NWA Stewart G. Lee, Director of Flt Ops

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

USAF WWII veteran, NWA Stewart Gilmer Lee

November 21, 1923 - May 25, 2026

 

Following his military service, Stewart enjoyed a distinguished 40-year career with Northwest Airlines, where he served as Director of Flight Operations……………..

PCN memorial site

 

To share memories online and to view more photos, please visit the funeral home site at

https://www.washburn-mcreavy.com/obituaries/stewart-lee-3/#!/Obituary

Obituary for Stewart Gilmer Lee

Stewart G. Lee, age 102, of St. Louis Park, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at home on Memorial Day, May 25, 2026. The date was especially fitting, as Stewart proudly served his country during World War II and later advanced to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Air Force, remaining deeply proud of his military service throughout his life.

Born and raised in Montevideo, Minnesota, Stewart graduated from high school in Vermillion, South Dakota, in 1941. He entered military service on June 11, 1943, at Fort Snelling, Minnesota, and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant and navigator in August 1944 in Hondo, Texas.

Assigned to B-24 aircraft with the 11th Bombardment Group, Stewart served in the Pacific campaign during World War II, flying long-range search missions from bases across the Pacific as Allied forces advanced toward Japan.

One of the most memorable moments of his service occurred on August 6, 1945, while returning from a mission over Japan. Stewart and his fellow crew members observed an enormous and unusual cloud rising in the distance. Upon landing in Okinawa, they learned they had observed the massive cloud created by the first atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima. Following Japan's surrender, Stewart and his crew flew their aircraft, the "Lady from Hades," across the Pacific on the journey home. After surviving an engine failure and a series of island-hopping flights through Guam, Kwajalein, Johnston Island, Honolulu, and finally California, they learned their faithful aircraft would be retired to the boneyard after carrying them safely home.

Following his military service, Stewart enjoyed a distinguished 40-year career with Northwest Airlines, where he served as Director of Flight Operations. He was an avid reader with an impressive personal library and rarely missed reading the daily newspaper. Stewart enjoyed playing cards, golfing, watching virtually any sport, and hunting for treasures at garage sales. Most of all, he cherished time spent with family and friends.

Stewart often shared stories of his wartime experiences, preserving a firsthand connection to a pivotal chapter in world history.

Stewart is survived by his wife of 10 years, Joyce Tibbs; daughter, Cyndi (Tim) Bothwell; daughter-in-law, Mary Lee; and bonus daughter, Alison (Steve) Caputo. He is also survived by grandchildren Bryan and Erin Bothwell, Patrick Healey (Nicole Heuer), Cindy (Tom) Blomquist, Valerie and Amanda Beery, Heather (Jeremy) Pendleton, Sean and Nick Pile, Chris (Cassie) Sanko, Shannon Sanko, and Jessica Sanko; great-grandson Michael Crosbie; bonus great-grandchildren Evan and Isabel Pile; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 51 years, Wanda Lee; his son, Gary Lee; and stepdaughters Jana Pile and Jill Sanko.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 13, at Plymouth Lutheran Church, 11015 Old County Road 15, Plymouth, MN 55441. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the service at 11:00 a.m. Lunch will be served following the service.

NOTE: Due to ongoing road construction in the area surrounding the church, guests are advised to take Hwy 55 to Revere Lane (go south) and then follow map directions to the church. Although some navigation systems may indicate that the road is closed, it is currently a passable dirt road and remains accessible to church visitors.

For those unable to attend in person, the service will be livestreamed on Plymouth Lutheran Church's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@plymouthlutheran9757/streams

Military Honors and interment at Fort Snelling National Cemetery will be held for family members on July 15 at 9:30 a.m.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers, family members, friends, and hospice staff whose kindness, support, and dedication helped Stewart remain comfortable and cared for in his home during his final years.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to MACV (Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans), supporting Minnesota veterans and their families, or to Plymouth Lutheran Church.

"A life well lived leaves a lasting legacy in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know and love him."

DL Capt. Jack Daniels Woodul

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

Military veteran, DL Capt. Jack Daniels Woodul

October 19, 1940 - May 20, 2026

 

Accomplished aviator, Vietnam war veteran, author, family man………..

