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___ PCN FLIGHT WEST is sponsored by the Pilot Communication Network and is a service of the PCN provided for the Delta Pilot Retired family of pilot groups. Flight West was started and is maintained to accomplish two main goals. After we become aware of a colleague who has Flown West, 1. We aim to produce a “timely” notice sent to our community that allows for support and interaction from our group toward the grieving family of our friend and colleague. 2. Then, we aim to “archive” that notice on our PCN Flight West Blogspot as a lasting accessible place of Dignity and Honor of our colleague for family legacy and posterity. Contributor contact info is generally removed before posting (unless requested otherwise).

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Showing posts with label NWA or NWA/DL. Show all posts
Showing posts with label NWA or NWA/DL. Show all posts

Thursday, September 17, 2026

NWA Geri Bedrossian, wife of Capt Harry Bedrossian

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

NWA Geri Bedrossian

August 2, 1932 - August 6, 2026

 Gig Harbor, Washington



 

Geri is a former NWA F/A and the wife of retired NWA Capt. Harry Bedrossian.

 https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/tribnet/name/geraldine-bedrossian-obituary?id=62450568

Geraldine Bedrossian Obituary

Geri - In Loving Memory

With great sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Geri, who passed away peacefully on August 6, 2026, after suffering a stroke.

Geri was a devoted wife to her husband, Harry, and a loving mother to their three children, Mary, Anne, and Harry III. She was the proud grandmother of Jack, Kate, Alexandria, Taylor, Donovon II, and Jaclynne, and great-grandmother to Liam. Her family was the greatest joy of her life, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

Geri was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Joseph Wierske and Marie Schmidt. She grew up in Milwaukee, attended St. Josaphat Catholic School and Bay View High School, and went on to attend the University of Wisconsin, where she majored in child development.

After college, Geri became a Stewardess (flight attendant) for Northwest Airlines, a job she thoroughly enjoyed for three years. In those days, the rules for stewardesses required them to remain single and retire from flying at age 32. She was recognized by LIFE magazine in 1958 as being one of the most glamorous stewardesses of that time. But Geri's plans changed when, on August 25, 1961, she and Harry eloped in San Francisco, California. Because of Northwest Airlines' regulations, Geri had to resign from the airline. Her final flight, however, was one she would never forget. Before her last flight to Fort Lauderdale, the Captain asked her, "How can we make your last flight memorable?" The flight ended up crashing upon landing. Fortunately, Geri was safe, and afterward she jokingly told the Captain, "You didn't have to go to that extreme to make my last flight that memorable." That story, and Geri's wonderful sense of humor, remained a favorite family memory.

Not long after Geri left Northwest Airlines, Harry was transferred from Seattle to Minneapolis, Minnesota. Shortly after the birth of their first child, Mary, they returned to Seattle, where they built their family home on Mercer Island. There, their family grew with the arrival of Anne and Harry III.

Once her children were in school, Geri devoted her time to helping others. She volunteered at Lakeridge Elementary School as a teacher's aide, working with children who had reading disabilities. She also loved traveling with her family, enjoying both domestic and international vacations made possible by the benefits of Harry's airline employment.

After 26 wonderful years on Mercer Island, filled with family, friends, and countless activities on Lake Washington, their children had graduated from college and begun their careers. In 1992, Geri and Harry moved to Gig Harbor and built a home in Canterwood, a golf community where they began a new chapter of their lives together.

In their 60s, Geri and Harry took up golf, and Geri quickly embraced the game and the friendships that came with it. She became an active member of the community and participated in numerous activities, including chairing a committee for the local Gig Harbor charity F.I.S.H.

Geri was a kind, loving, and caring woman who adored her family. She was happiest surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandson, and her love and warmth touched everyone who knew her. After 65 years together, Harry says simply, "I will miss her every day."

At Geri's request, there will be a private burial at Tahoma National Cemetery. The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the doctors and nurses at St. Anthony's Hospital and to the nurses and staff at Cottesmore for the loving care they provided to Geri.

Geri will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished by her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

NWA Capt. Wesley Vermillion

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

Military veteran, NWA Capt. Wesley “Wes” Vermillion

July 5, 1938 – August 28, 2026

 

From family we have learned of the passing of retired Northwest Airlines pilot Captain Wesley Dean Vermillion. Wes joined Northwest Airlines 04-11-1966.  He is survived by his wife Colleen along with many dear friends and colleagues. 

Colleen Vermillion <3sailboat8@gmail.com>: Sep 16 06:16PM -0400

On the night of August 28th Wes Vermillion left us and went to be among the
stars.
Wes followed his Bliss. Long ago he found it, grabbed it, held on and lived
his best life each day.
Please go outside, find the brightest star in the night sky and remember
your favorite Wes Vermillion story. He will hear you and enjoy the memory
too!
Fair Winds,
Colleen Vermillion

https://neptunesociety.com/obituaries/palm-harbor-fl/wesley-vermillion-13021539

Obituary  :  Wesley D Vermillion

July 5, 1938 – August 28, 2026

Wesley D Vermillion passed on August 28, 2026, at the age of 88, having been born on July 5, 1938, in Portland, Oregon, and residing in Safety Harbor, Florida.

