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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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Monday, August 11, 2025

DL Capt. Dennis M. "Gabby" Eberhardt

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

Military veteran, DL Capt. Dennis M. "Gabby" Eberhardt

September 23, 1948 – August 4, 2025

 


Dennis M. "Gabby" Eberhardt, 76, of Black River Falls passed away peacefully at home on Monday, August 4th, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Gabby is survived by his wife Deborah, and by his children and their families.

Captain Dennis Marvin Eberhardt joined Delta Air Lines 08-29-1977 and was based CVG/030.

PCN memorial site

 

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, from 4-7 PM at the Brad and Ann Eberhardt residence, N7011 Bible Rd., Black River Falls, WI…..please see obituary below.

 

Online links : https://www.buswellfh.com/obituaries/Dennis-Marvin-Eberhardt?obId=43890753 

Also  https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/dennis-eberhardt-obituary?id=59160863 

 

Dennis Eberhardt Obituary

Dennis M. "Gabby" Eberhardt, 76, of Black River Falls passed away peacefully at home on Monday, August 4th, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on September 23, 1948, in Arcadia, Wisconsin to Clemens and Melaine (Mueller) Eberhardt. He graduated from Arcadia High School in 1966. After graduation, Gabby attended Wisconsin State University-La Crosse majoring in education. During his college years his parents moved to Black River Falls, WI. Over summer break of 1968 Gabby met Debbie Millis whose grandparents lived across the street. A year later, on August 30, 1969, Gabby and Debbie were married in Black River Falls, WI, leading to over 55 years of marriage.

 

After graduation from UW-LaCrosse in 1971, Gabby enlisted as an officer in the United States Navy. Gabby and Debbie lived in Pensacola, FL, Corpus Christie, TX and finally in Alameda, CA while serving in the Navy. He served our country until 1977 when he was honorably discharged as a lieutenant and naval aviator. Upon completion of his naval career, Gabby packed up his family and trusty springer spaniel "Jake" in the old Ford LTD and moved them all back to Wisconsin. In August of 1977 Gabby was prepared to start teaching physical education and coaching JV football in Tomah when he got the call from Delta Airlines, they offered him a job as a commercial airline pilot, fulfilling his dream of flying airplanes for a living. This began his 25-year career working for Delta, starting as a flight engineer on a 727 and retiring as a captain flying 757/767 jets to multiple countries.

 

Gabby was known for his quick wit, competitive spirit and social interactions. His nickname is a testament to this. He was a three-sport athlete in high school and continued his playing career in baseball and fastpitch/slow-pitch softball post-graduation. The ballfield was where he met many of his lifelong friends. He was also an avid fisherman; spending many trips with friends to Canada, Minnesota and South Dakota. But Gabby's passion was hunting, starting in the bluffs of Buffalo County and continuing on to the mountains out west. Gabby enjoyed hunting/fishing with his friends, but the joy of his life was his family. As his hunting and fishing slowed down, he enjoyed spending time taking his grandkids hunting and fishing with him and watching their sporting events. Gabby was prouder of them being successful than any of his personal achievements. He was always making sure his family was taken care of and willing to lend a hand of help anytime it was needed. There were many weekends spent in the basement of his home, watching Badger or Packers games around the warm fire he would have ready for them. The annual get together at Gabby & Debbie's home the night before deer season was always a treasured event. These memories will live on forever.

 

When Gabby wasn't busy flying airplanes, fishing or hunting, he filled his free time serving his community through multiple organizations. He was a member of the Black River Gun Club, Shaftbusters Archery and Sportsmans Club, and the Hixton American Legion Post #368. He was also a member of Ducks Unlimited and a founding member of the Jackson County Wildlife Fund. After his retirement from Delta in 2002, Gabby began his second career by getting involved in local government and community boards. He was elected to the Jackson County Board of Supervisors in 2004 and retired in 2016, with 8 years leading Jackson County as the Chairperson. He also served on the Black River Memorial Hospital Board (2010-2018, 3 Years Chair) and was President of the Lunda Community Center Board (2017-2020). In 2015, Gabby received the Black River Falls Rotary Service Above Self Award recognizing his service to the Black River Falls community.

