WA/DL Capt. Wendell Cook

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

USAF veteran, WA/DL Capt. Wendell Lee Cook

June 20, 1942 ~ August 19, 2026

 

Wendell Lee Cook, a decorated military and commercial airline pilot of Argyle, Texas, passed away on August 19, 2026…….on National Aviation Day. He was 84 years old.

Captain Cook joined Western Airlines 03-08-1976 and retired with Delta Air Lines in 2002 based Dallas.  He is survived by his daughter Vanessa, his son Justin, his twin brother Weldon, and his sister Patsy.

 https://www.northdallasfuneralhome.com/obituaries/wendell-cook 

Obituary : Wendell Lee Cook, a decorated military and commercial airline pilot of Argyle, Texas, passed away on August 19, 2026. In a fitting coincidence for a man who spent so much of his life in the sky, he departed this world on National Aviation Day. He was 84 years old.

Born June 20, 1942, in Whiteface, Texas, Wendell grew up in Holtville, California, a small town near the Mexican border. Even as a young man, he distinguished himself both academically and athletically. He was a star basketball player, class president, and valedictorian of his high school. He later attended the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado, graduating in 1966 with a Bachelor of Science degree.

His years in the Air Force marked the beginning of a remarkable career in aviation. He trained on and flew both the F-100 Super Sabre and F-4 Phantom II, distinguishing himself as an exceptional pilot and marksman. At Moody Air Force Base in 1967, he received a flying award during undergraduate pilot training. The following year, during F-100 training at Luke Air Force Base, he received the Barry Goldwater Top Gun Award after placing first in gunnery. In 1969, he again placed first in gunnery during F-4E training at MacDill Air Force Base.

During the Vietnam War, Wendell served as an F-100D pilot at Phan Rang Air Base and later as an F-4 aircraft commander at Ubon Royal Thai Air Force Base. Over approximately two years in Southeast Asia, he flew more than 400 combat missions. His military service earned him numerous decorations, including the Silver Star, Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star, Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Medal, and Purple Heart.

After serving on active duty until 1972, he continued his military service as a major in the Air Force Guard/Reserve. In 1976, he began his commercial aviation career with Western Airlines and later became a captain for Delta Air Lines, where he remained until his retirement in 2002.

 Beyond his accomplishments, Wendell had a big personality, a curious mind, strong opinions, and an infectious enthusiasm for whatever captured his attention. He could talk to anyone, and his presence could shift the energy in a room. He also had a remarkable tenderness toward animals. His bird feeders were always stocked, and stray cats and other assorted “varmints,” as he affectionately called them, could always count on finding a meal.

Wendell was an avid follower of current events and a devoted sports fan—not of any particular team, but seemingly of all of them. If there was a game on TV, there was a good chance he was watching.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Ruby Cook. He is survived by his daughter, Vanessa Cook; his son, Justin Cook; his twin brother, Weldon Cook; and his sister, Patsy Cook.

From a small desert town in California to the Air Force Academy, from the skies over Southeast Asia to the captain’s seat of a commercial airliner, his was a life few people could have imagined. Wendell was accomplished and complicated, curious and charismatic, strong-willed and tenderhearted. He loved aviation, animals, sports, conversation, and the people who mattered most to him.

Wendell had a remarkable life, and his absence leaves a profound space behind. He is deeply loved and will forever be missed. His remains will be interred at the U.S. Air Force Academy Cemetery in Colorado Springs, Colorado, with services to be held at a later date.

 

 

 

WA/DL Capt. Alvin Eatinger

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

WA/DL Capt. Alvin Eatinger

October 16, 1938 ~ June 22, 2026

                                                                                                

As noted in the September issue of the ALPA magazine’s In Memoriam column, the passing of Capt.  Alvin R. Eatinger in June of 2026. Alvin Eatinger, of Ashland, Oregon died after suffering a medical emergency while swimming in Shasta Lake on Monday afternoon, according to the Shasta County Sheriff's Office.

Captain Alvin Ray Eatinger joined Western Airlines 08-29-1966 and retired with Delta Air Lines in 1998 based SLC.  I believe that Al was born/raised in Indiana, and I believe that he was widowed in July of 2019…..but I was unable to find a published online obituary. 

Should we receive more information, I will post to our site.

Thanak you,

~ Carol for the PCN

PCN memorial site

 

https://krcrtv.com/news/local/oregon-man-dies-after-medical-emergency-while-swimming-at-shasta-lake  

SHASTA COUNTY, Calif. — An 87-year-old Oregon man died after a medical emergency while swimming on Shasta Lake on Monday afternoon.