Tuesday, September 15, 2026

NWA Capt. David Berg

~ IN MEMORY ~

NWA Capt. David Berg

June 29, 1941 ~ September 3, 2026




 

 

David Ernie Berg died September 3, 2026 as a dazzling thunderstorm rolled through……………….

 David joined Northwest Airlines 02-28-1966 and retired with Northwest in 2001.  David is survived by his wife Arlene, and by his children and their families.

A memorial service and celebration of David’s life is planned for October 4th in Battle Lake, Minnesota…...please see obituary below for details.

https://www.glendenilson.com/obituaries/david-berg 

Obituary :

David Ernie Berg died Sept. 3, 2026 as a dazzling thunderstorm rolled through.

 David was born on June 29, 1941 to Ernest and Lorayne (nee Morstad) Berg in Montevideo, MN. On Labor Day 1959, after spending the day at the Minnesota State Fair, David was seriously injured in a car accident which left him in a full-body cast. He enrolled at the University of Minnesota in March 1960, still on crutches and navigating a brutally long and harsh winter. His arrival at the U would change the course of his life. 

 In spring 1962, David met Arlene Martin outside the phone booth in Pioneer Hall. Continuing his passion for aviation, which began as a teenager, he worked as an instructor at the U’s flight school at the Anoka County-Blaine airport. Convinced he couldn’t be an airline pilot because of less-than-perfect vision, he pursued a degree in pharmacy graduating in 1965. 

 David and Arlene were married in August 1965 at Trefoldighed Lutheran Church in Battle Lake, MN. While working as a pharmacist, he learned Northwest Orient Airlines was hiring people like him – low hours but the right aptitude to be an airline pilot. He was hired in February 1966. His 35-year career took him to some of his favorite places like Amsterdam, Honolulu, San Francisco and really anywhere with a bookstore and good Chinese food. He retired in 2001 as a DC-10 captain. 

 After retiring, he enjoyed sawing boards, building a treehouse, and creating a Japanese garden. What he most loved was spending as much time as possible with Arlene staring at the lake, frequently remarking on how fortunate he was to be right there.

 David and Arlene had three children, Marc, Jane, and Jill. Even though he was gone frequently for his job, he was very present for his kids and expected them to always be learning. He made them wooden animals, blocks, and boomerangs, and later cedar-strip canoes. He offered sage advice like “A point in every direction is the same as no point at all.” 

 He is preceded in death by his beloved in-laws Willard and Bernice Martin.

 He is survived by his wife Arlene whom he credited with running the operation and raising good kids. He is also survived by his children Marc (Christa) Berg, Jane (Doug) Pennington, and Jill (Joe) Driscoll. His eight grandchildren Daria, Carter, and Andrew Berg; Etta and Ivy Pennington; and Liam, Claire, and Emmett Driscoll will miss Grandpa Wookie deeply. 

 Fly West, Captain Berg! 

 Memorial service October 4, 2026 at Glendalough State Park. Visitation in the historic lodge at 1:00 p.m. Service in the dining hall at 2:00 p.m. 

 Memorials preferred to donor’s choice, Battle Lake Area Fire and Rescue Association, Battle Lake Area Community Fund or Park Partners at Glendalough State Park.

 https://www.glendenilson.com/obituaries/david-berg

 

Monday, September 14, 2026

RC/NWA Capt. Van F. Heywood

 

Belated, but not forgotten …………..

~ IN MEMORY ~

USAF veteran, RC/NWA Capt. Van Farrell Heywood

December 3, 1936 ~ November 8, 2021

 


Van began his commercial flying with Hughs AirWest ( 1-29-1968 )  based Phoenix, and retired with Northwest Airlines in 1996.  Van is survived by his wife Corinne, and by his children and their families.  Corinne currently resides in Scottsdale AZ.

 



https://supersabresociety.org/biography/heywood-van-f/

Van Farrell Heywood

Preferred Name: Van

Nickname/Call Sign: Spruce 2

Highest Military Grade: 0-4 – Major

 

“”A hero in our midst” Arcadia News, by Mallory Gleich, Nov 1, 2021

 

A perfect day for Van Heywood would be to spend time hiking and hanging out with friends and family. But in 1958, when he joined the United States Air Force, his days were, well, a little different.

 

Heywood was born in an old farmhouse on Extension and Broadway Road in Mesa in 1936. He’s lived in the Grand Canyon state since, attending area schools and eventually getting a college degree in education and music from ASU.

 

While there, Heywood and some friends decided to join the Reserved Officer Training Corps (ROTC). After graduation, he was tested and chosen for flight school, and was awarded an officer’s rank right out of college.

 

“I’m thankful to be alive,” Heywood said. “I did 100 missions over North Vietnam (the bad area) and 24 missions over Laos (the other bad area). Only the 100 missions over North Vietnam counted for your tour, and you didn’t get to go home until you had 100 missions over North Vietnam.”

