-ATL    
Note: Aircraft accident - Private plane crash - Pitts S-2A, N79DG - Idaho


Friday, May 22, 2020

NWA Capt. Thomas Harry Adams


~ IN MEMORY ~
USMC veteran, NWA Capt. Thomas Harry Adams
June 6, 1936 ~ May 16, 2020

News of Capt. Tom Adams’ passing comes to us from the Retired Northwest Pilots’ Association group…..please see below.  Captain Adams is survived by his wife Loretta ‘Lori’.  He had most recently resided in Brenham TX. 
Look for future updates to follow….thank you.
~ Carol for the PCN
Dear Colleagues and Friends, 


From Tom Adam’s wife Lori, “ Tom passed away from Corona virus on Saturday, May 16, in a hospital in College Station, a town about 45 minutes from where we live in Brenham, Texas. He had several other issues, so he was not able to fight it very long. He had not been able to fly the last few years and that was very sad for him. Thanks for your concerns.”  

There is no doubt that Tom was an extraordinaire airman. He had that special touch with an airplane. In retirement Tom continued to hone that touch as an acrobatic pilot, winning international competitions. Tom was admitted to the Hall of Fame of the International Aerobatic Club. May I suggest you use the link below to learn of Tom’s IAC accomplishments.


Tom was born on June 06, 1936. In three weeks he would be 84 years old. Let no doubt that Tom was a Marine. He flew the A-4 as an attack fighter pilot in the USMC. Tom’s date of hire at NWA was October 19, 1964. These facts about Tom’s life and more will be noted in an obituary to be posted on the RNPA website. A special thanks to Tony Polgar for informing us of Tom’s passing.

With respect,  

William ‘Bill’ Day

Sunday, May 17, 2020

NEA/DL Flt. Dispatcher Richard John (Jay) Wills


~ IN MEMORY ~
Navy veteran, NEA/DL Flt. Dispatcher Richard John (Jay) Wills
March 12, 1927 - May 11, 2020


Word has reached us with news of the passing of retired Northeast/Delta Flight Dispatcher Mr. Richard John (Jay) Wills, age 93.  Jay joined Northeast Airlines in August 1947 and retired with Delta Air Lines in April 1989 as a Flight Control Shift Supervisor, based ATL.  Widowed in March of 2010, Jay is survived by his children and grandchildren.
To view the obituary online and share memories please visit
Or go directly to
For those wishing to send a personal note, the family is listed in whitepages at
1520 Diplomat Dr.,  Cumming, GA 30041
Thank you,
~ Carol for the PCN 

Obituary…………………
Richard John (Jay) Wills, 93, of Johns Creek, GA died May 11, 2020. The family will have a private memorial service at a later date.
Mr. Wills, a native of Boston, MA was a member of St. Brendan’s Catholic Church. He was a WW2 United States Navy veteran and was a retired flight dispatcher with Delta Airlines with 42 years of service.
Preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Jeanne Wills, he is survived by his son, Richard Wills of Ft. Lauderdale, FL; daughter, Donna Wills of Cumming, GA; daughter and son-in-law, Carolyn and Andy Kite of Buford, GA; son and daughter-in-law, Kenneth and Catherine Wills of Alpharetta, GA; son and daughter-in-law, Paul and Annalyn Wills of Cumming, GA; grandchildren, Andrew Kite III, Kimberly Kite, Brandon Wills, James Wills, Daniel Wills, Allison Wills, Matthew Wills and his wife Allison, Sean Wills, Dylan Wills; great grandson, Keaton Kite.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to your favorite charity in memory of Jay Wills.
Condolences may be sent by visiting www.billheadfuneralhome.com.
Bill Head Funeral Homes & Crematory Duluth Chapel (770)476-2535.
……………………………………..
Jeanne Marie Wills, 82, passed away on March 30, 2010. She is survived by Richard Jay Wills, her husband of 61 years; their five children: Richard Wills, Donna Wills, Carolyn Kite, Kenneth Wills, and Paul Wills; and by their nine grandchildren, Andrew Kite, III, Kimberly Kite, Matthew Wills, Brandon Wills, Sean Wills, James Wills, Dylan Wills, Daniel Wills, and Allison Wills. Jeanne was born and grew up in Boston, MA…………………………

