DL Capt. W. E. “Gene” Hall

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

DL Capt. W. E. “Gene” Hall

June 18, 1935 ~ February 23, 2024

 

From family we have just learned of the passing of retired Delta Air Lines pilot Captain Willard Eugene “Gene” Hall, age 88.  Captain Hall joined Delta Air Lines 10-09-1959 and retired with Delta in 1995 based ATL/031.  Son-in-law John writes: “Gene passed away in February; much more information is available on his website:       www.wehall.com    I will keep the website online indefinitely.”  

If you go to Gene’s blog site, you will be able to read his blog entries over these past few years.

https://www.wehall.com/  “This site is dedicated to Gene Hall, who passed on February 23, 2024.

A beloved father, husband, and man of God, these are his words.  Gene's memorial service was held March 23, 2024 and can be viewed here.  The service includes his obituary, and a remembrance which features Gene's testimony in the May 1981 issue of the TrimTab newsletter.” 

Memorial service: https://www.wehall.com/240323-GeneHallMemorialService.mp4 

Thank you,

~ Carol for the PCN 

PCN memorial site

Obituary : Willard Eugene “Gene” Hall, age 88, passed away at home on Friday February 23, 2024, surrounded

by his adoring family. He was born in Murphy, North Carolina to the late Willard Dewey Hall and

Evelyn Harris Hall. A captain for Delta Airlines, and a real estate developer, Gene was also a

founding member of The Church of the Apostles in Atlanta, Georgia. A wellspring of energy and

optimism, he was industrious in his many endeavors. A loving father to his girls, and a devoted

husband to his wife Joan, Gene loved Jesus, and some described him as generous to a fault.

Gene left an inheritance of incalculable proportions to his children and grandchildren -- the

testimony that Jesus Christ is our Lord and savior. Although we will miss his ever-present warmth,

his great sense of humor, and his gigantic heart, we rejoice in knowing that he is home with God.

Gene is survived by his wife Joan Mehl Hall; daughters Anne Hall Adams (John) and Tracey Hall

Graham (Eric), and seven grandchildren: Lily Taber, Adele Taber, Elizabeth Graham, Luke Graham,

Phoebe Graham, Sarah Graham, and Rachel Graham.

 The family asks that you consider a donation in his memory to:

 Leading The Way Global Ministry www.ltw.org

WA/DL Capt. Johnnie Mack Zinn

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

WA/DL Capt. Johnnie Mack Zinn

May 6, 1940 ~ December 2, 2023

 

As noted in the April 2024 issue of ALPA’s magazine, the December passing of DL Capt. Johnnie Zinn.  I was not able to locate an online obituary but did find some online grave site information.  Captain Johnnie Mack Zinn joined Western Airlines 4-22-1968 and retired with Delta Air Lines in 2000.   He was based SLC,  then ATL/031 prior to retiring. The Zinns had most recently resided in Florida.  Johnnie’s wife Irene passed in March 2022. 

PCN memorial site

 

Grave site : https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/262254441/johnnie_mack_zinn 

Johnnie Mack Zinn

BIRTH   6 May 1940   Pennsylvania

DEATH  2 Dec 2023 (aged 83)    Bradenton, Manatee County, Florida

BURIAL   Cremated

 

Wife Irene : https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/237769781/irene_claire_zinn

Irene Claire Wilson Zinn

BIRTH   22 Dec 1941    Gardner, Worcester County, Massachusetts

DEATH   17 Mar 2022 (aged 80)   Bradenton, Manatee County, Florida

BURIAL   Buried or Lost at Sea. Specifically: Cremains distributed at sea, Latitude 41.14.48 North.

Longitude: 72.11.70 West. Water depth 161" on August 04, 2022 off the coast of Connecticut.

DL Capt. Jim Pancharian

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

Military veteran, DL Capt. Jim Pancharian

July 17, 1937 ~ April 22, 2024

 

From friends and colleagues, we have learned of the passing of the Delta Golden Wings past president retired Delta pilot Captain James “Jim” Joseph Pancharian, age 86.  Jim joined Delta Air Lines 07-19-1965.  He is survived by his wife Carolyn.

To date I’ve not been able to locate an online obituary….please look for more information to follow in the days ahead.