 

While in the military, Heywood was a jet pilot. He flew an F-105 Thunderchief and a F-100 Super Saber, the first fighter bomber series, allowing the soldiers to play different combat roles.

 

“In addition, I was a Wild Weasel. The Wild Weasels were a top-secret program designed to take out Surface to Air Missile sites (SAM sites) that would shoot our airplanes down. We were the first Wild Weasel flight to take out a SAM site successfully,” he said.

 

Heywood shared one particular mission that he will never forget: His first SAM strike, right before Christmas in 1965.

 

“To start, I flew about 12 Iron Hand (joint USAF-USN) missions. The technique we used was what we described as trolling (like the technique used in fishing). We acted as the bait, and the SAM site was the fish,” he said.

 

“In the designated area, we would fly in a loose and flexible formation. Many times a missile site would come up and start tracking us. We would start a turn toward the site to try and set up an attack. It seemed that the missile guys got the word about what we were up to, and when we turned toward the site, it would go off the air. We didn’t seem to be getting anywhere with the tactics we were using.”

 

“I could hear another flight in our area trying to join up after attacking a target. One of their flight had been hit, and they were trying to get him out of the target area along the Red River.”

 

“We were coming into the flat, open area bordering the Red River in SE Asia. We were fairly low, and the Weasel was making as many knots as I think he could get out of the F-100F. In not more than what seemed like two minutes, the Weasel called the SAM site swinging off our left. We all started a turn, and a voice transmitted excitedly, ‘I’ve got him.’

 

“As we continued turning, I saw two long, slender tubes on what appeared to be a transporter. They were pointed up at about 60 degrees and stuck out just barely beyond the tree line. ‘Missiles,’ I said to myself.”

 

“We had four LAU-3 rocket pods with 19 rockets in each pod, and I had armed up all four pods to fire at once. If I got only one shot, I wanted it to be a memorable one. Even though we were getting flak from the river, I concentrated on my run and wasn’t about to let the flak deter me. I steadied just long enough to get my sight picture for the rockets and fired. What an impressive sight! Seventy-six rockets were spewing out in front of my aircraft, and I was sure that the guys on the ground were impressed.”

 

“I elevated the gunsight piper on my second attack, held the trigger down, and gently walked the rudders until the gun fired out. The target was by now a roiling, boiling mass of dust and debris in which nothing could be seen except a few of the taller trees. I felt a little disturbed when the Weasel started calling out, ‘Everybody get down; he’s on us.’ After a couple of calls like that, I started thinking, ‘How is that possible?’ It wasn’t until later I found out another SAM site over by the river came up and was trying to get a shot at us.”

 

Heywood ended his tour as a Major in 1987 after earning various medals of honor, including the Distinguished Flying Cross, which is awarded to those who committed acts of heroism or achievement while participating in aerial flight.

 

Times were different then: even with the honor and bravery he showed, when Heywood returned from Vietnam, he had to make sure to not wear his uniform off base or he would get heckled by civilians.

 

Eventually, Heywood returned home to his wife, Corinne. The pair met through Corinne’s brother and although they had connected early on, it wasn’t until she was a freshman and he was a senior at ASU that the two started dating. After college, the pair were married and then transferred to different bases around the U.S.

 

Their love stood the test of time, as the pair have been together for 63 years – 40 of those in Arcadia. They have 12 children, 15 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

 

Heywood retired from the military after 29 years and 124 missions. Afterward, he received devastating news: because of the chemical Agent Orange that was sprayed over the foliage where he and his squadron were stationed, Heywood developed an aggressive form of cancer.

                                                                     

At publication time, he was being hospitalized and waiting to start chemo treatments, but told doctors that he has no regrets, has done everything he wanted to do in life, and isn’t afraid to die.

 

“I have stared down the barrels of weapons trying to kill me. I can face this!” Heywood said. “

 

https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/234158366/van-farrell-heywood

Van Farrell Heywood

Birth  :  3 Dec 1936

Mesa, Maricopa County, Arizona

Death  :  8 Nov 2021 (aged 84)

Scottsdale, Maricopa County, Arizona

Burial  :  National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona

Phoenix, Maricopa County, Arizona

Monday, August 31, 2026

NWA/DL Capt. Bill Bailey

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

EAL/NWA/DAL

Captain William C. Bailey, USNR (Ret.)

March 10, 1950 — August 27, 2026



 

Captain Bailey began his time with Northwest Airlines 07-07-1989 and retired with Delta Air Lines.  He is survived by his wife Katherine, and by his children and their families.

Services will be held this Friday, September 4th in Florida…please see obituary below or visit the funeral home website for details.

 

PCN memorial site

https://www.degusipefuneralhome.com/obituaries?query=bailey 

Captain William C. Bailey, USNR (Ret.) passed away peacefully at his home in Longwood, Florida on August 27, 2026. A native of Oak Park, Illinois, Bill attended Fenwick High School, where he was a standout athlete in basketball and golf. He graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1972, proudly serving as captain of the Naval Academy Golf Team.