NWA/DL Capt. Michael Dennis Mechsner


~ IN MEMORY ~
LTC USAF (Ret.) NWA/DL Capt. Michael Dennis Mechsner
August 12, 1950 ~ December 28, 2019



As noted recently in ALPA’s In Memoriam column, the passing of retired Northwest/Delta pilot Captain Michael Dennis Mechsner, age 69.  Captain Mechsner joined Northwest Airlines 10-20-1997 and retired with Delta Air Lines.  He is survived by his wife Linda, his children and grandchildren, plus many more dear family members.
Obituary information can be found online at
See obituary and view family photo gallery at http://chris68701.wixsite.com/mechsner
For those wishing to send a personal note, the family is listed in whitepages at
7923 El Dorado Dr.,  Austin, TX 78737
Thank you,
~ Carol for the PCN 

OBITUARY…………………………….
Lieutenant Colonel Michael Dennis (Mex) Mechsner, 69, passed away on December 28, 2019 in Austin, Texas. Michael was born in Rosemead, California to Kenneth and Britomart Mechsner on August 12, 1950.
Michael went to Rosemead High School and graduated in 1968. His love of aeronautics started young, and he earned his pilots license at the age of 15, even before he obtained his drivers license. He went on to earn a degree in Aeronautical Technology from Arizona State University in 1972, and was then drafted into Vietnam War, which was the start of his Air Force career.
Michael had a passion for flying and was devoted to our country, serving as an RF4 pilot. He soon built a reputation for knowing the phantom inside out and was called to duty in the invasion of Grenada and later Desert Storm. He acquired over 3,000 hours in the RF4 and his knowledge of the plane and mission granted him the nickname "Mr. Recce." His patriotism earned him several medals of Honor including the distinguished Flying Cross and numerous Air medals. He retired from the military after 23 years of service in 1993.
Michael went on to Northwest and delta Airlines as a commercial Airbus pilot where he continued to fly for another 17 years. After retiring, he enjoyed certifying flight instructors through the FAA in general aviation and passing on his extensive aviation knowledge to anyone interested in Aviation. He also enjoyed woodworking and rebuilding his 1967 Chevelle SS. He had a green thumb and enjoyed propagating Venus flytraps and orchids. After retirement, he was active in the Daedalians Organization. Outside of these hobbies, he enjoyed time with his wife, children and grandchildren and was well known to friends for his humor and wit.
Michael is survived by his beloved wife of 45 years, Linda; his son, Christopher and wife Melanie, grandchildren, Caden, Taylor and Aubrey; Daughter, Sandra Peterson and husband Joel; Mother, Britomart Mechsner and sister, Susan; Niece, Lynn and nephew; Kenneth Mechsner and Antonio Cordova. His father, Kenneth, and 2 brothers, Martin and Steven, precede him in death.
Funeral service will be held at Randolph Air Force Base Chapel in San Antonio, Texas on January 17th, 2020 at 10am. There will be a celebration of life reception following funeral and final burial will follow at Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery at 2:15pm. Harrell Funeral Home, in Austin, Texas will be handling the funeral arrangements.
Memorial donations may be made to Daedalians in memoriam of Michael Mechsner.
The Mechsner family wishes to extend their gratitude to all friends and family for support in this time.


WAL pilot Norman Alton Hortman Jr.

Update/note:  Captain Hortman joined Western Airlines 05-16-1966 and was based LAX.