Condolences may be sent to the Pancharian family at

                1213 Clubhouse Avenue SW

                Huntsville, AL. 35802-5018

 

Thank you,

~ Carol for the PCN

PCN memorial site

Endeavor/DL pilot Brett Philip Johnson

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

Endeavor/DL pilot Brett Philip Johnson

December 6, 1984 - April 20, 2024

Untimely and sad news to share…..Delta Air Lines pilot Brett Philip Johnson, age 39, died unexpectedly by accidental drowning in Mexico while on a work trip.

Obituary information is available online at   

https://www.bertasfh.com/obituary/brett-johnson 

Brett is survived by his wife Cassie, and by his four children as well as by his parents and siblings.

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

834 Gilfillan Ave

Carver, MN 55315

 

PCN memorial site

Obituary :  Brett Philip Johnson, age 39, of Carver, MN, died unexpectedly on Saturday, April 20, 2024 in Cancun, Mexico by accidental drowning while on a work trip.

 

Memorial Service will be held on Friday, May 3, 11:00 AM at Westwood Community Church, 3121 Westwood Drive, Excelsior, MN. The family will receive friends 10 – 11 AM at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.

 

Brett was born December 6, 1984 in Minneapolis, MN, the first of two children to Bruce and Maureen “Mo” Johnson. He graduated from Lakeville High School and attended the University of North Dakota where he received a degree in Commercial Aviation. He was a pilot for Endeavor Air for 15 years and Delta Airlines for two years. On December 27, 2008 he married Cassandra “Cassie” Erickson at Calvary Lutheran Church in Alexandria, MN. They had four children.

 

Growing up Brett was involved in Boy Scouts and was proud to have achieved Eagle Scout Rank.  His zest for participation in activities and discovering his passions continued with his time spent in the Civil Air Patrol.  Not one to shy away from competition, Brett also participated in wrestling from the time he was a little boy all the way through his senior year of high school, earning a varsity letter 5 times.

 

Brett had many interest-driven accomplishments in his life but perhaps what truly captured his heart was the joy he found in his family.  Brett shared a love story with his beloved wife Cassie.  They met while attending the University of North Dakota and working as resident advisors.   They loved laughing with each other and bonded over quoting lines from their favorite TV show “Friends”. One might even say Brett and Cassie were each other’s “lobsters”.  Together they raised four beautiful children.  Brett approached fatherhood as an adventure, and he guided his children through life’s journey with love, wisdom and unwavering support.   Along with the adventure of fatherhood, Brett loved going on adventures with Cassie and the kids.  They worked deliberately to instill a love of traveling and foster an eagerness to explore the world in their children.  This was accomplished through the many family vacations they took together.   The six of them so enjoyed their time together.  It didn’t have to be big events either.  Whether it was playing board games during family game night, a backyard baseball game, bike rides, trips to Valleyfair, family Halloween costumes, or movie nights, with his family was exactly where he wanted to be.   Truly, Brett was the epitome of a devoted family man.  He felt immense pride watching his kids participate in all their sports and activities.  To know Brett was to also know his family that he loved so dearly as he was delighted in talking about them with others.

 

The joy he found in his family was inclusive of his extended family.  His cousins were more like brothers and sisters to him, and he looked forward to their family gatherings knowing he would get to spend time with them.  Being together is what they valued as a family.  This was evident as Brett would go out of his way to visit relatives if he happened to be in the area.  He never missed an opportunity to bring happiness to those around him.

 

Outside of family life, Brett had several other hobbies and interests.  Most of these included cheering on the Minnesota Twins and the Vikings and UND Hockey.  He also particularly loved participating in fantasy teams with his friends and doing jigsaw puzzles. 

 

Brett is survived by his loving wife, Cassie (Erickson) Johnson; children, Oliver, Henry, Margaret and Victoria Johnson; parents, Bruce and Maureen “Mo” Johnson of Lakeville; sister, Major Leeann (James) Whittson and their daughter, Bailey of Cameron, NC; parents-in-law, Scott and Darlene Erickson of Alexandria; brother-in-law, Tom (Alissa) Erickson and their children, Ahna and Jacob, of Alexandria; several aunts, uncles and cousins.

 

 

DL Capt. Kenneth Marshall Hayes

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

Navy veteran, DL Capt. Kenneth Marshall Hayes

October 21, 1947 ~ April 19, 2024

 

We note the passing of retired Delta Air Lines pilot Captain Kenneth Marshall Hayes, age 76.  Captain Hayes joined Delta Air Lines 4-25-1977.  He is survived by his wife Page, and by his daughters and their families.