After graduation, Bill served aboard the USS Kretchmer before earning his naval aviator wings in 1974. Flying the A-7E Corsair, he completed deployments to the North Atlantic and Mediterranean with the "Marauders" of VA-82 aboard the USS Nimitz. The “Marauders” earned the Battle "E" and the Admiral Wade McClusky Award. He later served as an instructor pilot with VA-174, transitioned to the Naval Reserve in 1979, and joined the "Blue Dolphins" of VA-203. During his tenure, the unit earned multiple top squadron honors, and Captain Bailey transitioned to the F/A-18 Hornet before assuming command of the squadron in 1990. Bill cherished the many friendships he made during his Naval career.

In addition to his distinguished military service, Captain Bailey pursued a successful commercial aviation career, flying as a pilot for Eastern Airlines for 10 years, Northwest Airlines for 10 years, and concluding his career with Delta Air Lines until his retirement. At each airline he enjoyed working in the training department in addition to flying.

Outside of his career, Bill was happiest on the golf course, spending time with his family, working in his yard, traveling with his wife, and following the Jacksonville Jaguars. He will be remembered for his unwavering integrity, his kind nature towards everyone he met, his deep devotion to his family, and, most of all, his wonderful laugh.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife of 49 years, Katherine; their children, Brian (Jackie) and Allison Grant (Jeffery); and their seven cherished grandsons: Brody, Holden, Reed, Ian, Declan, Ryan, and Wesley. He is also survived by his siblings, Jack (Emma), Robert (Shelly), Tim (Anne), Dan, and Mary Beth Catenzaro (Frank).

A Mass will be held on Friday, September 4, at Annunciation Catholic Church, 1020 Montgomery Road, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714, at 10:00 AM. Interment with military honors will take place at the Jacksonville National Cemetery at a later date. Friends are welcome. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network or a charity of your choice.

Sunday, August 30, 2026

NWA Capt. John Lackey

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

Navy veteran, NWA Capt. John Lackey

November 6, 1939 ~ May 20, 2026

 


John passed away peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at his beloved beach home in Wildwood, New Jersey…………………

Following his military service, John Earl Lackey joined Northwest Airlines 05-06-1968 and retired with Northwest in 1999.  John is survived by his wife Claire, and by his children and his grandchildren. 

PCN memorial site 

 https://ingersollgreenwoodfh.com/tribute/details/1117  

John Earl Lackey passed away peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at his beloved beach home in Wildwood, New Jersey. He was born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and raised in Gore, Oklahoma.

 

John attended Northeastern Oklahoma State University, where he earned a degree in mathematics education. After a brief time teaching high school, he joined the United States Navy and became an accomplished naval aviator. He proudly completed three tours in Vietnam flying the E-2 Hawkeye and achieved more than 100 successful aircraft carrier landings while serving aboard the USS Ticonderoga, USS Bon Homme Richard, and USS Kitty Hawk. He retired from the Navy with the rank of Lieutenant Commander.

 

In addition to his military service, John began a distinguished career with Northwest Airlines in 1968, flying for more than 30 years before retiring in 1999. He captained aircraft as large as the Boeing 747-200 and was known throughout his career for his professionalism and commitment to safety. It was at Northwest Airlines where he met the love of his life, Claire, who also enjoyed a long career with the airline. They married in June 1976 and shared nearly 50 devoted years together.

 

John loved Phillies baseball, Eagles football, boating, model trains, his dogs, and fixing anything that was broken. He was a member and past Commodore of the Cape Coral Cruise Club and spent many happy days boating with Claire aboard their beloved 40-foot Silverton, Claire E. He cherished winters in Southwest Florida and summers at the Jersey Shore.

 

Above all, John loved his family deeply. He is survived by his loving wife Claire; his children, Joseph and Jeffrey and his cherished grandchildren, Allison, Ryan, Alex, and Jade.

 

In a final reflection of the love that defined his life, John’s last words before going to bed Tuesday evening were simply, “I love you,” spoken while looking into his wife’s eyes.

Friday, August 28, 2026

NWA/DL Capt. David William Main

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

USAF veteran, NWA/DL Capt. David William Main

March 12, 1950  ~  August 26, 2026

 


David William Main joined Northwest Airlines 07-12-1979 and retired with Delta Air Lines.  He is survived by his wife Louise, and by his daughters and their families.

Having most recently resided in Georgia, I see the family’ address listed in whitepages as

812 Eagle Dr, Griffin, GA 30223.

Services for David will be held September 1 at 1:00 PM in the chapel of Conner-Westbury Funeral Home in Griffin.

 

PCN memorial site

 

https://www.conner-westburyfuneralhome.com/obituaries/David-William-Main?obId=49398582

David William Main Obituary

Mr. David William Main, age 76, Griffin, passed away on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at his residence.

David was born on March 12, 1950, in Plainfield, New Jersey. He is preceded in death by his parents, Earl Main, and Elizabeth Hunter Main; brother-in-law, Gyuri Nemeth. David served his country in the United States Air Force and was a retired pilot with Delta Airlines.