Deputies with the Shasta County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) Boating Safety Unit responded at about 4:23 p.m. on Monday, June 22, 2026, to the Shoemaker Creek area of the Big Backbone Inlet on Shasta Lake for a medical call. Authorities said an adult male, later identified as Alvin Eatinger of Ashland, Oregon, was swimming near a houseboat when he became unresponsive and submerged underwater.

Bystanders pulled him from the water and began providing medical aid before deputies arrived. Deputies continued those lifesaving efforts until paramedics took over.

Eatinger was taken to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The department said Eatinger’s relatives have been notified, and an autopsy will be scheduled.

 

 

WA/DL Capt. Kent Jeffrey

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

WA/DL Capt. Kent Jeffrey

January 8, 1944 ~ June 2026

 

As noted in the August issue of the ALPA magazine’s In Memoriam column, the passing of WA/DL pilot Captain Kent Alan Jeffrey.  I was not able to find an online obituary for Kent but we do have his father WWII USAF fighter pilot Col. Arthur Jeffrey listed in our memorial site at

 https://pcnflightwest.blogspot.com/2015/05/col-arthur-jeffrey-father-of-wadl-capt.html

Kent joined Western Airlines 01-10-1977 and retired with Delta Air Lines in 2004 based LAX. 

Per whitepages, Kent had most recently resided in California :  36 Orange Ave, Larkspur, CA 94939.

If anyone has more information to share, please let us know and we will update this listing.

Thank you,

~ Carol for the PCN

PCN memorial site

WA/DL Capt. Keith Litke

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

USAF veteran, WA/DL Capt. Keith Arnold Litke

June 19, 1947 ~ May 31, 2026

 

Keith joined Western Airlines 02-19-1979 and retired with Delta Air Lines based CVG/030.  Keith is survived by his wife Marsha, and by his children and their families.

For those who may wish to send a personal note, I see the Litke’s address listed in whitepages as

18922 Covey Ct., Grass Valley, CA 95949.

Thank you,

~ Carol for the PCN

PCN memorial site

 

https://www.hooperandweavermortuary.com/2026/07/17/keith-arnold-litke/ 

 

Keith Arnold Litke, 78, of Grass Valley, CA passed away peacefully on May 31, 2026 at Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital.

Keith was born in San Mateo in 1947 and was the son of Raymond and Nadine Litke. He graduated from Mills High School in 1965 and later earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Aeronautic Operations from San Jose State University. Upon graduation, he joined the United States Air Force, where he spent 8 years as a Pilot, Instructor, and Aircraft Commander, including two years with the 1st Military Airlift Squadron. After separating from the military, Keith became a commercial pilot and spent 28 years as a Captain for Delta Air Lines.

He married his devoted wife Marsha Rodman Litke in 1970, and together they raised two children. In retirement, he found joy in golf, travel, and volunteering his time to causes he was passionate about.

Keith was a friend, mentor, and confidant to many. He will be remembered for his kindness, his unwavering generosity, his invaluable guidance, and the unconditional love and support he gave those he cared for.

To his grandchildren, Lucy and Grady, he was simply “Papa.” Though he lived far from them, distance never kept him from their lives. He logged on to watch their sports games whenever he was able, cheering them on from afar. The children loved him dearly.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Marsha; his son Mark and his wife Deb of Needham, MA; his daughter Meredith of Minneapolis, MN; his beloved grandchildren, Lucy and Grady; his brother Lane Litke and his wife Gaby of San Diego, and their two daughters, Elisa and Sara; and his brother-in-law and dear friend Jack Favour of Grass Valley.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Ken and Janis; and his sister-in-law, Renee Rodman.

WA/DL Linda Malone, wife of WA/DL Capt. Dan Malone

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

Linda Malone, wife of WA/DL Capt. Dan Malone

August 8, 1947 ~ August 12, 2026

 

In her final moments she continued to be an inspiration…………..

 

Linda is survived by her husband Dan, and by her children and their families.

PCN memorial site

 

https://www.hansenmortuary.com/obituaries/Linda-Carol-Malone?obId=49238567   

 Linda Carol Malone Obituary

 

Linda Carol Malone (born Smith), 79, passed away peacefully on August 12, 2026, surrounded by family.