 

Gabby is survived by his wife of 55 years Deborah (Millis) Eberhardt along with his children Bradley (Ann) Eberhardt and Amy (Brian) Aebly, all of Black River Falls; his grandchildren Madison Eberhardt, Spencer and Samuel Aebly, Nathan (Chelsea), Megan and Brandon Stenulson; his great-grandchildren Alaina, Khloe, Amelia, Evalee, and Iyla Stenulson. He is also survived by his big brother, Darrel (Marilyn) Eberhardt along with numerous in-laws, nieces and nephews.

 

Gabby was preceded in death by his daughter, Trisha Jean Eberhardt; his parents Clem and Melaine Eberhardt; his in-laws Phillip (Frog) and Betty Millis; and his sister and brother-in-law Darlene and Bob Wolfe.

 

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, from 4-7 PM at the Brad and Ann Eberhardt residence, N7011 Bible Rd., Black River Falls, WI. There will be a Memorial Program starting at 5 PM with an Honor Guard presentation following the short program. Food, drink and laughter will be provided.

 

The family requests any monetary donations be given to Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers. Gabby enjoyed spending many years at Time for You and was one of their longest tenured members, showing how much he enjoyed being with friends.

 

Thank you to St. Croix Hospice for the quality of care given to Gabby over his past few months. A special thank you to all those that helped take care of Gabby, without your support he would not have been able to enjoy staying at home until his time of passing; Darrel, Karen, Suzanne, Michelle and Jen. Thank you so much to all that supported his journey.

DL Capt. Gerald “Jerry” Meyers

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

USAF veteran, DL Capt. Gerald “Jerry” John Meyers

October 8, 1939 ~ April 6, 2024

 


Jerry Meyers, 84, passed away on *April 6, 2024, in Fayetteville, Georgia. Born on October 8, 1939, in Dubuque, Iowa, Jerry lived a life marked by dedication, adventure, and deep love for his family………….

 

Captain Gerald “Jerry” John Meyers joined Delta Air Lines 03-14-1969 and retired in 1999 based Atlanta.  He is survived by his wife Lyn, and by his children and their families.

PCN memorial site  

 

*Obituary published on Legacy.com by Georgia Cremation - Fayetteville on Aug. 11, 2025.

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/gerald-meyers-obituary?id=59173108

also  https://georgiacremation.com/obituary/gerald-john-meyers/

Gerald Meyers Obituary

Jerry Meyers, 84, passed away on April 6, 2024, in Fayetteville, Georgia. Born on October 8, 1939, in Dubuque, Iowa, Jerry lived a life marked by dedication, adventure, and deep love for his family.

Jerry was especially cherished for his role within the family. Jerry is survived by his beloved wife, Lyn Meyers; sons Jason Meyers and his wife Denise; Brandon Meyers and his wife Dayle; and grandchildren Emma Meyers and Evan Meyers. He was deeply loved as a husband, pappa, and friend.

He was preceded in death by his sisters Janice Welbes and Carol Barry.

Jerry proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1963 to 1969. As a Captain flying the T-38 supersonic trainer, he demonstrated exceptional skill and composure in the skies, having co-written and developed the training program with fellow Captain Marvin Keech at Randolph Air Force base in Texas. Following his military service, he embarked on a distinguished 30- year career with Delta Airlines. From 1969 until his retirement in 1999, Jerry flew professionally and ultimately retired as a Captain on the MD-88 airliner. His time in aviation reflected not only his technical mastery but also his lifelong passion for flight.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jerry was known for his remarkable versatility and boundless energy. A self-made man of many talents, he approached every challenge with determination and an infectious sense of humor. Whether piloting an aircraft or maneuvering a tractor across open fields, Jerry brought precision and joy to everything he did. He was also an exceptional mechanic, known for resurrecting lost cause vehicles, rebuilding engines, building a show winning Grand National and turning the wrenches on an 11- second diesel truck.

