NWA Capt. Stephen “Steve” Davis Towle

 updated information:  Memorial service for Steve Towle

Dear Friends,  A memorial service for Steve Towle will be held on Friday, February 9 at 10:30 in the chapel at Lake Minnetonka Shores (where Stevie is living). The address is 4515 Shoreline Dr, Spring Park, MN 55384. There will be a light luncheon following.

~ IN MEMORY ~

NWA Capt. Stephen “Steve” Davis Towle

June 16, 1932 ~ January 14, 2024

 

PCN Memorial site

Notice of passing….as shared by RNPA/retired Northwest pilots group:

Friends and Colleagues,

I have been advised that Stephen D. Towle, age 91, died in MSP on January 14, 2024. Steve was hired by NWA on April 4, 1959. He was an RNPA member and therefore will have a pilot obituary posted. The last three years Steve has resided at an assisted living facility, prior to that he resided Wayzata, MN.  More details will be forthcoming.

Full obit:  

Stephen "Steve" David Towle

Stephen "Steve" David Towle

Plymouth-Wayzata Sun Sailor (MN) - Friday, January 26, 2024

Stephen "Steve" D. Towle, aged 91, of Orono, passed away on January 14, 2024.

Born on June 16, 1932, in Winnetka, IL, he was the third child of Julia and Julius Towle. Steve grew up in Winnetka, Illinois, and graduated from New Trier High School. He furthered his education through the ROTC program at Coe College, Cedar Rapids, IA.

Steve is preceded in death by his first spouse, Alice F. Towle, and is survived by his beloved spouse of 46 years, Janet "Stevie" Gilbert; his children, Steve (Margaret), Jeff (Kate), Barry (Debra); step-children, Chris (Clay), Diane (daughter-in-law), Lee, Ann, and Mitch; grandchildren and great-grandchildren; nieces; and his dearest friends.

A distinguished pilot, Steve served in the U.S. Air Force and earned the rank of 1st Lieutenant. His passion for aviation continued with a 33-year career as a pilot, ranking among the top 70 for Northwest Airlines. His fellow pilot and wingman, Chuck Leonard, said that in the Air Force, "No one ranked above him in terms of skillful performance as an aviator."

When off-duty from flying—and in his retirement—Steve's wife, Stevie, played a pivotal role in keeping him grounded with her steadfast support. Steve also fostered numerous lifelong friendships, from grade school on. He was known for his ability to bring people together and make things happen. His confident, proactive nature not only made him a top-notch pilot but also a family member and friend who supported and uplifted others, as evidenced by his generosity during tough times.

In addition to his aviation achievements, Steve was an avid real estate investor, captivated by the intricacies of acquiring and selling properties. The highlight of his investments was a shared horse farm with Roberta and Dick Schmidt, who remained close to Steve as caregivers and confidants.

Steve delighted in organizing events for family, neighbors, and friends that created lasting memories. For a dozen years, he convened his family annually in Lanesboro, MN to share fun relaxing, biking, canoeing, golfing, and attending the theater. He biked and canoed with his grandchildren well into his late 80s—and kept them laughing with his delightful sense of humor. He continued to try new things, participating in a book club and choir in his later years. His favorite moments were reminiscing with friends and family about shared experiences, his piloting adventures, and world travel.

In a musical tribute, his grandson Nate composed the song "F-89 Scorpion," immortalizing Stephen's legacy as a pilot of the historic fighter jet.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, February 9, 2024 at Lake Minnetonka Shores Chapel, 4515 Shoreline Dr., Spring Park, MN 55384. Memorial Service at 10:30am with a reception to follow.

Memorials are suggested to: Wounded Warrior Project.