 

Linda was born on August 8, 1947, in Los Angeles, California, where she grew up until the age of sixteen when her family moved to Phoenix, Arizona. When she showed up at Washington Highschool, it was love at first sight for Dan Malone. “I’m going to marry that girl someday,” crossed his mind as he watched her cross the courtyard. The two were married in 1968 and shared 58 years of marriage, living their vows of love to the fullest, through sickness and in health. Their marriage was a model to so many of what true devotion looks like. Their love overflowed.

 

Linda earned a B.A. in Home-Ec and worked as a flight stewardess before devoting herself fully to her family and home. She had a gift for making everyone feel welcome, nourished with good food and lots of chat, and her home was always open to friends and family. She could make a friend anywhere and usually did! She was an avid tennis player, an enthusiastic shopper, and a talented knitter and seamstress who loved making handmade gifts especially for her grandchildren. She also enjoyed gatherings with her Bridge Club (formed with neighborhood women back in the early 80’s… though we’re not sure how much Bridge was actually played!) and cherished time with her many friends.

 

Linda's faith and love for Jesus was central to her life. She was raised in a Christian home and remained dedicated to the Christian faith throughout her life, reading her Bible every morning, and pouring herself out in love for others. She was a long-time member of Scottsdale Bible Church and was recently chrismated in the Orthodox Christian Church.

 

Her battle with ALS began last summer, robbing her of the ability to talk, eat, and eventually move. She bore this horrendous disease with grace and strength. Her deep inner beauty and strong faith radiated peace. In her final moments she continued to be an inspiration.

 

Linda is survived by her husband, Dan; her son, Kevin; her daughter, Karie Johnson, and spouse, Adam; her daughter, Megan Gilbert, and spouse, Gaelan; and seven grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings, Darrell and Marilyn.

 

She was preceded in death by her sister, Kathy, and her parents, Barbara and Russell Smith.

 

A memorial service will be held on Monday, August 17, 12:30 p.m. at Hansen Mortuary Chapel on 7th street, followed by a gathering at Dan and Linda’s home.

 

In place of flowers, please consider a donation to Hospice of the Valley and ALS AZ.

WA/DL Capt. Howard Anderson “Andy” Bowles

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

Navy veteran, WA/DL Capt. Howard Anderson “Andy” Bowles

January 6, 1936 ~ July 30, 2026

 

Retired WA/DL Capt. Howard Anderson “Andy” Bowles Jr. joined Western Airlines 01-13-1969 and retired with Delta Air Lines based SLC.  Andy is survived by his wife Molly, and by his daughters and their families. 

A Celebration of Life event will be held for Captain Bowles at a later date.

PCN memorial site

 

 

Obituary  :  Howard Anderson “Andy” Bowles, devoted husband, father, grandfather, naval aviator, airline captain, and lifelong adventurer, passed away peacefully at his home in Los Altos, California on July 30, 2026 at the age of 90.

 

Born in Alhambra, California, on January 6, 1936, Andy was awarded a Navy scholarship to and graduated from the University of Washington with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering before answering a calling to serve his country as a United States Naval Aviator.

Andy retired as a Commander in the U.S. Navy after a distinguished career that included service during the Vietnam War and command of Patrol Squadron VP-91.

 

Andy’s passion for flying was matched by his love for telling the stories of the extraordinary people with whom he served.

 

Following his military service, Andy enjoyed a second career in the skies, flying for Western Airlines and later as a Captain for Delta Air Lines. Whether in the cockpit or at home, he was most comfortable when guiding others with quiet confidence, sound judgment, and an unfailing sense of responsibility.

 

For nearly sixty-eight years, Andy shared a remarkable marriage with the love of his life, Molly Bowles. Together they built a home grounded in love, laughter, and unwavering support for their family.

 

He is survived by his beloved wife, Molly; his daughters, Susan Zecher (Jim Zecher) and Shari Bowles Gibbons (Phil Gibbons); his grandchildren, Tim Zecher and Catie Zecher; and his brother, Bill Bowles (Judie Bowles).

 

To those who knew him, Andy will be remembered less for the titles he held than for the man he was. He believed in taking responsibility for one’s actions, working hard, treating others with kindness, and stepping forward when leadership was needed. He raised his daughters to embrace those same values, and they became the foundation upon which generations of his family continue to build their lives.

 

Andy possessed an effortless sense of humor that never faded, even during his final years. Those close to him looked forward to spending time with Andy because he made them laugh and treated them like family. In return, they grew deeply attached to the man whose warmth, optimism, and genuine interest in life brightened every room he entered.