 

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

https://www.northsidechapel.com/obituaries/Kenneth-Hayes-14/#!/TributeWall  or go to

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/kenneth-hayes-obituary?id=54956526 

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

4797 Township Farm Trl

Marietta, GA 30066-1738

 

Thank you,

~ Carol for the PCN

PCN memorial site

 

Kenneth Hayes Obituary

Northside Chapel Funeral Directors and Crematory

 

Kenneth Marshall Hayes, of Marietta, GA passed into the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, April 19, 2024, at age 76.

He was beloved by many, most of all his wife of 51 years, Page, and his two daughters, Samantha and Ashley, and their families.

Ken was an exceptional person and gifted in many ways. He graduated from Lehigh University (and was quick to say it was by skin of his teeth) and excelled in the Navy as an A-4 attack pilot during the height of the Vietnam War. He loved his country and delighted in big fireworks displays- especially those he set off in the cul-de-sac with his grandchildren.

He had a handsome, memorable presence and a deep, bass voice that resonated with command and compassion. He could tell a great tale- raising a toast on special occasions and blessing the meal during gatherings both large and small. It's his voice we will miss the most- hearing him sing, teach, and laugh.

As a commercial pilot, Ken was known for his public flight announcements, welcoming his passengers on approach into Atlanta with a history lesson of the city. Like the old Delta Airlines slogan, Ken loved to fly- and it showed. But much more than his job he loved all the people God placed into his care: family, neighbors, friends, and the many generations who came through his Sunday school classes and Bible studies, including the Monday morning East Cobb Men's Fellowship and the JOY Bible Study Class at Roswell Presbyterian Church. With us he shared openly his struggles and his triumphs- always assuring us that God is working all of it for good (Romans 8:28).

No one rocked his world more than Page, whom he met one summer while lifeguarding at the Warminster Swim Club. They grew up together and fell in love before the challenges of their time changed the course of so many lives. Page described him as right out of central casting and he was devoted to her, loving and serving her well.

Together, they grew in faith, especially in the final years of Ken's life. Ken said he preferred military combat to the suffering brought on by cancer and renal failure, but in love he continued to protect, trust, hope and persevere to the end (1 Corinthians 13:7). He was supported and uplifted by Page's unwavering care and the love and assistance of neighbors and friends, including the Monday night Paradise Grill crew.

As a family, we cherish the memories of earlier years. Ken was an expert planner of great adventures as we traveled all over the country. Our favorite times, though, were spent on Georgia and South Carolina lakes where we escaped the distractions of everyday life. For Ken and Page, retirement years at Lake Keowee were heaven on earth- aboard a 12 ft sailboat with their beloved Border Collie, Scout (adopted from Sam and Ashley), at the helm.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Evelyn Hayes. He is survived by his wife, Page Thomas Hayes and their two daughters, Samantha Fisher of Nashville, TN (husband Daniel Fisher and daughters Penelope and Tess) and Ashley Callahan of Griffin, GA (husband Eric Callahan and children Hayes and Airlie). He is also survived by his older brother, Charles Hayes (wife Carolyn), big sister, Carol Carrino, and beloved extended family.

Anticipating his death, he prepared these words for us:

"I am now in the place my heart has secretly longed for, the place where Christ is and reigns, worship is glorious, and the injustices and pain of the corrupted creation are no more."

Ken will be laid to rest with military honors at Georgia National Cemetery.

A memorial service will be held Friday, May 10 at 11:00 a.m. at Roswell Presbyterian Church: 755 Mimosa Blvd.

A reception will follow at the Brookwood Grill: 880 Holcomb Bridge Rd. Roswell, GA.

We look forward to seeing you and hearing your stories.

Ken supported and volunteered with countless charities throughout his life, including

the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. In lieu of flowers, please consider supporting FCA under Ken's friends Hal Young and/or Tom Joyner.

Reba Livingston, wife of DL Capt. Max Livingston

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

Reba Oliger Livingston, wife of DL Capt. Max Livingston

November 11, 1935 ~ April 20, 2024

 

Noting the passing of Rebecca “Reba” Oliger Livingston, wife of Delta Golden Wings member retired Delta Air Lines pilot Captain Max Miller Livingston.  Max joined Delta Air Lines 9-10-1956.  Reba is survived by her husband Max, and by her daughters and their families.