 

David is survived by his wife, Louise Currin Main; daughters and their spouses, Amy (Stephane) Allagnon, Suzanne (Shaun) Benton; grandchildren, Ethan Allagnon, Eric Allagnon, Kadie (Cat) Benton, Kaleb (Camilla) Benton, Scott Bennett, Kensley (Braden) Firth, Zachary Bennett, Carter Benton; sister, Susan Nemeth; brother, Jeffery (Nancy) Main; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

 

A memorial service will be conducted on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at 1:00 pm in the chapel of Conner-Westbury Funeral Home with Reverend JoAn Kinrade officiating.

 

Conner-Westbury Funeral Home, 1891 W. McIntosh Road, Griffin, is in charge of arrangements.

Please join the family and friends in honoring the life of Mr. David William Main by visiting www.conner-westburyfuneralhome.com and posting your tributes and memories.

Thursday, August 27, 2026

NWA Capt. Bradley Pass

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

NWA Capt. Bradley Pass

March 30, 1941 ~ August 22, 2026            

 


Minneapolis lost a uniquely generous and magnanimous resident when Bradley John Pass, age 85, passed away on Saturday, Aug. 22…………

Brad joined Northwest Airlines 06-06-1966 and retired with Northwest in 2001.  Widowed in 2024, Brad is survived by his children and grandchildren.

Cards may be sent to the family at 5139 S 34th Ave #17097, Minneapolis, MN 55417.

 PCN memorial site     

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/bradley-pass-obituary?id=62285416 

Bradley Pass Obituary

Obituary :  Cremation Society of Minnesota (First Memorial Funeral Chapel) - Edina

Minneapolis lost a uniquely generous and magnanimous resident when Bradley John Pass, age 85, passed away on Saturday, Aug. 22, 2026.

Brad was born to Melvin Pass and Dorothy (Kolbert) Pass on March 30, 1941 in Minneapolis, MN. He graduated from Murray High School in St. Paul, MN and attended the University of Minnesota before embarking on his career as pilot on 6/6/1966.

Brad met Carol Armstrong through a friend and they wed on Dec. 18, 1971. Together, Brad and Carol had two sons, Gabriel and Daniel. Both before and after their sons were born, Brad and Carol traveled the world as opportunistic adventurers, operating with a lot of information but not a lot of plans, seeking out-of-the way gems with the best food and most interesting tours. Brad turned an old green mining truck into a camper, and they were notorious for bringing along friends in their tiny house on wheels to places like Glacier National Park, California, and Colorado.

In the 1970s, the duo opened The Dark Room at 2116 Lyndale Avenue S., and The Great Northwest Gentlemen's Apparel and Haberdashery (with Carol's sister Judy) in Dinky Dale. Brad and Carol filled their house with hand-made light fixtures and local artwork, sharing beauty with their visitors. Brad was a photographer and potter who built his own pottery wheels. Throughout his life, people were drawn to Brad's easy-going nature, and as he worked around his house and the neighborhood, he was often seen teaching others how to use a hammer and saw. When Dan was born, he and Gabriel created a rocking machine to help soothe the baby. They built many things over the years, including an AM radio and an impressive treehouse in the backyard. Brad was a master craftsman, renovating many houses and putting creative touches on his own. He enjoyed motorcycling and bringing their boat out on the St. Croix River.

Brad surveyed the Alaska backcountry, and then spent 35 years flying for Northwest Airlines. He started on a turbine prop, the Lockheed Electra, and then shifted to the 747. His extended trips took him as far away as Tokyo, with overnight stops in Honolulu, and Amsterdam with stops in Miami. He worked his way up to DC-10 Instructor Pilot and Check Pilot. Brad hit mandatory retirement at age 60 in March 2001. Upon retiring, he flew the B25 Bomber Miss Mitchell for the Minnesota Wing of the Commemorative Air Force, receiving their First to Lead award in 2003, Top Communications award in 2005 and Airman of the Year award in 2006.

At 6 foot, 4 inches, Brad was taller than most but he didn't tower over people. Instead, he was a warm person who found ways to make everyone feel like they belonged – no matter who they were. He taught his children and others by example. "Beepa Brad" loved caring for his grandchildren, listening to them and telling them stories. Aurora remembers him picking her up from swim team practice using his airline captain schpiel, "Good afternoon, this is your captain speaking. The time is now___. The weather in Minneapolis is good, and your flight is expected to arrive on time at gate ___." Brad didn't bring casseroles to family dinners, but that didn't mean he came empty-handed. Instead, he arrived with his arms full of snacks, herring, olives and whatever else he thought others would like, and he always had tic tacs in his pocket. Brad's care and generosity extended beyond immediate family, to include 2 foster sons, Becelone and Leroy, who stayed with the family in their teens.

