RC/NWA/DL Capt. Lyle Dennis Pfeifer

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

RC/NWA/DL Capt. Lyle Dennis Pfeifer

March 20, 1956 - November 6, 2025

 

Lyle passed away on November 6th, 2025, in Seattle Washington at University of Washington Medical Center………..

Lyle’s seniority date is shown as 11-04-1985.  Lyle is survived by his wife Marlene, and by his children and their families.  A Celebration of Life event will be held November 15th at 2:00 PM at Mercer Creek Church located at 1410 N. Main Street Ellensburg, WA.

 

PCN memorial site  

 

 

https://www.brooksidefuneral.com/obituaries/Lyle-Dennis-Pfeifer?obId=46347410

Lyle Dennis Pfeifer Obituary

Lyle passed away on November 6th, 2025, in Seattle Washington at University of Washington Medical Center.

Lyle was born in Odessa, Washington on March 20, 1956, and raised in Marlin on his family’s wheat farm. Lyle attended Wilson Creek High School and went on to begin an illustrious career as a pilot. He first solo’d in 1974 in Pullman. He went on to attend Big Bend Community College where he obtained his flight training as well as earning his A&P (Airframe and Power Plant) license. He then went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in aerospace science from Central Washington University. While attending CWU, Lyle worked at Midstate Aviation as an aviation mechanic, where he met his future wife, Marlene. Her father owned and operated Midstate Aviation, training flight students. He went on to fly for Richardson Airways out of Yakima, Washington, and was later hired by Cascade Airways in 1984 and shortly after was hired by Republic Airways in November 1985. Republic soon merged with Northwest Airlines which later merged with Delta Airlines. In his Commercial airline career, he started flying the DC-9 and he always said that airplane was the closest thing to flying a super cub. He later moved to the Airbus 320 and then the Boeing 737 and ended his Commercial career on the Airbus 330. After retiring from Delta he flew corporate while also working as an aviation mechanic. He flew for over 50 years and recently earned the Wright Brothers Master Pilots Award. Lyle was much more than a pilot; he was husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. Many knew Lyle for being able to fix anything. He used his knowledge and skills to help so many people through his life. Lyle loved to cook and enjoyed preparing many Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners for all of the extended family.

Lyle is preceded by his father Ray Willard Pfeifer and mother Betty Jean Pfeifer. He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Marlene, children Mitchell (Natasha - grandchildren Miles and Amara), Matthew (Dakota), Brian (Daisy - grandchildren Maya, Graciela, Michael, and Gabriel), daughter Kaitlin, and unofficially adopted son Greg Johnson, his sister Marilyn Santangelo(Michael), and numerous nieces and nephews. He deeply loved his wife, children and grandchildren. Family was everything to him.

 

The Man, The Myth, The Legend will be deeply missed by all. Captain Pfeifer has been cleared for landing.

A Celebration of Life will be held November 15th 2025, at 2:00 pm at Mercer Creek Church located at 1410 N. Main Street Ellensburg, WA.

WA/DL Capt. Michael “Mike” Keith Magnell

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

WA/DL Capt. Michael “Mike” Keith Magnell

July 30, 1946 - September 23, 2025

 

 

Alaska is where he began his commercial flying career, and he will continue to fly the skies with the people he befriended both past and present over the past 50 years………….

Mike joined Western Airlines 11-08-1976 and retired with Delta Air Lines.  He is survived by his wife Iris Foster Magnell.

 

PCN memorial site

 

Source:  Nome Nugget, The (AK) - Thursday, November 6, 2025

Michael Keith Magnell was born on July 30, 1946 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He passed on September 23, 2025 in Orange County, California with his wife Iris and nephews Neal and Jim by his side. He lived a full and exciting life doing what he loved - flying.

Mike went to grade school in Long Beach, California and high school at Western High School in Anaheim, California. He earned his bachelor's degree at California State College in Long Beach. It was there that he decided what he wanted to do for a career - he was going to fly.

In 1966 Mike received his first flying lesson, and it became a lifelong passion. He quickly earned his private pilot, commercial, and instructor ratings in Long Beach. He taught other students how to fly from 1969 to 1971 before taking his first job hauling passengers and freight in Alaska. Mike was off to become an Alaska bush pilot!

Mike moved to Teller, Alaska in 1972. At the time about 200 people lived there, and air taxi owner Jim Isabell broke his arm while trying to hand prop an airplane. He needed a pilot, and at the age of 26 Mike was his guy. Mike wrote in his pilot logbook on March 14, 1972: "1st Flight in Alaska". He flew a Helio Courier airplane from village to village and to Nome for a year.

On a chance encounter, he walked into Nome's grocery store (at the time called the NC Store) and met Iris Foster. Iris would later recall that she heard there was a handsome pilot in town who had come all the way from Los Angeles. He asked her out, and Iris being shy said: "No." Iris' brother Richard had a get together in an airplane hangar shortly afterwards, and both Mike and Iris were re-acquainted. Richard sat between them mischievously chaperoning the event, and six months later they were married.