Jack joined Delta Air Lines 12-04-1967 and retired with Delta based Dallas.  He is survived by his wife Carolyn, and by his two sons and their families.  Jack had most recently resided in New Mexico per whitepapers listing : 288 Bartlett Mesa Rd, Raton, NM 87740. 

PCN memorial site

https://www.legacy.com/person/Jack-Daniels-Woodul-61493381

Jack's Obituary

In loving memory, we honor and celebrate the life of Jack Daniels Woodul, who peacefully departed this world on May 20, 2026, at the age of 85. Jack was surrounded by the warmth of his beloved family in the comfort of his home, in Raton, NM a testament to a life filled with love and devotion.

Jack was born on October 19, 1940, in Portales, New Mexico, to Parker A Woodul and Ima Mae (Bobbye) Daniels Woodul. Jack carried the values instilled in him by his parents throughout his life, always cherishing family and duty above all else. He is predeceased by his father, Parker A Woodul, his mother Ima Mae (Bobbye) Daniels Woodul and his brother William J. Woodul.

May Jack rest in eternal peace, his spirit soaring high and free, just as he did in life. Educated in his hometown, Jack graduated from Portales High School in 1958. He then pursued higher education at the University of New Mexico, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree.

With a passion for service and adventure, Jack gained a Naval commission as an Ensign in February 1963. He embarked on a distinguished military career, completing Naval flight training and serving as a carrier aviator and combat veteran of the Vietnam War. Jack continued to serve his country in the Naval Reserves, flying fighter aircraft even after his active duty concluded.

In 1967, Jack transitioned to a civilian career with Delta Air Lines, where he spent thirty proud years. His dedication and skill led him to the esteemed position of International Captain, from which he retired after a fulfilling career, having safely guided countless passengers to their destinations.

 

On January 5, 1962, Jack married the love of his life, Carolyn Volpato Woodul. Their union spanned an incredible 64 years, marked by unwavering love, partnership, and shared adventures. Carolyn survives him, along with their two devoted sons, Douglas Parker Woodul and his wife Amy, and Jon Christopher Woodul and his brother James E. Woodul (Lida). Jack’s legacy extends to his cherished grandchildren: Kaylie Elizabeth Woodul (Andrew), Austin Parker Woodul, Madeline Paige Woodul, and Parker Michael Woodul, as well as his great-grandchildren, Avani and Elio Luna Woodul, who brought boundless joy to his later years.

As an accomplished writer, Jack co-authored “Duel Over Douai: A Novel of First World War Aviation.” He also wrote “The Breaks of Naval Air: The Further Adventures of Youthly Puresome.” He was a featured contributor to the Hook Magazine of Naval Aviation. Also, he was a long-time runner and competed in many races and marathons.

DL Capt. Richard E. Ward

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

USAF veteran, DL Capt. Richard E. Ward

March 18, 1951 - November 9, 2025

 

Flying, the great outdoors, God and family: These were the four passions of Richard Ward…..

 

Richard Eugene Ward joined Delta Air Lines 08-24-1979 and retired with Delta in 2005 based ATL.  Captain Ward is survived by his wife Christine, and by his daughters and their families. 

PCN memorial site   

https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/291710688/richard-eugene-ward

 Interment: Georgia National Cemetery

https://southcare-16518.meaningfulfunerals.net/obituary/richard-ward

Richard Ward obituary

Flying, the great outdoors, God and family: These were the four passions of Richard E. Ward, who passed away at age 74 on November 9, 2025. He was surrounded by the love of his life and their three daughters.

 

Son of Wayne and Violet (Redenbaugh) Ward, Richard was born on March 18, 1951 and grew up in Ralston, Nebraska as the youngest of four siblings. He attended the University of Nebraska at Omaha, which is where he met, courted, and married his bride of 51 years, Christine Branecki. Upon graduation, Richard immediately entered pilot training and served in the U.S. Air Force, where he flew KC-135s and RC-135s. Richard and Christine built a life together in Omaha, NE; Rome, NY; Euless, TX; and Marietta, GA. And he extended his aviation career beyond the Air Force when he took flight with Delta Airlines in 1979. After spending over 25 years in skies around the world, Richard retired as a captain in 2005.