Together with Carol, Brad devoted himself to his community. Brad preferred that his wife, Carol, be in the spotlight, but he was a solid force behind each community effort. Together they personally owned a number houses in East Phillips in an effort to create safe, affordable housing for the neighborhood, where they also resided for nearly 60 years. Brad was generous with his time. He served on the board of the East Phillips Neighborhood Institute until his death, supporting the East Phillips Indoor Urban Farm project at the former Roof Depot. He and Carol raised funds to build the East Phillips Cultural and Community Center, supported renovation and redevelopment of the neighborhood pool to create the Phillips Aquatics Center, and raised funds for numerous housing initiatives in East Phillips, striving to bring happiness, resources, and attention to the community. They were proud of having worked to stop many environmental injustices, like the garbage burner and the Hiawatha Public Works Expansion Project, and birthing the East Phillips Indoor Urban Farm project at the former Roof Depot. Brad helped organized Clean Sweep in East Phillips for many years and helped manage the Community Garden at 2428 17th Avenue S. He served on the Capital Long Range Improvement Committee for Minneapolis Parks, the board of the Green Institute, and the design team for the East Phillips Park Cultural and Community Center. He always brought the coffee and donuts.

Brad was known for his ability to bring people together in diplomatic ways that made everyone feel seen and heard, even when they didn't all agree. He could be firm in his advocacy for the community while still coming off as polite and magnanimous, helping others focus in on the common good. Brad knew how to read a room. Carol was the strategist and he punctuated their work.

Brad was indeed the person you wanted flying the plane. Smart, steady, unflappable, level headed - while also being extremely caring, gentle, kind, warm and humble. There was always a smile under that mustache.

In his final years, although he suffered from cancer, Brad was the easiest person to live with. He practiced gratitude, kindness and respect toward everyone around him daily. The day before his death, Brad told his nurse, "I'm sorry that my departure will prevent me from being here."

Survived by: brother Roger (Grace) Pass; children: Gabriel (Amy) Pass and Daniel (Laurel) Pass; and grandchildren: Francisca, Aurora, Rosslyn, Ailsa (Autumn), and Moira (Jay).

Preceded by his parents Melvin Pass and Dorothy (Kolbert) Pass, and wife Carol Armstrong Pass (in 2024).

A private memorial will be held with interment at Fairview Cemetery in Mound. Arrangements by the Cremation Society of Minnesota. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the East Phillips Neighborhood Institute or the Commemorative Air Force. Notes to the family, memories and photos may be left in the online guestbook. Cards may be sent to the family at 5139 S 34th Ave #17097, Minneapolis, MN 55417. 

 

https://cremationsocietyofmn.com/tribute/details/79411 

Carol Ann Armstrong Pass

August 28, 1942 - May 28, 2024

Tuesday, August 25, 2026

NWA/DL Capt. Craig Christilaw

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

NWA/DL Capt. Craig Christilaw

January 24, 1951 ~ August 16, 2026

 


Craig fell in love with flying at the age of five when he took an airplane ride in an old Aeronca……….

Craig joined Northwest Airlines 10-13-1989 and retired with Delta Air Lines based Detroit.  Craig is survived by his wife Colleen, and by his two children and their families.

A Celebration of Craig’s Life reception will be held on September 9, 2026 from 5:00-8:00 PM at Camp Blodgett Retreat Center in West Olive, Michigan….please see obituary details below.

 

PCN memorial site

 

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/craig-christilaw-obituary?id=62266318

Obituary : On August 16, 2026 at age 75, Craig Christilaw began his solo flight to his final resting place after a short battle with glioblastoma. Born in Midland, Michigan in 1951, Craig was the eldest of five children and grew up driving tractors on his family's farm. He obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Aviation from Western Michigan University. Craig fell in love with flying at the age of five when he took an airplane ride in an old Aeronca. This lifelong passion became a defining thread throughout his entire life.

Craig’s flying career took him from the small single-engine airplanes of his college years to some of the world’s great commercial aircraft. As a Department of Aviation student at Western, he paid for airplane rental by working as a lineman, refueling airplanes on the Kalamazoo airfield, building time in Cessna 150s, 172s, 177s and 182s, Mooney M-10 Cadets, Piper Cherokees and Grumman American AA-1B and -1Cs. After graduation and his marriage to his loving wife of 50 years, Colleen, he became a “freight dog,” hauling automotive parts in twin Cessna 310s, 402s and 411s. His career flourished from there and with it came flying time in the Beech 99, Hawker Siddeley 125, Gulfstream Turbo Commander, Boeing 727, Citation III, Lear 35A, Navajo Chieftain, Cessna 421 Golden Eagle, IAI Westwind 2 and Challenger 600. In 1989, Craig landed his dream job with Northwest Airlines, where he flew the Boeing 727, DC-9, Airbus A320 and ultimately the A330. After Northwest merged with Delta Airlines, the boy who had fallen in love with flying during a ride in an old Aeronca, finished his professional career crossing oceans in the A330 for Delta, flying international routes before retiring in 2011.

During retirement, Craig owned two airplanes, bringing his remarkable aviation journey almost full circle, back to the kind of small airplanes that had first captured his imagination as a child. He returned to flying purely for the joy of it, owning first a Grumman American AA-1A Yankee and later a Cessna 177 Cardinal, both of which he adored. Desiring to give back to the local aviation community, he served on the City of Grand Haven Airport Board and in 2016, as a Grand Haven Aviation Association member, he spent his entire summer nearly single-handedly re-painting the F-100 Super Sabre jet in Thunderbird colors at the Grand Haven City Airport. He enjoyed being a member of EAA Chapter 211 at the Grand Haven Airport and volunteered many hours to help restore vintage aircraft with fellow airplane enthusiasts.