To the best of my knowledge, condolences may be sent to the family at this address:

74 AVIGNON CT

LITTLE ROCK AR 72223-9104

 

Arrangements have been entrusted to Ralph Robinson & Son Funeral Directors of Pine Bluff, Arkansas. 

https://www.robinsonfuller.com/obituaries/Reba-Oliger-Livingston?obId=31267127 

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/reba-livingston-obituary?id=54940029

 

Reba Livingston Obituary

Reba Oliger Livingston of Little Rock, Arkansas died peacefully on Saturday, April 20, 2024. She was surrounded by her loving husband, Max Miller Livingston, and family members.

Reba was born in Sherrill, Arkansas, on November 11, 1935. She was a Central Air Lines flight attendant for several years, before meeting her future husband, Max, a Naval Aviator. They were married on October 19, 1956, in Atlanta, Georgia, and remained married for 67 years. They subsequently lived in several cities where Max was based as a Delta Air Lines pilot. They later settled in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, where Reba taught high school history and Western Civilization. And they enjoyed traveling the world over, from the pyramids of Egypt to the Great Wall of China.

Reba is preceded in death by her parents, Emmett "Buck" Oliger and Wilma Bryant Oliger; and two younger brothers, Harold Oliger (and his wife Emily) and Carroll Oliger (and his wife Helen).

She leaves behind her beloved husband, Max; two daughters, Layne Livingston Anderson, and Sarah Miller Livingston; one grandson, Naval Petty Officer First Class Livingston Lee Anderson (and his wife, Kayla Maria Anderson) and their son, (Reba's great grandson) Leo Max Anderson; and numerous beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, and their respective families.

Reba and Max were long-time, devoted members of St. James United Methodist Church in Little Rock. Included among their dear friends were their New Challenges Sunday School Class and numerous church members.

A celebration of Reba's life will be held on Friday April 26 at St. James United Methodist Church Little Rock, AR at 1:00PM. The graveside service will be at 4:30PM at Memorial Park Cemetery in White Hall, AR. Arrangements are by Ralph Robinson & Son Funeral Directors of Pine Bluff.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee or a personal favorite charity.

"He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." Revelations 21:4 NIV

For online condolences, please visit RobinsonFuller.com

DL Capt. Paul R. Lalumiere Jr.

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

Military veteran, DL Capt. Paul R. Lalumiere Jr.

January 22, 1936  ~  April 18, 2024

 

Sharing this news as was just received from friends and family…..the passing of Delta Golden Wings member retired Delta Air Lines pilot Captain Paul Russell Lalumiere Jr., age 88.  Paul joined Delta Air Lines 12-04-1967 and was Atlanta based.  He is survived by his wife Kristen, and by their children and their grand- and greatgrandchildren. 

For those who may wish to send a personal note, condolences may be sent to the family at

111 Tweed Place

Chapel Hill,  NC  27517

 

Obituary information and service arrangements can be found on the funeral home’s website : 

 https://www.watersandhibbert.com/obituaries/Paul-R-Lalumiere?obId=31266705 

 

Thank you,

~ Carol for the PCN

PCN memorial site   

 

Obituary for Capt. Paul R. Lalumiere

Paul R. Lalumiere, Jr. passed away April 18, 2024 at his home in Chapel Hill, North Carolina at the age of 88 after a long illness.

 

Paul was born on January 22, 1936 in Portland, Maine. His family owned the Elm Ice and Oil Company. Paul was a pilot most of his life, first for the Army, Major USA Retired, awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and Bronze Star for service in Vietnam, and Master Army Aviator; then with Delta Airlines for 29 years; and lastly as Chief Pilot for the Pensacola firm of Levin Papantonio Rafferty.

 

He is survived by his wife, Kristen Lalumiere, and her children, Edward and Thomas Clark; his children, Scott Lalumiere, Todd Lalumiere, Beth Ann Lalumiere; his grandchildren, Jill Moses, Jessica Lalumiere, Matthew Lalumiere, Margo Smith, Charlie Lalumiere; his great-grandchildren, Emmett and Addison Moses; his sister, Anne Woods; and his dear cousin, Marilyn Lalumiere.

 

Services will be held May 1st, 2024 at the Waters & Hibbert Funeral Home, 124 West Gregory Street, Pensacola, FL 32502. Visitation hours will be 9:00 to 10:00. The service will be from 10:00 to 10:30. Military Funeral Honors and the committal service will follow at 11:00 at the Barrancas National Cemetery at 1 Cemetery Road, Pensacola, FL 32508.