 

Richard’s love for the outdoors flared when he saw the Grand Canyon for the first time while on his honeymoon with Christine. In the years that followed, he'd return again and again, bringing friends and family members to backpack, camp out in "God's country," and traverse trails so narrow that the memory alone makes his hiking companions sweat. He loved all the National Parks and would plan day hikes, backpacking trips, and RV excursions with anyone willing to adventure with him.

 

Throughout his life, Richard devoted himself as a disciple of Christ, serving faithfully as His hands and feet. Whether he was stocking the shelves of a local food pantry, packing boxes for Samaritan’s Purse, volunteering at his church, helping with construction projects at a camp for underprivileged kids, or teaching schoolchildren basic woodworking skills, Richard continually strived to meet the needs of anyone he could help.

 

 And no one benefited more from Richard’s acts of service than his family. Each one has been inspired by his legacy of assistance, humility, and compassion. They love and miss him deeply.

 

Richard is preceded in death by his parents, his sister Michele, his brother Jack, and his grandson George. He is survived by his wife, Christine; his children, Kari Mattingly (Tyler), Andrea Azuz (Carl), Julie Fortenberry (Ben); and nine grandchildren: Ella, Emily, Evie, Ty, Adelaide, Andrew, Aaron, Charlotte, and Will. He is also survived by his brother Jim and sisters-in-law Helene and Amy.

 

A celebration of Richard’s life will be held on November 15, 2025 at 2:00 pm at Johnson Ferry Baptist Church in Marietta, GA. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his honor to Mission Aviation Fellowship or Camp Grace.

 

Brought to you by Southcare Cremation & Funeral Society https://southcare-16518.meaningfulfunerals.net

  

DL Capt. Calvin Roy "Buddy" Lott Jr.

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

USAF, DL Capt. Calvin Roy "Buddy" Lott Jr.

April 13, 1954 — May 22, 2026

 

His grandchildren affectionately called him “Jet”………………

Captain Lott joined Delta Air Lines 06-20-1988.  He is survived by his wife Kathy, and by his daughter Anita and her family.  The Lotts reside in the Fort Worth area per whitepages: 9124 Benview Ct, Fort Worth, TX 76126.

 

PCN memorial site

 

https://www.thompsonfunerals.com/obituaries/calvin-lott-jr

Calvin Roy "Buddy" Lott Jr. passed away on Friday, May 22, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of service, devotion, and deep love for his family.

 

Born on April 13, 1954, in Houston to Anita and Calvin Lott, Buddy grew up with a strong sense of purpose and dedication. He graduated from Waltrip High School and went on to attend the United States Air Force Academy. He later earned his Master’s degree from Webster University.

 

Buddy proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, retiring with the rank of Colonel. A distinguished F‑4 fighter pilot, he devoted his career to excellence, leadership, and the safety of those he served alongside. After retiring from the Air Force, Buddy continued his lifelong passion for aviation as a Captain with Delta Air Lines and later as the Principal Operations Inspector for American Airlines with the Federal Aviation Administration.

 

Above all, Buddy was a loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His grandchildren affectionately called him “Jet,” a name that captured both his aviation legacy and the joyful, larger‑than‑life presence he brought to their lives. He cherished time spent with his family, found joy on the golf course, and delighted in the companionship of his dogs. His greatest happiness came from his grandchildren, who brought light and laughter to his life. He was a faithful member of St. Andrew Catholic Church, Houston Oaks Country Club, and the Order of Daedalians.

 

Buddy was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Roylyn Anderson; and his grandson, Timothy Blake Jordan. He is survived by his beloved wife, Kathy Lott; his daughter, Anita Jordan, and her husband, Will; and his grandsons, Pierce, Sean, and Ian Jordan; along with numerous extended family members and dear friends.

 

Memorials: In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the US Air Force Academy Association and Foundation or the Stevenson Companion Animal Life‑Care Center.

 

The family invite friends to a Rosary Service at 6:00 p.m. on Monday, June 1, 2026 at Thompson’s Harveson & Cole Funeral Home, 4350 River Oaks Blvd., Fort Worth, with visitation continuing until 8:00 p.m.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, June 2, 2026 at St. Andrew Catholic Church, 3312 Dryden Road, Fort Worth.  