An involved father, Craig coached his son’s AYSO soccer teams and Odyssey of the Mind team, cheered on his children at their sporting and school events, and enthusiastically attended his daughter’s various musical, theatre, and dance performances. Time with his family was always among his greatest joys. They shared a lifelong closeness and spent time together as much as possible. He was an Amateur Radio enthusiast, an interest that started in high school and only ended when his brain cancer silenced him this summer. He loved talking daily on the 80-meter band across the North American continent and the 2-meter band locally. He had many steadfast radio friends across the USA from 30 years of talking on the 4:30 to 5:30 am “Nut Factory” net. He was also a member of North Ottawa Amateur Radio Club (NOARC) for years and enjoyed contributing to public service activities and Field Days.

Craig loved adventure and was keen on rollerblading, skydiving (22 jumps), jet ski adventures, motorcycle riding, backpack camping, and long-distance car driving. He had a 60-year, love/hate yet faithful relationship with Detroit Tigers baseball and Detroit Lions football with the frequent refrain, “next year they are going to win it.” He perfected swimming pool maintenance for his backyard pools and was known as the Cannonball King for his expertise in that maneuver. Craig was a generous and kind person, meeting everyone with a wide smile. His life was committed to hard work, integrity, and consideration of others. He made many friends at the local Y in his years of daily workouts and on his twice-daily dog walks into Lake Forest Cemetery. He was known in jest as the “Mayor of Gladys Circle”. He was a treasure to his family, and they were his greatest treasures. He will be missed forever by his family and many, many friends.

Craig is survived by his true love, Colleen Rockey, and his adored children; son, Matthew Christilaw, daughter Cathleen (Drew) Kenney and his beloved golden retriever, Princess Violet, and granddog Lucy; also by his siblings, Janine (Randy) Bingham, Ward (Lynne) Christilaw, and Teresa (Billie Jo) Christilaw and brothers-in-law, Larry (Linda) Rockey, Bruce Rockey, James (Maria) Rockey, and Daniel (Tifenn Boisard) Rockey, and his treasured nephews and nieces and their families. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Christilaw and Clare Chritz, his brother, Scott Christilaw, his parents-in-law, Gordon and Alyce Rockey, brother-in-law William Rockey and his cherished Labrador Retrievers, Emma and Luke and granddog, Stella.

A Celebration of Craig’s Life reception will be held on Wednesday September 9, 2026, from 5:00 to 8:00 pm at Camp Blodgett Retreat Center, 10451 Lakeshore Ave, West Olive. We welcome family, friends, and his many acquaintances to join us.

Sunday, August 23, 2026

NWA Capt. George “Greg” Booze

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

NWA Capt. George “Greg” Booze

October 26, 1944 ~ August 19, 2026

 

From the retired Northwest Airlines pilot group comes word with the passing of Captain George “Greg” Gregory Booze, a good friend and working colleague to many.  Greg was born in Kansas City, Missouri. By 1950 the Booze family had moved to Florida where Greg would go on to attend the University of Florida.  Of interest, Greg’s father Captain George Lucian Booze was a WWII pilot and flew for National Airlines based Miami after his time in service. Greg joined Northwest Airlines 10-25-1965.  Daughter Melissa was born during Greg’s time while based in MSP.  Greg had most recently resided in Florida.

If more is learned, we will be sure to repost details.

Thank you,

~ Carol for the PCN

PCN memorial site

 

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/punta-gorda-fl/george-booze-13011663

OBITUARY George Gregory Booze

IN THE CARE OF Kays-Ponger & Uselton Funeral Homes & Cremation Services

George Gregory Booze passed on August 19, 2026, at the age of 81, having been born on October 26, 1944. George was a resident of Punta Gorda, Florida.

 

Death Notice: Greg Booze < wlday@comcast.net >:

 

Dear NWA Friends and Colleagues,   

The following information has been received from Howie Leland and Bill Iams.

 

George "Greg" Booze fell on July 24th resulting in severe brain injuries. He was hospitalized in the Ft Myers Gulf coast Hospital trauma ICU ……………..

 Howie Leland

  

On a personal note: Greg Booze was an NWA Pilot Hire classmate of mine. He

was hired by NWA on Oct. 25, 1965. Greg was one of the youngest classmates,

born 10/26/44, almost exactly four years after me. There were other

exceptionally young fellows in this class, e.g., Bob Peasley, Dick Wing, Jim

Landgren, Paul Tosch, et al………………..  

It was an honor and pleasure knowing Greg Booze.

 

Bill Day

 

Friday, August 21, 2026

RC/NWA Capt. David Fargo Miller

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

USAF veteran, RC/NWA Capt. David Miller

May 6, 1941 ~ August 17, 2026

 

After his time with Altair, David “Dave” Fargo Miller then joined Republic 05-19-1983 and retired with Northwest Airlines in 2003.  Dave is survived by his wife Cindy, and by his sons and their families.