 

Paul lived his life fast and well and leaves behind a legacy of family and friends, dogs, boats, and plants. He loved travel and knew the world, yet spoke and joked and related to everyone he met.

 

In Paul’s memory, instead of donations to an organization, he would ask you to look around in your own lives and help lift up others.

NAL/PAA/DL Capt. John Stephen Woelfel

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

USAF veteran, NAL/PAA/DL Capt. John Stephen Woelfel

JULY 11, 1940 – APRIL 6, 2024

 

Sharing this news as was received from the National Airlines alumni site, the passing of retired National/Pan Am/Delta Air Lines pilot Captain John Stephen Woelfel, age 83.  John began his commercial flying career 04-08-1968.  He is survived by his wife Mary Ellen, and by his children and their families.

Obituary information can be viewed online at

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/northport-al/john-woelfel-11758849

PCN memorial site 

Obituary : John Stephen Woelfel

John Stephen Woelfel (formerly of Ocala, Florida) passed away peacefully on April 6, 2024 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, surrounded by loving family. He was 83.

John was predeceased by his parents John and Irma Woelfel.

He was a devoted husband to Mary Ellen Woelfel, his beloved wife, with whom he shared countless cherished moments and built a life filled with love, travel, horses and adventure.

 

In addition to his wife, John is survived by his brother Robert (Sandy) Woelfel of Arlington, Texas. His children: Laura (Casey) Lineberry of Crane Hill, AL; John (Jennifer) Woelfel and Debbie (Kenneth) Crownover of Tuscaloosa, AL.

 

John was blessed with five grandchildren, Drew Madison, Jennifer Salinas (Stephen), Jessica Phifer (Neal), Cade Woelfel, and Cara Panno (Austin) five great grandchildren, a niece and a nephew, two great nieces and a great nephew -- all who loved the man they called “Pappy.” His legacy lives on through his remaining family and the values he instilled in them.

 

John’s interest in flying started when he was 11 years old; he met a Trans World Airlines pilot in the neighborhood. Because of that chance meeting, his career objective never wavered from being a commercial airline pilot. His selection of Hobart College was due in part to their having an Air Force ROTC offering which he completed. Upon graduation, John became a U.S. Air Force officer and was assigned to Moody Air Force Base in Valdosta, Georgia where he learned to fly military jets. After completion of flight training, he was assigned to a Strategic Air Command base (K.I. Sawyer AFB) in Gwinn, Michigan to fly KC-135 refueling planes. As aircraft commander, his squadron went to Southeast Asia where he refueled B-52 bombers over Vietnam in addition to other “thirsty” military jets.

 

After 5 ½ years of Air Force service, John joined National Airlines in Florida to begin his successful commercial airline pilot career. From there he went on to fly for Pan Am and Delta Airlines as Captain. His love for flying was only rivaled by his passion for sailing. A seasoned sailor, John regularly sailed the Florida Keys, but his favorite trips were the night crossings to the Bahamas.

 

He will be remembered for his sense of humor and his genuine care for others. He touched the lives of many through his kindness, generosity and love of life, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

 

To honor John’s wishes, there will be no funeral service. We invite you to privately celebrate John’s memory in your own ways. We know that he will be with us all in spirit. John will be dearly missed but never forgotten. May he rest in eternal peace, knowing he was deeply loved and admired by all who knew him.

 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Wounded Warriors in John's memory.

 

Sunset Brown-Service Funeral Home, a Dignity Memorial Provider, is honored to serve the Woelfel family during their time of bereavement. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.SunsetBrown-Funeral.com

NWA Capt. David Gardner Hill

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

Navy veteran, NWA Capt. David Gardner Hill

January 5, 1937 - April 2, 2024

 

From the retired Northwest Airlines pilot group we learn of the passing of retired Northwest Airlines pilot Captain Dave Hill, age 87.  Dave joined Northwest 01-06-1969.  He is survived by his wife Taiko, and by his children and their families.

Obituary information and service arrangements can be viewed online at

https://www.hawaiianmemorialparkmortuary.com/obituaries/David-Hill-78/#!/Obituary

PCN memorial site

 

Obituary for David Gardner Hill

David Gardner Hill, 87, of Kaneohe, Hawaii, passed away peacefully in Honolulu. Born in Framingham, Massachusetts, David was a man of many passions and accomplishments.