~ IN MEMORY ~
WAL pilot Capt. Norman Alton Hortman Jr.
September 26, 1938 - January 30, 2020


As noted recently in ALPA’s In Memoriam column, the passing of retired pilot Norman Alton Hortman II, age 81.  From what I can determine, Norman flew for Western Airlines prior to the Western/Delta merger.  He is survived by his wife Barbara along with his children and grandchildren.
Obituary information is available online at
For those wishing to contact the family, whitepages lists their residence as
30541 Harvest Moon Cir.,  Valley Center, CA 92082.
If more news is received we can then pass it along.
Thank you,
~ Carol for the PCN

Obituary……………………
Norman Alton Hortman Jr. Valley Center Norman was born in West Virginia to Norman Adelbert Hortman and Elizabeth Harris Reed. Norman is survived by his childhood sweetheart and wife of 62 years, Barbara Lorraine Jenei, his two children: Norman and Kim, and 5 grandchildren. Norman was a commercial pilot and was well known through his business dealings. Norman's memorial will be at Emmanuel Faith Church in Escondido on February 15, at 1:30 P.M.
September 26, 1938 - January 30, 2020


NWA/DL Capt. CRAIG ERWIN GONTAREK


~ IN MEMORY ~
NWA/DL Capt. CRAIG ERWIN GONTAREK
March 6, 1957 – March 9, 2020

As noted recently in ALPA’s In Memoriam column, the passing of retired Northwest/Delta pilot Captain CRAIG ERWIN GONTAREK, age 63.  Captain Gontarek joined Northwest Airlines 08-15-1986 and retired with Delta Air Lines.  To date I’ve not been able to locate a full obituary but notice of his passing is posted online at
Arrangements entrusted to CRESCENT TIDE CREMATION SERVICES of St. Paul, Minnesota.
Captain Gontarek’s most recent contact listing per whitepages was
13194 Glenhurst Ave.,  Savage, MN 55378    (612) 718-6802  (612) 718-6800
Updates/corrections can be shared as more is learned.
Thank you,
~ Carol for the PCN

Saturday, May 16, 2020

SO/RC/NWA Capt. Clarence Rodgers Moore


~ IN MEMORY ~
Military veteran, SO/RC/NWA Capt. Clarence Rodgers Moore
September 7, 1931 ~ April 30, 2020


Notification with the passing of retired Southern/Republic/Northwest Airlines pilot Captain Clarence Rodgers Moore, age 88.  Widowed in 2018 with the passing of his wife Mary, Captain Moore is survived by his daughters plus his grand- and great grandchildren.
To view the obituary online please visit
Please see obituary for arrangements … also as noted below.
Thank you,
~ Carol for the PCN

Obituary………Clarence Rodgers Moore
Edmond, OK - Clarence Rodgers Moore of Edmond, OK passed on April 30, 2020 at the age of 88, at home. He was born on Labor Day, Monday, September 7, 1931 in Pearsall TX, the only child of of the late Clarence Monroe Moore, a WWI veteran, and Elsie Mae (Rodgers) Moore. He grew up in a household with his grandmother Laura (Gibson) Rodgers and blind uncle Clarence Bazzel Rodgers. His father was a clerk for Seaman's Store and his mother ran the Western Telephone Office and switchboard from their home in Mansfield, AR.

As a child Rodgers was enamored with flying, and music. He held a newspaper route and worked as projectionist at the Dixie Theater in Mansfield, saving for flying lessons, which he began at the age of 15, on a crop duster. His childhood textbooks include his drawings of airplanes penciled in buzzing around Abraham Lincoln's head. He attended Hartford and Mansfield, AR schools, graduating from Mansfield High School in 1949. Following graduation Rodgers enlisted in the Army National Guard at Fort Hood, Texas, and served as a Corporal in the Korean War Conflict Theater through1952. After returning from Korea, he married his sweetheart the late Mary Luan (Hearn) Moore of Greenwood AR in 1953. She preceded him in death in 2018 after 65 years of marriage.

Rodgers and Luan lived in Tulsa OK, where he took flying lessons and was an instructor for Ross Aviation and American Airlines. In 1958, they relocated with two daughters to Nashville, TN, where he was a flight instructor for American Airlines. In Jan 1960, Rodgers' life long dream came true when he became a copilot for Southern Airways, and the family moved to Memphis, TN where It grew with the birth of a son, and they remained until 1991. Rodgers served as a Captain with Southern Airways, Republic Airlines, and Northwest Airlines until 1991. He was a career member and recruiter for the ALPA, during a time when hijackings were rampant and pilot and flight safety were greatly lacking, and worked, and went on strike for, advances in those areas. He was a member and contributor to Parkway Village Baptist Church, Southern Avenue Baptist Church, and Ridgeway Baptist Church.