 

Outside of work, Andy loved flying, reading, traveling the world, and sharing stories from a life rich with adventure. Whether recounting military missions, memorable flights, or travels abroad, he had a gift for making every story come alive and every listener feel as though they had been there beside him.

 

His legacy lives on not only through his family but through the countless people who learned from his example that true leadership is measured not by recognition but by character. He demonstrated every day that integrity, accountability, generosity, and humor are among life’s greatest accomplishments.

 

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.

 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Brain Donation Network in honor of Andy’s lifelong commitment to advancing knowledge and helping future generations.

 

Fair winds and following seas, Captain. Thank you for showing us how to live with courage, humility, and joy.

WAL Sherrie” Wilson-Walton, wife of WA/DL Capt. Mike Walton

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

Sharon “Sherrie” Wilson-Walton, wife of WA/DL Capt. Mike Walton

May 22, 1942 – August 15, 2026

PCN memorial site

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/phoenix-az/sharon-walton-13007334

On August 15, 2026, I said goodbye to the love of my life. Sherrie passed away peacefully and without pain in Scottsdale, Arizona, after a brief but heroic battle with bone cancer. For 58 wonderful years, she was my co-pilot, my strength, and my best friend.

 

Born in Des Moines, Iowa, Sherrie attended Drake University before following her adventurous spirit into aviation at age 20. She began as a stewardess for Braniff Airways in Dallas and later moved to Seattle to fly the Lockheed Constellation for Pacific Northern Airlines to Alaska, a land and people she grew to love deeply. That was where our story truly began—on my very first flight with PNA to Kodiak, Alaska. I fell in love with her grace and love for life. We were married in Hawaii in July 1968, embarking on a life rich in family, service, and extraordinary adventure. Sherrie remained in the airline industry until retiring from Western Airlines in 1975.

 

Sherrie’s heart belonged entirely to her family. Together, we adopted our two beautiful daughters from Thailand and a son from Iowa. She immersed herself in every moment of their lives—cheering at soccer games, sitting through cheerleading practices, helping with homework, and walking the fairways during Jr. PGA tournaments. When our family grew, she poured that same fierce, tender love into being a grandmother to Victoria, John, Peyton, Cameron, Karson, Paris, and Blake.

 

In 1975, we moved to Scottsdale, living along a green golf course before settling in Cave Creek in 1987 so Sherrie could have her horses. She had a wonderful gift for thoughtful gestures. For our second wedding anniversary, she bought me a Stearman aircraft project—a labor of love we worked on and flew together for 44 years, later a gold placer claim in Arizona.

 

Sherrie had a deep, protective love for animals and children. She spent 17 years with the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office Mounted Search and Rescue, frequently riding her Mustang, Cheyenne, through the trails of the National Forest north of Phoenix. Her courage saved lives: she provided emergency medical aid to a woman crushed under a horse and heroically located a young boy lost in northern Arizona during the dead of winter.

 

Even with a full heart at home, she never stopped learning or giving back. Sherrie earned a degree in Archaeology, volunteered with the Phoenix Art Museum, Kiwanis of Carefree, and the BLM Mustang program, and shared the world with us on family journeys across America, Thailand, Korea, Europe, Russia, and England.

 

Sherrie had an extraordinary knack for making lifelong friends wherever she stepped. She is survived by her husband, Michael; daughters Kimberly Emminger and Tanya (Jack) Maixner; and her seven grandchildren. She lived fully, loved deeply, and left a legacy of courage, warmth, and joy that will stay with us forever.

WA/DL Capt. Vern Cardon

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

USAF veteran, WA/DL Capt. Vern Cardon

November 10, 1944 ~ August 8, 2026

 

Vern's life was one of hard work and determination — from farm boy to military pilot to airline captain………………

Vern Ray Cardon joined Western Airlines 05-14-1979 and retired with Delta Air Lines based SLC.  Vern is survived by his wife Mary Lynn “Bunny”, and by his children and their families. 

Having most recently resided in Washington state, I see their address listed in whitepages as

18520 N West Shore Rd, Nine Mile Falls, WA 99026.

Services for Vern will be held August 28-29^th in Spokane….please see obituary below.

PCN memorial site

 

https://www.holycrossofspokane.org/obituaries/vern-cardon

Obituary

Vern Cardon, 81, of Nine Mile Falls, Washington, passed away on August 8, 2026. He was born in Logansport, Indiana, to William Harold Cardon and Geraldine Helen Cardon.