PCN memorial site

 

Dear Friends,

The Miller Family invite you to join them for the viewing and service to honor our husband and father Dave Miller starting at 11am and 1pm respectively on August 25th, 2026.  The viewing and service will be held at St Tim’s Lutheran Church, 535 Lamp Post Lane, Aston, PA 19014.

At the conclusion of the service there will be a luncheon at the Rose Tree Fire Company, 1275 N. Providence Road, Media

Please use the link below to St Tim’s to view Dave’s obituary.

https://sites.google.com/sttimsaston.com/elca

Sincerely,

The Miller Family

 

Obituary of David Fargo Miller  (1941 – 2026)

(posted at the request of the family)

The skies were saddened and gray on August 17th, 2026, with the passing of David ‘Dave’ Fargo Miller. Born on May 6th, 1941, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Eleanor and Harrison Miller. Dave rounded out the family to his older sisters Julie and Pat.

Dave received his early education through the Lower Merion schools, graduating in 1959. He subsequently enlisted in the United States Air Force, trained as Munitions Specialist, and served overseas at Bitburg AFB and Wheelus AFB. Honorably discharged from the Air Force Reserves in 1964, he rotated to civilian life. He worked various civilian jobs, but nothing challenged his restless mind. Setting off for Reno Air Races in 1964, watching the high-powered racing aircraft lit his passion that served him personally and professionally for the rest of his life. Dave learned to fly, soloed, achieving instrument and multi-engine ratings. Continuing to challenge himself he completed his studies at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical Institute for commercial instrument and flight instructor ratings. After earning his instructor ratings, he was able to teach his passion.

Valentine’s Day 1969, his first day at Altair Airlines, was the perfect airline for Dave. Because just a few short years later, he met his one and only love. In Williamsport Airport he met Cynthia Ann McKee. Cindy was a ticket agent and loved watching him come and hated to see him go. Dave added as many trips to Williamsport as his schedule would allow to see Cindy again. Cindy and Dave were happily married on August 18th, 1973.

Thirty thousand hours of flight professionally at Altair, Republic and Northwest Airlines including personal flight in his own airplane. Professionally, Dave flew DC-9’s, 727’s, 757’s and DC-10’s. He was promoted to Captain at Altair and Northwest, both times flying his favorite jet, the DC-9. Dave retired from Northwest in May of 2003, as Flight Engineer, getting a couple more years of flight. He owned two airplanes; a Cessna 170B and a Beech Bonanza. After retiring from Northwest there wasn’t anywhere Dave and Cindy wouldn’t go in the Bonanza.

After the flights were complete, downtime for Dave was family time. There were trips to the Shore, trips to Cindy’s home and as his sons grew up, trips to go skiing. When his sons got older, the trips got bigger with the inclusion of family friends. And when Dave was blessed with granddaughters there were trips to the cabin and Lake Lure.

Where Dave made his greatest impact to those around him was his ability to fix anything. If something broke in the house or a neighbor’s house, Dave was there. Anyone was welcome to his shop, and he would teach them anything they wanted to know. Once again, teaching his passion. Cars, trucks, motorcycles, engines and one airplane have arrived at the doorstep of Dave and Cindy’s home in U-Hauls, on trailers, in crates and boxes. Where everyone saw junk, Dave saw treasure that just needed awakening. Used, wrecked, in pieces it didn’t matter. Father and sons, together in the shop, fixing and returning to running better than it left the assembly line. He honed his abilities and won awards. From the Antique Automobile Club of America he won National Awards for his restoration of his 1946 Harley Davidson and a friend’s 1932 Chevrolet.

In all of this, he also found time to join the Rose Tree Fire Company No. 1 in 2012. He served as Engineer, Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator and Chief Engineer. He was awarded top ten for fire calls and training in many of those years of service at Rose Tree Fire Company.

Dave was a member of Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), American Bonanza Society, Historical Car Club of Pennsylvania, Antique Automobile Club of America, and a founding member of the American Air Museum in Britain. He was also a devoted member of St. Timothy's Lutheran Church for over 40 years, where, among other roles, he served as a reader, greeter, and usher.

Dave is survived by his wife of fifty-three years, Cindy: two sons: Matthew (Carolyn) of Greenville, South Carolina, and James of Glen Mills, Pennsylvania. He leaves behind his beloved granddaughters: Annabelle and Sloane. Dave also leaves behind his dachshund Lilli. Dave was predeceased by his beloved parents and sister, Julie.

A memorial service will be held on August 25th, 2026 at St Timothy’s Lutheran Church at 1:00pm, with a viewing beforehand from 11a-1p. A private interment ceremony will be held the following day. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully asks that memorial contributions in Dave's name be made to St. Timothy's or the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.

 

St. Timothy's Lutheran Church               Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research           

535 Lamp Post Lane                                            Grand Central Station, PO BOX 4777

Aston, PA 19014                                                  New York, NY 10163-4777

Located at:

535 Lamp Post Lane, Aston, PA 19014