Upon Rodgers' retirement, they moved near their family homes to Fort Smith AR, where he became engrossed in genealogy and history. He was the past president and secretary of the South Sebastian County Historical Society. He was instrumental in the restoration of the Greenwood Old Jail Museum, the Coal Miner's Memorial, and the donation and relocation to Greenwood AR of the Vineyard Cabin built by Charles Blaylock, 1848. Rodgers was honored with an appointment to the Arkansas Museum Services Panel in 1998 by then Governor Mike Huckabee. He and his wife enjoyed travelling, especially to Alaska.

Rodgers is remembered for his quick smile, slow storytelling, beautiful tenor voice, fishing, camping, trail riding, photography, and his perfectionism (which he also expected from others). He loved building scale remote control airplanes, HO train sets, and woodworking. In 2012, the Moores relocated to Edmond OK near their eldest daughter, where they continued their interest in family history and their grandchildren, which were scattered all over the world.

Rodgers is survived by his daughters Rebecca Ann Moore of Edmond OK, Mary Kathryn (Andrew) Platt of Oldwick, NJ, and a son, Clarence Rodgers (Gina) Moore Jr. of Clearwater, FL, 9 grandchildren, and 9 great grandchildren, and two great grandsons expected the fall 2020.

A memorial service is planned in his honor on Labor Day Weekend, Saturday September 5, at Martin Funeral home, Mansfield AR, followed by interment at Coop Prairie Cemetery, Mansfield AR near his wife, parents, grandmother, and uncle.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his honor to one of the following organizations:
City Rescue Mission 800 W. California Ave, Oklahoma City OK 73106 www.cityrescue.org
Oklahoma Humane Society of Oklahoma City PO Box 18471, Oklahoma City OK 73154 www.okhumane.org
South Sebastian County Historical Society PO Box 523 Greenwood AR 72936 www.greenwoodmuseumonline.com
……………………………………..
Mary Luan (Hearn) Moore of Edmond, OK passed on October 1, 2018 at 83 years of age. She was born April 8, 1935, daughter of the late Boyd and Mary (Dalton) Hearn in Greenwood, Arkansas.

DL Capt. Jack Michael Shirkey


~ IN MEMORY ~
Military veteran, DL Capt. Jack Michael Shirkey
October 6, 1948 ~ May 8, 2020


Notification with the passing of retired Delta pilot Captain Jack Michael Shirkey, age 71.  Captain Shirkey joined Delta Air Lines 05-15-1978 and was based ATL/030.  He is survived by his wife Llynn plus many other dear family members. 
Captain Shirkey’s obituary is available online at
Obituary information notes that a celebration of his life will be held at a later date.
Thank you,
~ Carol for the PCN 

Obituary…………Jack Michael Shirkey
Jack Michael Shirkey, 71, St. Augustine, passed away May 8, 2020 at Symphony at St. Augustine. He was born October 6, 1948 in Connersville, IN, son of the late James and Jane Shirkey. He had been a part time resident of St. Augustine since 1991 and full time the last 2 1/2 years. He was of the Catholic faith.
Jack entered the Naval Air program in 1970, following graduation from Indiana University. There he was nominated for the astronaut program and flew the E2C Hawkeye off the carrier USS America. He retired as a commander after 39 years of active duty and the Naval Reserve. He also retired from Delta Airlines as a Captain on the Boeing 767 after 25 years of commercial flying.
Jack was quite the outdoorsman, hiking the Appalachian Trail, the Grand Canyon and in all the federal parks. He was a distance runner, completing several marathons, played tennis and golf, biked the Hilly Hundred in Indiana and loved scuba diving with his family. The great outdoors will truly miss him. He and Lil traveled extensively, both domestic and internationally. It was a great life. He had so many friends and family members that will miss him terribly, especially Lil. Jack always liked to say "it's been a good life all in all." A celebration of his life will be held at a later date
Jack is survived by his wife of 49 years, Llynn "Lil" Shirkey, St. Augustine; brothers William "Bill" Shirkey, Jacksonville, Joe Shirkey, Indianapolis, IN, sister Beth Goble, Florence, KY and numerous nieces and nephews.
St. John's Family Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