Jerry's zest for life extended into every corner of his world. He was known for his quick wit and memorable jokes that could light up any room. On the pickleball court he was cool under pressure; on fishing trips he was patient and skilled; at home he was steady and loving. His presence brought comfort and laughter to those around him.

Jerry's legacy lives on through the many lives he touched with kindness, humor, and unwavering support. May his memory bring a smile to all who knew him.

The Meyers family was assisted by Georgia Cremation-Fayetteville. 1086 Highway 54 W. Fayetteville, GA 30214, (770)756-8702

Evelyn “Lyn” Strong, wife of DL Capt. John P. Strong

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

Evelyn “Lyn” Strong, wife of DL Capt. John P. Strong

August 2, 1937 ~ July 11, 2025

 


https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/evelyn-strong-obituary?id=58939275 

Evelyn Strong Obituary

On her 37th wedding anniversary with the love of her life, Lyn (Evelyn) Baum Strong entered the hospital near their beloved home in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. Two weeks later, at her request, she returned home to begin hospice care, surrounded by her devoted husband, six sons, daughter, and daughter-in-law. After several cherished outings to admire the water in her backyard – and even a 1950s dance party with her children in her room – Lyn passed away peacefully on the evening of July 11, 2025, with her husband and children by her side.
Born in Buffalo, New York, to Emma Hazel Lilley and Harry Elmer Baum, Lyn graduated from nursing school in 1978 and found a calling in psychiatric nursing, dedicating her career to caring for some of the most vulnerable members of society. Widowed in her 20s and divorced in her 40s, she met John, a Delta Air Lines captain, when he moved into a townhome near hers in Stone Mountain, Georgia. They married in 1988, later building a house and hangar in a fly-in community, near Griffin, Georgia. There, Lyn began taking classes in drawing, watercolor, and oil painting – passions that would shape the next chapter of her life.
Together, she and John enjoyed traveling in their single-engine Cessna, embracing what Lyn described as a "fun and different lifestyle for us." Their adventures extended beyond the skies as they visited destinations including New Zealand, Great Britain, Germany, Denmark, Hawaii and Alaska.
In 1995, the couple settled in the peaceful town of New Smyrna Beach, where Lyn became active in the Artists' Workshop, managing publicity for the local and Daytona newspapers. Over the years, she earned awards in numerous art contests across Florida and found great joy in her close-knit "Bookies" book club.
After John's retirement from Delta just one month after 9/11, the couple continued to enjoy life in the warm, tropical climate they loved. They also maintained a home in Peachtree City, Georgia, close to their children and grandchildren, where many treasured holiday and birthday gatherings took place.
Lyn is survived by her husband, John; her children, John Brown, Gary Brown, Thom Brown, Matt (Linda) Brown, Steve (Roxane) Mondibrown, Tracey (Cliff) Rogers, and Christopher Brown; her stepchildren, Brian (Debbie) Strong and Kristine (Ron) Ciarimboli; 15 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and her sister, Louise Burns.
While Lyn never showed favoritism among her children, her youngest son, Chris, insists he was the most adored - citing his good looks, sharp wit, and "all-around coolness." His siblings unanimously and emphatically dispute every aspect of these claims, especially the one about his looks.
A beachside memorial service for Lyn's family will be held on her 88th birthday, Saturday, August 2, 2025 at 9:00 a.m., at Canaveral National Seashore, Parking Lot 1 (7611 S. Atlantic Ave., New Smyrna Beach; parking fees apply). Lyn and John's beloved family friend, Father Jim Spencer, will officiate. Her son Chris may or may not be invited :).
Lyn once wrote: "I've had a wonderful life in spite of one or two cross currents. Especially with that tall, good-looking, blue-eyed, blonde – oh, gray now – man who has given me more than I ever deserved. But I took it anyway."
The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the ICU nurses at AdventHealth New Smyrna Beach for their exceptional care, and to the compassionate nurses of Halifax Health Hospice for helping guide Lyn and her loved ones through her final days.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Lyn's honor to the Healing Bridge Clinic in Peachtree City, Georgia, which provides free medical care to underserved individuals: www.healingbridgeclinic.org/donate

Sunday, August 10, 2025

NEA/DL Capt. James R. Jackson

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

Military veteran, NEA/DL Capt. James R. Jackson

March 1, 1935 — July 13, 2025

 


Using the GI Bill, he attended American Flyers Flight School. Following graduation, he worked as a flight instructor and as a corporate pilot before joining the airlines. Jim was a pilot for Northeast Airlines and Delta Airlines for 28 years……..