They lived in Fairbanks in 1973 where Mike flew for Pacific Alaska Airlines flying fire patrol in an Aero Commander. Then he got his big break and landed a job with Western Airlines in California. Mike and Iris built a house and a life together in Laguna Hills, California. They even raised a wonderful dog named Bandit to sit in as co-pilot from time to time.

In their spare time, they enjoyed many memorable trips to places like Elvis' Graceland and to the resort and hidden bunker for Congress called the Greenbriar. Internationally, they made a special trip to visit their nephew in England and took many trips to Mexico. One of Mike's favorite trips was flying family and friends to Catalina Island in his own airplane.

Mike particularly loved spending his vacations in Alaska flying for Foster Aviation in Nome. The airline was started by Iris' father Willie and operated by her brother Richard. Mike made many trips out to the Foster gold mine at Hannum Creek. One of his fondest memories was of smelling freshly baked bread and blueberry pie baked by Iris' mother, Jane.

Western Airlines was bought out by Delta Airlines, and Mike worked his way up to captain. Not one to sit still, Mike's idea of retirement was starting his own airplane ferrying business called "Transoceanic Aircraft Ferry." He flew over 200 airplanes all over the world to places like Senegal, Brazil, Namibia, Afghanistan, New Caledonia and Christmas Island. On one trip over the vast Pacific Ocean, Mike encountered mechanical issues and almost deployed the airplane's parachute system.

One of Mike's more unique experiences was flying jets out of Kabul, Afghanistan for Kam Air. He said whenever they flew into Baghdad, Iraq they could not land with the standard gradual descending glide path. Instead, to avoid potential rocket attacks, they did steep corkscrew descents.

Mike loved flying the Cessna 180's and 185's he owned. And when the opportunity to buy the Helio Courier airplane that he flew in Teller back in the 70's came up, he snatched it right up. It brought back a lot of good memories of the passengers he spent countless hours flying from village to village. And it brought a good laugh, too. When Mike had the helio restored, the airplane mechanic told him that there was hydraulic fluid all over under the floor of the plane. The fluid was in places that it should not have been. Upon further inspection, Mike said it was seal oil. Cans of it were notoriously known to tip over, and decades later it was still there!

Mike's contribution, passion, and dedication were recognized with two honors at the biggest gathering of aviation enthusiasts - the EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. The FAA presented Mike with the Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award. And AOPA (the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association) awarded him with a 50-year pin. For Mike, it was one of the happiest moments of his life.

He is preceded in death by his mother Peggy Sax and father Marion Magnell.

He is survived by his wife Iris (Foster) Magnell, sister Jackie Magnell-Thrasher, brother Kent Magnell, and many nieces and nephews.

Mike will make another flight to Hannum Creek, Alaska where his ashes will be buried at the family plot. Alaska is where he began his commercial flying career, and he will continue to fly the skies with the people he befriended both past and present over the past 50 years.

 

Also, another online article available at (with pictures)

https://www.ocregister.com/2008/02/03/reader-report-an-airline-pilot-in-afghanistan/

NWA Capt. Dennis Erwin Lange

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

Military veteran, NWA Capt. Dennis Erwin Lange

December 11, 1937  ~  November 5, 2025

 

Dennis Erwin Lange's life was a journey of love, sacrifice, and service…….

Denny joined Northwest Airlines 06-21-1965.  He is survived by his wife Gloria, and by his children and their families.  Services will be held in Arizona:  November 18^th at 11:00AM - 12:00PM,

Mt. Zion Lutheran Church, 8902 W Deer Valley Rd., Peoria, AZ 85382.

 

PCN memorial site

 

https://www.heritagefuneralchapels.com/obituaries/Dennis-Lange?obId=46344097

 

Dennis Erwin Lange

Dennis "Denny" Erwin Lange, a man of profound faith and valor, completed his earthly journey on

November 5, 2025, in Glendale, Arizona. Born on December 11, 1937, Denny's life was a

Testament to his loving, intelligent, and kind spirit. He was a beloved husband, cherished father,

treasured grandfather, respected brother, and a true friend to all who were blessed to know him.

 

Denny's dedication to his family was unwavering. He is survived by his devoted wife of many

years, Gloria Lange, and their remarkable children: Scott Lange, Troy Lange, Tracey Lange and her

spouse Robyn Cox, Tammy Dee and her spouse Stephen, Philip Denaro Jr. and his spouse

Katherine, and Gloria Coppola and her spouse Vincent. Denny's legacy continues through his

adoring grandchildren—Taylor, Trevor, Heather (and spouse Nathan), Amanda (and spouse

Mitchell), Christopher (and spouse Victoria), Samantha, Nathan, Philip III, Chloe, Grace (and

Spouse Holden), Taylor (and fiancée Chelsea), Christopher (and spouse Maddison), Genna (and

spouse Tate), Philip, Vina, Frankie, and Francesca—and great-grandchildren Abigail, Axton, Clara,

Casey, and Quinn. His life was further enriched by the love of his siblings, Karen Koch and her

spouse Clarence, and David Lange and his spouse Janice. Denny was preceded in death by his

father, Erwin Lange, and his mother, Ellen Lange-Nelson.