DL Capt. Merwin Fay Stroup


~ IN MEMORY ~
USN veteran, DL Capt. Merwin Fay Stroup
June 9, 1940 ~ April 7, 2020


Friends write us to share this news of Captain Stroup’s passing:  “Sad to report that we lost another MSY Captain.  Merwin Stroup passed away peacefully at his home in Covington on Tuesday, April 7.  Stroup had suffered for many years with a condition called Frontotemporal Dementia.  Shelia, his spouse, said he will be cremated and there will be a celebration at a much later date.”  Delta Golden Wings member retired Delta pilot Captain Stroup, age 79, joined Delta Air Lines 08-15-1969.  Captain Stroup’s obituary is now available online at
Read more of Captain Stroup’s military career at
For those wishing to send a personal note to the family, that home address is
74640 Allen Rd.,  Covington, LA 70435-6502
Thank you,
~ Carol for the PCN 

Obituary…………. Merwin Fay Stroup
On Tuesday, April 7, 2020, Merwin Fay Stroup, 79, died quietly at his home near Covington, Louisiana, from progression of frontotemporal dementia. Like other Very Important People, he was known by the singular "Stroup." He is survived by Sheila Tierney Stroup, his wife of 54 years; his son Keegan and wife, Suzanne; his daughter Shannon; his daughter Claire Stroup Walton and her husband, Randall; and a sister, Jane Stroup Schwanz, and her husband, Doug. He was affectionately called "Grandpa" by his Arlington, Virginia, grandchildren: Kiernan, Grace, Aidan, Maren, Declan, and Willa Stroup; and "Bumpa" by Devery and Cilie Stroup of Covington and Tierney, Holden, Rory, and Laird Walton of Valdosta, Georgia. He is also fondly remembered by nieces, nephews and cousins.
Born June 9, 1940, in Millbrook, Illinois, to Fay and Mabel Stroup, he lived a farm life doing farm things and was known as "Buster." That's about all we know of his childhood, as he was not wont to expound on it. A teacher did write on one of his report cards that he "never let his studies interfere with his social life."
Stroup attended the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana, where he met Sheila, who, fortunately for us all, did not cull him after he told her to stop shuffling her feet on their first date. After graduating from the U of I in 1964, he joined the Naval Reserve and headed to Pensacola, Florida, for flight training. He and Sheila married Labor Day weekend in 1965, when he managed to get a 3-day leave. They moved to Corpus Christi, Texas, for his advanced training, and in 1966, he joined VP-8 in Patuxent River, Maryland, and flew the P-3A, performing reconnaissance off the coast of Vietnam during his first deployment. After completing his service, he promised Sheila he would never leave her again. He accepted a job with Delta Air Lines in August 1969, and headed to Atlanta for training, leaving Sheila in Maryland with 3-week-old twins. He was assigned to the base in New Orleans, and in November they relocated to Covington with their infant son and daughter and two basset hounds. During his 30-year career, Stroup flew the DC-9, 737, 757, and 767ER.
In 1972, the Stroups moved to the country where, on his days off, Stroup raised chickens, honeybees and organic vegetables; volunteered as a baseball and basketball coach for his children; and honed his woodworking skills in his workshop. He retired in 1999 to enjoy the quiet life: bugging his wife, being bugged by his wife, and dining with her at Gallagher's regularly as a reward for putting up with each other. He also pursued random projects, such as training donkeys to pull a cart, a valiant effort that resulted in exciting and sometimes harrowing rides for his three oldest grandchildren. He was much more successful at woodworking -- producing many beautiful pieces of furniture that will be cherished for generations, and renovating the Stroup home with his custom-made cabinets, trim, and doors. Despite sometimes coming across as brusque and scary, especially to teenagers, related and unrelated alike, Stroup was a caring man with a soft heart, and he ultimately agreed to every last ridiculous request made of him, from buying a starter home with no real bedrooms to building rabbit barns for a years-long "fall semester" 4H project, to letting ducklings be raised in a bedroom as part of a science-fair experiment on imprinting (NOT recommended). After initially declaring, "No more animals!" he would let every homely creature that showed up in the ditch join the family.
His generosity was immense, but quiet. He never trumpeted his charity, and just discreetly gave a hand or a dollar or sage advice while asking nothing in return. He believed that you take care of the people you love and the people who need you, and he instilled a strong work ethic and over-developed sense of responsibility in us, his children. We are truly blessed to have grown up in a house with such amazing, loving, and supportive parents, even though they made us pick comfrey, do chores, and sleep in what was really a utility room (because, at first, no bedrooms). We would especially like to thank Kent Bossier, Stroup's long-term caregiver and companion, who allowed him to live his last years at home in comfort, with dignity. When the world is a little bit saner and safer, we will have a party in Stroup's honor, where we will eat a lot (Gallagher's, of course), talk about eating, and remember all the funny stories of our dad's life. Guests will be asked to run a few minutes late, just to irritate him. Donations can be made to the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD) or a favorite charity. Or just do a nice thing for someone else for no apparent reason.