After World War II, Vern's family moved to Hamilton, Montana, eventually settling in Missoula, where he completed elementary and high school. He worked on his father's farm throughout his childhood, using his earnings to help fund his lifelong dream of becoming a pilot. He went on to graduate from the University of Montana in 1968.

It was in Missoula, at the Stop and Go drive-in on Highway 93, where Vern met the love of his life, Mary Lynn, known to everyone as "Bunny." The two married in 1968, beginning a partnership that would carry them across the country and through a lifetime of adventure.

Vern joined the United States Air Force, where he trained as a pilot in Del Rio, Texas — the same year his son, Jason, was born. He was later stationed at Travis Air Force Base flying C-141s, where his daughter, Jaime, was born. Over the course of his military career, Vern served in numerous conflicts, including Vietnam and Desert Storm, flying C-141s and later C-5s. He served ten years of active duty and twelve years in the reserves, retiring from the Air Force as a Lieutenant Colonel.

Concurrent with his military reserve service, Vern joined Western Airlines, which later became Delta Air Lines, where he flew 737s for 24 years until his retirement as Captain.

In retirement, Vern and Bunny settled in Nine Mile Falls, Washington, where he pursued what he often called his biggest passion of all: his grandchildren. He would do anything for them, and in his eyes, they could do no wrong. He made it a point to attend every game, dance recital, gymnastics meet, and school event he possibly could, and always made sure his grandkids had everything they could possibly need. He cherished every moment spent with Kate, Andrew, Karley, Taylor, and Joe.

Vern's Catholic faith was a deep and guiding part of his life. He was baptized in 2006, and went on to become active in nearly every corner of parish life. He served as a Eucharistic minister and usher, and was a member of Assumption's Retired Men's Group. He was a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus and went on several pilgrimages as a follower of Christ. His faith was central to who he was.

Vern was preceded in death by his parents, William Harold Cardon and Geraldine Helen Cardon.

Vern is survived by his wife, Bunny; his son, Jason, and daughter-in-law, Kari; his daughter, Jaime, and son-in-law, Billy; his grandchildren, Kate, Andrew, Karley, Taylor, and Joe; and his brother, Bill, and sister-in-law, Betty Jane, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Vern's life was one of hard work and determination — from farm boy to military pilot to airline captain — but it was always his family that mattered most. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A Rosary will be held Friday, August 28th at 6:00 PM, followed by a Funeral Mass on Saturday, August 29th at 11:00 AM, both at Assumption Parish, Spokane, WA. A reception will follow at Assumption Parish, with interment at Holy Cross Cemetery.

Memorial donations can be made to "Assumption Parish Capital Campaign" or charity of choice

 

 

 

WA/DL Bonnie Delzer, widow of WA/DL Capt. Louie “Carroll” Delzer

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

Bonita “Bonnie” Jo Delzer

September 1, 1935 – June 24, 2026

 

Bonnie is the widow of WA/DL Capt. Louie “Carroll” Delzer who passed in 2024.

 

https://www.legacy.com/legacy/bonita-bonnie-delzer

Bonita “Bonnie” Jo Delzer's Obituary

Bonita “Bonnie” Jo Delzer
September 1, 1935 – June 24, 2026

Bonita “Bonnie” Jo Delzer passed away peacefully on June 24, 2026, in Torrance, California. She was 90 years old.

Born in Fargo, North Dakota, Bonnie was the daughter of Franklin and Marjorie Van Osdel. She graduated from the University of North Dakota with a bachelor’s degree in English and a minor in Library Science. During her college years, she was a proud member of the Alpha Phi sorority.

In 1957, Bonnie married L. Carroll Delzer. Following their marriage, Carroll joined the U.S. Air Force, and together they lived in Oklahoma and Massachusetts before settling in California when Carroll accepted a position with Western Airlines.

In 1971, Bonnie and her family moved into their new home in Palos Verdes Estates, where she lived until 1990. She then made her home in Torrance, where she happily spent the remainder of her life. Bonnie cherished her many years in the South Bay community.

Bonnie was a devoted member of P.E.O., a philanthropic organization dedicated to helping women pursue educational opportunities, for more than 70 years. She found joy in many hobbies and interests throughout her life. She loved Hummel figurines, cats and dogs—especially Scottish Terriers—and was an avid reader who rarely passed up a good book. She also enjoyed crossword and jigsaw puzzles. In her younger years, she loved water skiing, playing tennis, and creating beautiful needlepoint and cross-stitch pieces.