 

A retired Navy veteran, David served his country with honor and distinction. His love for the skies didn’t stop there. After his service, he continued his career as a pilot for Northwest Airlines, mastering the art of flying, a skill he was immensely proud of.

 

David was a loving husband to Taiko Hill for 39 years. Their bond was one of mutual respect and deep affection, a testament to their enduring love.

 

A father to James (Andrea) Hill, Mark Hill, Sarie (Philip) Harris, Mari Hill, Amy (Nicholas) Olds, and a doting grandfather to four grandchildren, David’s family was his pride and joy. His love for them was evident in every interaction, every shared moment.

 

David was a man of intellect and curiosity. He loved puzzles and reading, always seeking to learn more about the world around him. His interests were vast and varied, from astronomy to architecture, reflecting his multifaceted personality.

 

Known for his kindness, humor, and intelligence, David was a beacon of light to those who knew him. His love for music filled their home with melodies, and his witty humor brought laughter and joy.

 

David was a “jack of all trades, master of one, flying”. His passion for flying was not just a career, but a calling. It was a part of who he was, a symbol of his limitless spirit and his constant pursuit of freedom.

 

David leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and learning. His memory will continue to inspire and guide us. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

 

His journey has been a flight well flown.

PAA/DL Capt. Robert Joseph Rigney Jr.

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

Navy veteran, PAA/DL Capt. Robert Joseph Rigney Jr.

October 17, 1933 ~ April 4, 2024

 

We note the passing of retired Pan Am/Delta pilot Captain Robert Joseph Rigney Jr, age 90.  Captain Rigney joined Pan American 01-04-1965 and retired with Delta Air Lines. 

Obituary information is available online at

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/legacyremembers/robert-rigney-obituary?id=54860014

PCN memorial site

 

Robert Rigney Obituary

Robert Joseph Rigney, Jr. died peacefully at age 90 on April 4, 2024 in Monterey, California. He died after a short illness, having lived with Alzheimer's for several years.

 

He was born October 17, 1933 to Helen Wall and Robert Joseph Rigney in Chicago. From that date on he held a few things dear: his Chicago roots, the Catholic faith, basketball, and friends and family.

 

He grew up in Chicago's Oak Park neighborhood, which he never let anyone forget, surrounded by four siblings and a large circle of Irish-American aunts, uncles and cousins.

 

Bob, or "Fish" as he was known to his school friends, graduated from his beloved Fenwick High School in 1951. As a sharp-elbowed point guard, he helped his basketball team win the Chicago City Championships in his senior year. In 1955, he earned a degree in philosophy from Loyola University in Chicago. In 1956, Bob was drafted into the military and became a naval aviator, mainly flying reconnaissance planes over the Pacific Ocean.

 

In 1965, Bob left the U.S. Navy and embarked on a nearly four-decade long career as a pilot for Pan American and Delta Airlines. During a flight to Guatemala, he fell for Pan Am crewmember, Hansi de Petra. The two married at the Carmel Mission Basilica in 1970.

 

Bob and Hansi had their first date on a layover in Honolulu at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel restaurant. For the next 55 years they shared a love for travel, music and even the same birthday. Together they had four children.

 

The flying life took Bob to many corners of the world, where he collected stories, mementos and life-long friends. He lived in Sausalito, Carmel, Hong Kong, Berlin, and Carmel again.

 

While living in Berlin, Bob "flew the corridors" that connected West Berlin and West Germany. He was an enthusiastic ring-leader among the close-knit Pan Am community. He often returned to Kitzbühel, Austria for skiing. On November 9th, 1989, he scaled the Berlin Wall to witness history being made.

 

In 1992, Bob and his family moved back to Carmel, where he's lived ever since. He never went long without a phone call to a friend from Chicago, the Navy, the airlines or anyone he just met.

 

Bob and Hansi kept traveling through the years. He kept up with Hansi's marathons by organizing their travel all over the globe and meeting regularly with his group of former Pan Am pilots in Berlin who liked to call themselves "the Lost Battalion."

 

He could recite countless poems, limericks, puns, jokes and riddles – many of which were collected in small pocket notebooks.

 

In Bob's later years, he volunteered as a docent at the Carmel Mission Basilica. He was also a familiar face at the Monterey Sports Center, where he often spent more time gabbing than exercising.

 

Bob is survived by his sons Robert Finn Rigney of Berlin; Peter Rigney of Berlin, John Rigney of El Cerrito, and daughter Kathleen Dietrich of Davis. He has five grandchildren.