DL Capt. Samuel W. Barazzone


USAF veteran, DL Capt. Samuel W. Barazzone
December 22, 1939 ~ May 13, 2020


Sharing this sad news from the Barazzone family and friends, the passing of Delta Golden Wings member retired Delta pilot Captain Sam Barazzone, age 80.  Captain Barazzone joined Delta Air Lines 04-03-1967 and retired with Delta in December 1999, based 031/ATL.  He is survived by his wife Gwen. 
Obituary information is available online at
As well, please see notice below.
Thank you,
~ Carol for the PCN

 Sympathy Notice - Sam Barazzone

 Sam Barazzone went home to be with the Lord Wednesday evening, May 13th, after a brief battle with cancer.

A private family memorial service will be held later.

Please pray that God's comfort and love surrounds and holds
Gwen. 


Condolence cards may be sent to Gwen at

6517 Yacht Club Road
Flowery Branch, Ga 30542

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to

Eagle Ranch
PO Box 7200
Chestnut Mountain, GA 30502

Jesus said, "I go to prepare a place for you that where I am you may be also."
May Sam be free of pain and enjoy the wonders of heaven in the presence of Jesus.  

Rev. Bruce Shortell
Fleet Chaplain

University Yacht Club, 6649 Yacht Club Road, Flowery Branch, GA 30542




Obituary:   Mr. Samuel W. Barazzone, 80
Samuel W. Barazzone, age 80, was called home on May 13, 2020.

A private family memorial service will be held later.

Born on Dec 22, 1939 in Bluefield, WV, he was loving husband to Gwen Barazzone, father to Lesley Brodbeck and the late Ryan Barazzone. He was grandad to Jessica, Emily, and Nick Brodbeck. He was also brother to Esther Barazzone, Vincent Barazzone ("Bart" deceased), and half siblings Irma Barazzone, Barry Barazzone, and Rudolph Vukojevich. He was deeply loved and respected by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends for his life affirming energy, and fair and caring ways.

His legacy includes many adventures throughout his life. He attended the Air Force Academy after high school where he learned to fly. He graduated from Concord College in West Virginia. He joined the Air Force and served from 1961-1966, where he earned the rank of Lieutenant before starting a career with Delta Airlines in 1967. After he’d flown every jet in Delta's fleet, routinely on international flights, and became one of its youngest Captains ever, he retired on January 1, 2000. He always enjoyed all machines, and "piloted" motorcycles, sailboats, and cars.  He spent time at University Yacht Club where he was Commodore in 2003.   He also loved skiing, playing tennis, as well as being with his family and friends. Later in life, he, Gwen, and their dog Bodie spent many happy hours together at their home on Amelia Island.  He was a loving, kind, and generous man and will be deeply missed. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Eagle Ranch, PO Box 7200, Chestnut Mountain, GA 30502.

Memorial Park South Funeral Home, 4121 Falcon Parkway, Flowery Branch, Georgia 30542 is in charge of arrangements.  Send on-line condolences to www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com