Bonnie will be lovingly remembered by her three daughters, Becky Hughes of San Bernardino, California; Tammy Finn of Gainesville, Georgia; and Jill Rose of Torrance, California; her sons-in-law, David “Woody” Finn and Raymond Rose; her grandchildren, Kerstin Hughes, Franklin Hughes, Sara Finn, Jenna Finn, and Kori Finn; and her six great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind many dear friends whose lives she touched with her kindness and gentle spirit.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. For service information, please contact the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Bonnie’s honor to Scottish Terrier Rescue of Southern California at https://strsc.net or P.E.O. at https://www.peointernational.org/make-a-gift/

++++++++++++++

https://www.dailybreeze.com/obituaries/louis-carroll-delzer-long-beach-ca/

Louis Carroll Delzer

Birth: 1936   Death: 2024

https://pcnflightwest.blogspot.com/2024/08/wadl-capt-louis-carroll-delzer.html 

Louis Carroll Delzer passed away on July 2, 2024 in Long Beach, CA. He was 87 years old. He was a former resident of Palos Verdes Estates. He was born on December 31, 1936 in Zeeland, ND, the son of Rhinee and Madeline Delzer. Carroll graduated from University of North Dakota. He worked on the Minute Man Project before entering the Air Force. Carroll was in the first class to fly T-38s. He went on to fly B-52s in Vietnam. In 1968 Carroll was hired by Western Airlines where he flew 727s. Western Airlines was bought by Delta Airlines. He flew for the airlines for 28 years and retired as a Captain. Carroll had many favorite things: airplanes of course, researching antique firearms……………

WA/DL Capt. Marvin "Marv" Schrader

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

USAF veteran, WA/DL Capt. Marvin "Marv" Schrader

December 28, 1937 ~ July 24, 2026

 

Marvin “Marv” Curtis Schrader, age 88, was devoted to his family and his Minnesota community …………..He spent his retirement years in service, volunteering at Nature Bend River Center, Sertoma and Rotary clubs. He even learned how to roll lefse and make rosettes for the lutefisk dinner which he chaired for 10 years ………………

 

Marvin Curtis Schrader joined Western Airlines 08-21-1967 and retired with Delta Air Lines based SLC.  He is survived by his wife Sara, and by his children and their families.

For those who may wish to send condolences, I see the family’s address listed in whitepages as   

30 Greenhaven Bay, Faribault, MN 55021.

PCN memorial site

 

https://www.parkerkohlfuneralhome.com/obituaries/marvin-schrader 

 

Marvin C. "Marv" Schrader

Faribault MN

Marvin “Marv” Curtis Schrader, age 88, passed away Friday, July 24, 2026, at United Hospital surrounded by family.

Marvin Curtis Schrader was born December 28, 1937 in Northfield, MN to Fred and Gladys (Kern) Schrader. The 5th of 6 children, Marv was a very curious and adventurous child. He grew up on a farm in Bridgewater Township, west of Dundas, MN. He attended District 97, a one room school, for his first eight years of schooling. In his youth, he was very involved with the 4-H club and also with FFA. In high school, he was involved with different organizations including student government where he was class president. He graduated from Northfield High School in 1955 and went to University of Minnesota. He majored in dairy husbandry and while there, joined the Air Force ROTC program. After graduation in 1959, he married Sara Margaret Nesseth on July 11th, 1959, at Vang Lutheran Church in Holden Township. In March of 1960, they left for Texas and pilot training. He spent seven and half years in the Air Force as a pilot, flying bombers and tanker aircraft in SAC. He joined Western Airlines in 1967. He was called back to the Air Force January 1968 during the Vietnam War until June 1969. He spent the rest of his flying career with Western and then Delta Airlines. He retired in 1995.

Marvin was a world traveler, travelling to 6 of the 7 continents, with 50 trips in 30 years, most with his wife, Sara. His favorite trips were to Vietnam and South Africa. Another memorable trip was a mission trip to Tanzania. After he retired, he and Sara spent their winters in Surprise, Arizona where he showed off his theatrical chops with the Happy Trails Theatre Group. He spent his retirement years in service, volunteering at Nature Bend River Center, Sertoma and Rotary clubs. He even learned how to roll lefse and make rosettes for the lutefisk dinner which he chaired for 10 years at First English Lutheran church.