 

The family wishes to thank Rosa Taufahema for her steadfast caretaking during Bob's final two years.

 

Bob lived for and through his friends. One life-long friend, Dr. Philip Held, has done remarkable work to study and address the issue of kidney transplant wait-times. Those who wish to honor Bob can make a donation to the National Kidney Donation Organization at https://www.nkdo.org/greatestgift/. Or in keeping with his style, call an old friend to reminisce about the good times.

 

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

 

PAA/DL Capt. Peter Bennett

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

LTCOL USAFR ret., PAA/DL Capt. Peter Bennett

March 19, 1939 ~ April 6, 2024

 

We note the passing of retired Pan Am/Delta pilot Captain Peter Bennett, age 85.  Peter joined Pan American 06-20-1966 and retired with Delta Air Lines.  He is survived by his wife Christiane, and by his children and their families.

Obituary information can be viewed online at

https://www.tcpalm.com/obituaries/psar0781731  also at

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/eastbayri/name/peter-bennett-obituary?id=54842202

PCN memorial site

 

Peter Bennett Obituary

Peter Bennett, resident of Fort Pierce, FL, passed away on April 6th at age 85. Peter was born in Framingham, MA, on March 19th, 1939. After graduating high school in Barrington, RI, in June 1957, he enlisted in the United States Air Force where he served as a Russian language specialist while based in Osan, Korea. He was accepted into the Aviation Cadet program and was a distinguished graduate of Class 61-B, receiving his USAF pilot wings and commissioned a second lieutenant. In 1966, Peter was hired by Pan American World Airways and flew for them for the next 25 years, retiring early as a Captain on the 727 in 1991 to join Delta Airlines, where he retired as a Captain in 2001. Peter completed his military service with 24 years including active and reserve duty and retired as a Lt. Colonel.

 

Peter is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Christiane. He is also survived by his 5 children with their families: Susan Bennett and Hope Bennett Brown; Peter Allen, Stephanie, Hailey and Hannah Bennett; Steven, Tonya, Jona, Kai and Eva Bennett; Nicki, Thomas, Emilia and Isabel Bennett Conan; and Tini, Luke, Logan, Carlos, Teo and Maya Bennett; by his siblings Becky Gunn and Deborah Buckley; his siblings' families; and many other family and friends in the United States, Germany and the rest of the world. He was predeceased by his parents, Hope and Howard Bennett, and his siblings Betsy and Jamie Bennett.

 

Family was the most important thing in Peter's life, and we are grateful that he was surrounded by his wife and all of his children in his final days on earth. A private family memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions to the American Cancer Society are welcomed.

 

DL Capt. Robert H. (Bob) Gould

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

DL Capt. Robert H. (Bob) Gould

October 27, 1943 - April 05, 2024

 

From friends and colleagues we have learned of the passing of Delta Golden Wings member retired Delta pilot Captain Robert “Bob” Harold Gould, age 80.  Bob joined Delta Air Lines 08-08-1966 and was Dallas based for the majority of his career, then 031/ATL prior to retiring with Delta.  Bob is survived by his wife Carolyn, and by his children and his grandchildren.

Obituary and service information may be found online at

https://www.wileyfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Captain-Robert-H-Bob-Gould?obId=31148131 

Condolences may be sent to the family at

7310 RAVENSWOOD RD

GRANBURY TX 76049-4739

Thank you,

~ Carol for the PCN

PCN memorial site

Obituary  :  Captain Robert H. (Bob) Gould, 80, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on

Friday, April 5, 2024, in Fort Worth, Texas. He was born October 27, 1943, in Jackson,

Mississippi to James B. and Wilma Gould.

Bob began his career as a pilot for Delta Air Lines at the early age of 23 and retired in 2003. Bob

was an avid fisherman and enjoyed fishing with family and friends at the Texas coast. The coast

was his second home, and he spent many weekends with his wife and family on his boat. Bob

absolutely loved being a Papaw to his grandchildren. Family meant so much to him.

He was preceded in death by his beloved dog, Charly; his parents; a brother, Jerry Gould; and two

sisters, Glenda, and Amelia.

Bob is survived by his wife of (59) years, Carolyn H. Gould; son, Harry Gould and wife Joyce,

daughter Teresa Ciha and husband Stu, son, Scott Gould, and wife Beverly; four grandchildren,

Shannon Gould, Cameron Gould, Grayson Gould, and Jackson Ciha; numerous nieces and

nephews.