Jim joined Northeast Airlines 09-06-1966 and retired with Delta Air Lines based Boston.  He is survived by his wife Jean, and by his children and their families.  A Celebration of Life event will be held at a future date….please see obituary information below.

Thank you,

~ Carol for the PCN

PCN memorial site

 

https://obits.csnh.com/james-jackson 

 

James Jackson

James R. Jackson of Exeter, New Hampshire and Stonington, Maine, died on July 13, 2025 at his home in Exeter. He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Jean D. Jackson; his children, Brenda Clark, Karen Lopilato (Philip), and James Jackson, Jr. (Deborah); their mother, Selma Gould, predeceased him. His is also survived by his stepsons, Phillip Bourgelais (Julie) and Paul Bourgelais (Karin), and grandchildren, Bryan Riddle, Corey and Kevin Clark, Douglas and Gregory Jackson, Christian Andrews, Addison Bourgelais and several great grandchildren.

 

Born on March 1, 1935 in Exeter, NH, Jim grew up on the Parkman Farm in Stratham, NH with his father, George R. Jackson. At an early age, Jim knew he wanted to fly and soloed in a Piper J-3 Cub at the Portsmouth Airport, at the age of 16. After graduating from Exeter High School in 1953, he joined the Air Force and served as a Staff Sergeant in the Korean Conflict. Using the GI Bill, he attended American Flyers Flight School. Following graduation, he worked as a flight instructor and as a corporate pilot before joining the airlines. Jim was a pilot for Northeast Airlines and Delta Airlines for 28 years.

 

In retirement, Jim continued to fly a series of “little planes”.

 

Always a support of General Aviation, Jim built 38 GA hangars at Portsmouth International Airport. As a volunteer pilot, he flew for Angel Flight, NE. For the past 17 years, he volunteered to maintain the Stonington Airport in Maine, where he spent several months each year. While there, Jim enjoyed using his small plane to provide aerial tours of the Maine Islands for friends and family.

 

ARRANGEMENTS: A family gathering will be held at a later date. Assisting the family with arrangements is the Cremation Society of NH, Hampton. Donations in his memory can be made to the Stonington Airport, Stonington Airport Fund, Stonington Town Hall, Main Street, Stonington, Maine 04681. To view James's Online Tribute, send condolences to the family, or for more information, visit https://csnh.com  

Saturday, August 9, 2025

NWA Capt. Mario R. Sotolongo

 Updated with online funeral home notice : Mario Sotolongo

 https://www.niefuneralhomes.com/memorials/mario-sotolongo/5623578/ 

Mario is preceded in death by his parents, and sister, Magdalena “Magda”.

 

He is survived by wife of 41 years, Mona; sons, Aleck and Nicolas; nephews, Robert (Lizbel) and Octavio (Patricia) Fernandez; and many extended family members and friends.

 

A memorial service will be held at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church at a later date.

 


 

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

NWA Capt. Mario R. Sotolongo

August 1, 1945 ~ August 2, 2025

 

From friends & colleagues, we have just learned of the passing of retired Northwest Airlines pilot Captain Mario Ramon Sotolongo, age 80.  Mario joined Northwest Airlines 04-25-1977.  He had most recently resided in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Services for Captain Sotolongo will be held at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, August 13th, 2025 at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, 530 Elizabeth St., Ann Arbor, Michigan.  Inurnment will follow the Funeral Mass at the St. Thomas Cemetery.

 

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

Thank you,

~ Carol for the PCN

PCN memorial site