Marv was happiest when he was surrounded by family, especially spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He devoted his life providing for his family and making sure others were cared for. His sense of humor and generous spirit will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Sara (Nesseth) Schrader. His children, Perry Schrader of Stillwater, MN (sons, Chaz & Bryce Cernous-Schrader), Wendy Smith Becker, (Tim) of Dundas, MN {children Ryan (Becky) Becker, Sara (Cole) Jansen, Cory Becker, Abby Smith & Caleb (Crystal) Becker}, and Brenda Schrader of Superior, WI (stepson, Scott Tyler and Bailey Johnson). His great grandchildren Ian & Blake Jansen (Sara & Cole) and Kinslee & Callahan Becker (Caleb & Crystal). His sister, Ardis Liebenstein of Dundas, MN and Forest “Woody” Schrader (Ione) of Faribault, MN and numerous nieces and nephews.

Marvin was preceded in death by both his parents, his brother, Kenny, and sisters, Marilyn & Eileen.

Memorial service will be held on Thursday, July 30, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. at First English Lutheran Church in Faribault. Military Honors provided by the Rice County Central Veterans Association will take place outside the church following the service. Interment will be held at Meadow Ridge Memorial Park.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 29, 2026 from 4:00 to 6:00 P.M. at Parker Kohl Funeral Home and will continue from 9:30 to 11:00 A.M. at church.

Memorials are preferred to Habitat for Humanity or to a Scholarship in Marv’s honor through the Rotary Strive Program.

Funeral arrangements are being completed by Parker Kohl Funeral Home & Crematory.

WA/DL Capt. John M. Paul

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

USAF veteran, WA/DL Capt. John M. Paul

 November 12, 1938 - May 31, 2026

 

From family we have learned of the passing of retired Western/Delta pilot Captain John Milton Paul Jr, age 87.  John Paul joined Western Airlines 10-30-1967 and retired with Delta Air Lines based Los Angeles.  John Paul is survived by his wife Peggy along with many dear friends and family members.

For those who may wish to send condolences, the Pauls are listed in whtepages as

5172 Bluemound Rd., Rolling Hills Estates, CA 90274.

 

PCN memorial site

 

https://www.echovita.com/us/obituaries/ca/rolling-hills-estates/john-milton-paul-21623775

John Milton Paul Obituary

John Milton Paul of Rolling Hills Estates, California passed away on May 31, 2026. John Milton, born on November 12, 1938, shared life alongside family, friends, and others. You can send your sympathy in the guestbook provided and share it with the family.

John Milton will be remembered for the impact he had on the lives of those around him. Friends, family, and colleagues will cherish their memories and the time shared.

WA/DL Capt. Lothar Biermanski

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

Military veteran, WA/DL Capt. Lothar Biermanski

April 2, 1940 ~ May 3, 2026

From family we have learned of the passing of retired Western/Delta pilot Captain Lothar Biermanski.  Lothar Peter Biermanski began his commercial flying career with Western Airlines 09-03-1968 and retired with Delta Air Lines based SLC.  He is survived by his wife Karen, and by his children and their families along with many dear friends and aviation colleagues.

Bowman Funeral Home of Boise, Idaho is assisting the family.

Should we receive further information, we will be sure to pass it along.

Thank you,

~ Carol for the PCN

PCN memorial site

WA/DL Capt. Joe B. Taylor

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

USAF veteran, WA/DL Capt. Joe B. Taylor

June 19, 1940 ~ May 13, 2026

 

Captain Joseph “Joe” Berens Taylor joined Western Airlines 02-24-1969 and retired with Delta Air Lines based SLC.  Joe is survived by his wife Margaret, and by his large and very close extended family as well as many dear friends and aviation colleagues. 

Joe had most recently resided in Idaho :  1148 N Eagle Hills Way, Eagle, ID 83616.

Joe’s funeral service will be held May 19 at Eagle Nazarene Church, Eagle, Idaho.

 

PCN memorial site

 

To view the obituary and share memories online please visit the funeral home website at

  https://www.aldenwaggoner.com/obituaries/joseph-taylor

Joseph Berens Taylor

d. May 13, 2026

Eagle ID

Joseph Berens Taylor, a retired airline pilot and father of six, passed away of natural causes on May 13 in Boise. He was a month shy of his 86th birthday.

He had recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, though the condition never fully progressed. He remained friendly and retained his sense of humor pretty much until the end.