Graveside services will be held at 11am, Saturday, April 13, 2024, at Acton Cemetery in

Granbury under the direction of Wiley Funeral Home in Granbury.

 

ACTON CEMETERY 3629 Fall Creek Hwy., Granbury, TX 76048

GRAVESIDE :  April 13 at 11:00 AM      Location: Acton Cemetery

PAA/DL Capt. Kenneth Slobody

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

Military veteran, PAA/DL Capt. Kenneth Slobody

March 3, 1939 - February 29, 2024

 

We note the passing of retired Pan Am/Delta Air Lines pilot Captain Kenneth Slobody, age 84.  Kenneth joined Pan American 02-08-1965 and retired with Delta Air Lines based NYC/031.  He is survived by his wife Davida, and by their children Tara Wyatt and Kirk (Janine Tiede) Slobody.

PCN memorial site

Kenneth Slobody, 84, of Alachua FL, died at University of Florida, The Villages hospital. Ken was born in the Bronx NY. He married the love of his life, Davida, and together they had two children, Tara and Kirk, and loving daughter-in-law, Janine, all of whom he was very proud. Ken served in the US Navy with his last duty assignment in the Air Anti-Submarine Squadron VS Twenty-eight aboard the carrier USS WASP stationed at Quonset Point, RI. He worked most of his life as a pilot for Pan American Airlines where he flew co-pilot on the 707, 737 Captain in West Berlin and 747 Captain based in New York. He ended his career flying as Captain on the 747 for Delta Airlines. He loved training dogs and riding horses with Davida on their retirement “dream farm” in Alachua, FL.

 

https://www.williamsthomasfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Kenneth-Slobody/#!/Obituary

Obituary for Kenneth Slobody

Kenneth Slobody, 84, of Alachua, FL, died unexpectedly at UF Health, the Villages hospital. Kenneth was born March 3, 1939, in Bronx, NY to Herman L. and Tessie Sugarman Slobody. Kenneth married the love of his life, Davida, and together they had two children, Tara, and Kirk, of whom he was very proud. Kenneth served in the United States Navy with his last duty assignment and major command in the Air Anti-Submarine Squadron Twenty-eight. He worked most of his life as a pilot in the airline industry.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his wife, Davida, and children, Tara Wyatt and Kirk (Janine Tiede) Slobody.

A Graveside service with military honors will be held Wednesday, March 6, 2024, at 1:00PM at Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell, FL with Rabbi Berl Goldman officiating.

SO/RC/NWA Capt. Henry Adams Kirtland Jr.

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

SO/RC/NWA (DL) pilot Henry Adams Kirtland Jr.

July 16, 1928 ~ April 2, 2024

 Notice of passing…..obituary below notes retired Delta Air Lines pilot, but I believe this to be Capt. Henry Adams “Buddy” Kirtland Jr. who first joined Southern Airways circa 1955 and would have made the mergers with Republic and Northwest.  He is survived by his wife Patricia.

If you have more information, please do let us know.

Thank you,

~ Carol for the PCN

PCN memorial site

Online link to obituary : https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/jonesborosun/name/henry-kirtland-obituary?id=54788373

 

Henry Kirtland Obituary

JONESBORO AR - Henry Adams Kirtland Jr., of Jonesboro, a man of adventure and dedication, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 2, 2024, at the age of 95. Born on July 16, 1928, in Nashville, Tenn., Henry was the son of the late Henry Kirtland Sr. and Elizabeth Kirtland.

 Henry's life was characterized by a love for aviation and an adventurous spirit. He dedicated 56 years of his life to Delta Airlines as a pilot, showcasing his skill and passion for flying. Beyond his career, Henry pursued numerous aerial pursuits, including skydiving, flight instruction and crop dusting.

 A regular attendee of the Ridgeview Mennonite Church in Harrisburg, Henry found solace and community in his faith.

 Henry was preceded in death by his parents, as well as one brother and two sisters.

 He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Patricia Kirtland, who stood by his side through a lifetime of adventures and joys. 

Beyond his professional achievements and dedication to his faith, Henry cherished simple pleasures, such as driving with his wife and admiring the countryside. Together, they shared countless moments of serenity and beauty, embracing the wonder of the world around them. 

A memorial service to celebrate Henry's life will be held at 5 p.m. Saturday at Ridgeview Mennonite Church. 

Online registry: www. emersonfuneralhome.com