 

A proud attendee of the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, after which he

continued his education through the US Navy's flight school, in Pensacola, Florida. Denny served

his country with honor and distinction as a Lieutenant Commander and Helicopter Pilot in the

United States Navy. Following his military service, Denny continued to soar to great heights as an

airline Captain for Northwest Airlines, where he dedicated 33 years of exemplary service, in

which his courage and skill were instrumental in flying troops to Desert Storm, earning him the

prestigious Civilian Desert Sheild and Desert Storm Medal.

 

Denny's life was deeply rooted in his Christian faith, which guided his every action and

interaction. He lived by the principles of love and service, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts

of those he encountered. His interests were as diverse as his skills—whether he was enjoying a

round of golf, indulging in his passion for hunting, immersing himself in a book, or spending time

with his beloved horses, Denny embraced life with enthusiasm and grace.

 

As we gather to celebrate Denny's life, we are reminded of the words of Matthew 5:9,"Blessed

are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God." Denny was indeed a peacemaker, a

gentle soul who brought harmony and understanding wherever he went. His memory will be

cherished, and his legacy will live on through the lives of those he touched. We take solace in the

knowledge that Denny now rests in the loving embrace of our Lord, his faith made sight at last.

Dennis Erwin Lange's life was a journey of love, sacrifice, and service. As we bid farewell to this

Extraordinary man, we do so with hearts full of gratitude for the time we shared with him. We

celebrate a life well-lived and a race well-run. Until we meet again, Denny, rest in peace in the

glorious presence of our Creator.

 

WA/DL F/A Phyllis Miller, wife of WA/DL Capt. Jerry Miller

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

WA/DL F/A Phyllis Myers-Miller, wife of WA/DL Capt. Jerry Miller

March 5, 1941 ~ September 2, 2025

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Phyllis Miller onSeptember 2nd. Phyllis succumbed to squamous cell carcinoma cancer between the esophagus and the stomach. She was 85 years old. Phyllis and her husband, Jerry, moved into Whidbey Green in 2012 renting a house before buying a house right next door the following year. They have been married for 44 years. Phyllis was a flight attendant for Western Airlines from 1977 until 1997. She was also an author of note, first writing a book of stories and poems about her family including six siblings growing up very poor in Missouri, called “Precious Memories ,” and later penning a novel called, “Abby, Rags & Me. ” At her request, she was cremated and buried at sea between Coupeville and Port Townsend in a ceremony from the stern of the Washington State Ferry, Salish, on September 21st . We will miss seeing her taking her walks around the neighborhood with her dog, Darby. PCN memorial site   +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

NWA/DL Capt. Dorian Dybas

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

NWA/DL Capt. Dorian Dybas

January 13, 1954 - October 22, 2025

 

A skilled and respected pilot and instructor, Dorian flew for several commercial airlines, including General Motors Aviation, Northwest, and Delta……………….

Dorian Michael Dybas joined Northwest Airlines 08-19-1988 and retired with Delta Air Lines based Detroit.  Dorian is survived by his wife Darlene, and by their two sons Zachary and Gabriel.

 

PCN memorial site

 

Funeral Arrangements by

Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services

https://obituaries.record-eagle.com/obituary/dorian-dybas-1093314126

 

 

Dorian Dybas Obituary

Suttons Bay, Michigan - Dorian Dybas, 71, of Suttons Bay, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2025, following a courageous battle with cancer.

 

Born on January 13, 1954, in Detroit, Michigan, Dorian was the son of Leonard and Frances (Sitko) Dybas. From an early age, he displayed an adventurous spirit, an interest that would later define both his career and his joy in life.

 

Dorian married the love of his life, Darlene (Hanson) Dybas, and together they built a beautiful life filled with laughter, faith, and love. They were blessed with two sons, Zachary and Gabriel, of whom he was endlessly proud.

 

A skilled and respected pilot and instructor, Dorian flew for several commercial airlines, including General Motors Aviation, Northwest, and Delta. His professionalism and steady demeanor in the flight deck earned him the respect of colleagues and passengers alike. Beyond his aviation career, he found fulfillment in the simple joys of life—spending time outdoors, tending to his bees, and perfecting his golf swing.

 

Dorian was a devoted member of St. Michael's Catholic Church in Suttons Bay and a proud member of the Knights of Columbus, where his humility and good humor were cherished by all who knew him.

 

Known by many as a comic genius, Dorian had impeccable timing and could lift the spirits of any room. His friends and family often remarked that his laughter and wit were matched only by his kindness and modesty. A true gentleman, he lived with grace, gratitude, and quiet strength. He was also a loyal fan of his teams—the Detroit Lions —never losing hope for next season.

 

He is survived by his devoted wife, Darlene, their two sons, Zachary and Gabriel, and his brother and sister, Susan and Brian Dybas. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Frances Dybas.

 

A visitation for Dorian will take place on Thursday, November 6 from 4-7 pm at Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home. A short prayer service will take place at 7 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Michael's Catholic Church in Suttons Bay on Friday, November 7 at 11 with visitation one hour prior.