For the past eight years, Joe lived in Eagle, Idaho, with his wife, Margaret (née Thengvall; later Gee). They first met in high school in the 1950s in Biggs, a small town in Northern California. As family legend has it, Margaret’s father, Ralph, was taken with Joe’s athletic prowess on the football field and basketball court and told him so after a couple of games.

The Taylor family—Ralph, Leona, and Joe—moved to Willows, California, where Joe had been born. (Joe’s older sisters, Lorajean, known as Jeannie, and Lovie, had already moved out.) He attended his senior year in high school there, playing on the football and basketball teams.

Joe was offered a full football and basketball scholarship to the University of North Dakota. He excelled on the football team, playing halfback on offense and safety on defense. During the 1961 season, he rushed for 248 yards, had 135 receiving yards, and scored 38 points. He was selected as the team’s “most valuable back.” His player number, 24, remained his favorite number throughout his life.

As a teenager, Joe was captivated by the sight of crop dusters sweeping low over nearby fields. The thought of becoming a pilot thrilled him, and he decided to learn how to fly a plane and pursue a career in aviation.

In college, Joe enrolled in ROTC, and after graduation he joined the U.S. Air Force. He was stationed at Reese Air Force Base in Lubbock, Texas, where he learned to fly the T-38, and later Otis Air National Guard Base in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, where he gained significant flight time. After five years, he deployed to Vietnam, stationed in Korat, Thailand. He primarily flew T-38s on reconnaissance missions. He also piloted Lockheed C-121s and U-10s, sometimes landing them in areas without prepared runways, including short jungle clearings. His third son, Brett, was born in 1968 while Joe was overseas. His fourth son, Rick, was named after a close friend serving with him.

After returning to the United States, Joe became a pilot for Western Airlines. He loved Western, with its memorable ad tagline, “The only way to fly.” Around the same time, he also joined the Air National Guard. He flew Cessna O-2 aircraft, sometimes transporting the governor of California and other dignitaries. At air shows, he became known for flying the plane backward, made possible by strong winds and low air speeds.

For many years with Western, he was based at the San Francisco International Airport and commuted from towns many miles away, including Dixon. Joe served as first officer on the Boeing 737 and later the 727. In 1987, Delta Air Lines and Western merged. At Delta, he mastered additional aircraft, including the DC-10. In the later years of his flying career, he served as captain on the 757 and 767.

Following mandatory retirement at age 60 in 2000, he worked part-time as a simulator flight instructor for Delta pilots. He also would assert to anybody who would listen that age 60 was too young for mandatory retirement. The flying public was missing out on healthy and highly experienced pilots, he said. In 2007, the longtime “Age 60 Rule” was abolished, and the mandatory retirement age was lifted to 65.

In retirement, Joe enjoyed playing golf, occasional tennis, and watching sports, including football, basketball, and hockey. He especially enjoyed watching his son Grant play tennis and cheering on his grandchildren in golf and many other sports.

In his later years, he became more active in his church community, and his Christian faith became an ever more meaningful source of peace and strength. He found great meaning in reading Scripture and discussing questions of faith with others.

Joe’s adult life unfolded in three chapters. He and his first wife, Bev (née Ferris, now Hansen), made their home in Northern California, where they raised five children: Joe Jr., Tim, Brett, Rick, and Heather. They were married for 15 years.

Later, with his second wife, Beverly (née Arthur), he lived in Salt Lake City and welcomed a son, Grant. They were married for 34 years, until her death in January 2017.

In Boise, Joe found happiness with his third wife, Margaret, and was blessed with three adult stepchildren: Colette, David, and Ian. He also delighted in a large and growing group of step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought him much pride and joy.

His immediate beloved surviving grandchildren include Benjamin, Morgan, Addison, and Colten, from Brett and Stephanie; Taylor and Reagan, from Heather and Jerry; Ella, from Tim (and now Tatiana); and Giuliana (Gigi) and Griffin, from Grant and Cierra.

Years ago, Joe liked to joke that with his first five kids he had created his own basketball team. Over the years, this team grew into a full bench and spilled into the bleachers. One day, it may fill an entire stadium. And somewhere high above, a jersey bearing the number 24 will float in the rafters.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, May 19, at 11:00 a.m. at Eagle Nazarene Church, 1001 W. State Street, Eagle, Idaho. He will be laid to rest in Salt Lake City at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Cru (formerly Campus Crusade for Christ) or Fellowship of Christian Athletes.