Interment will be at 1:45 p.m. Thursday, June 4, 2026 at Houston National Cemetery.

 

 

 

NWA Capt. Joe William Black

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

USAF, EAL/NWA Capt. Joe William Black

October 24, 1946 ~ May 22, 2026

 

Faced with the Vietnam War, Joe decided that it would be better to “fly over Vietnam rather than crawl through the jungles” and so he opted to serve his country in the US Air Force…………

Joe joined Northwest Airlines 02-02-1990 and likely retired in 2006 prior to the NWA-DL merger.  Joe is survived by close friends and aviation colleagues, as well as many dear family members.

PCN memorial site  

 

https://www.parkerwhitepruitt.com/obituaries/item/4486-joe-william-black

Atlanta, GA ~ Joe William Black, 79, of Atlanta, GA, entered his eternal rest on Friday, May 22, 2026. Joe was born in Anderson, SC, a son of the late William (Bill) Black and Edna Davis Black. His early years were spent in Honea Path and Ware Shoals, SC, and much of his school years in Johnston, SC. He was a 1964 graduate of Strom Thurman High School where he played trumpet in the school marching band. He received his BS in Business Administration from the University of SC in 1968. He later completed his Master of Arts in 1978 at Webster University.

 

Faced with the Vietnam War, Joe decided that it would be better to “fly over Vietnam rather than crawl through the jungles” and so he opted to serve his country in the US Air Force. He completed his Undergraduate Pilot Training at Laredo Air Force Base flying C-130s. He was later stationed in Taiwan with Tactical Air Command and flew sorties in and out of Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and Malaysia. He also flew the T-39 (Saberliner), transporting Air Forces officers and government officials to various locations. After returning to the states he was stationed at Langley Air Force Base and was later promoted to the rank of Captain and assigned to the Air Lift Command Center (ALCC) at Scott Air Force Base in O’Fallon, Illinois.

 

After leaving the US Air Force, Joe was hired as a pilot by Eastern Airlines and flew 727s and DC-9s domestically until the demise of Eastern. He then joined Northwest Air Lines flying 727s, DC-9s, and the A130 Air Bus to destinations in the US, Central and South America, Canada and the Caribbean. He retired shortly before the Northwest-Delta Air Lines merger and he remarked on numerous occasions “I never did anything but fly airplanes my whole [adult] life.” He pointed out that his favorite plane to pilot was the DC-9 because it was less automated and “you were really flying the plane”.

 

Joe was a former member of Pi Kappa Alpha and was a long-standing member of the National Gay Pilots Association (NGPA). In recent years he was a member of St. Mark United Methodist Church and was a volunteer in the church’s Tuesday Night Supper Club serving a hot meal to the homeless. He enjoyed gardening but his primary passion in life was traveling, and he traveled at every opportunity. His travels included many locations in the US, the Holy Land (with his mother), Egypt (with his parents), India, numerous European countries, England, Nepal, Canada, Central and South America and the Caribbean. His recent notable travels included the Galapagos Islands, a cruise on the Amazon River and traversing the Panama Canal in both directions. In recent years he gained immense pleasure from spending time with his partner and friends at their summer retreat at the Rivers Edge Campground in Dewey Rose, GA.

 

Joe is survived by his life partner of 26 years, R. Derald Hartley and by his brother and sister-in-law Charlie and Jan Black of Hollywood, SC, nephew Chuck Black and wife Missy of Hollywood, SC and niece Kin Black Joye and husband Ron of James Island, SC. Survivors also include great-niece Emma Black, and great-nephews Charlie Black, Jackson Joye and Ryan Joye. Joe is also survived by his favorite first-cousin David Black of Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

 

The family will receive friends at Parker-White Pruitt Funeral Home, 603 N. Main St., Honea Path, SC from 1:00-2:30 on Tuesday, May 26, 2026. A graveside service will follow in the Black Family plot at Eastview Cemetery where Joe will be buried beside his beloved aunt Rubie Black. A Celebration of Life gathering will be held in Atlanta, GA at a later date. Flowers will be accepted or memorials may be made to the charity of one’s choice. Online condolences may be made at www.ParkerWhitePruitt.com