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This
page is dedicated to those former employees of Hughes
Airwest that have passed away. If you know of
former RW employees who are no longer with us, we would
appreciate any details you may have available.
tom@hughesairwest.com
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A
special tribute to
Irving
T. Tague
Click
on above image for a larger view
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The
airline world along with those of us
who worked for Hughes Airwest during
the early and mid 70's lost a true
friend on November 21, 1991 when Irv Tague
passed away at the young age of 63. Our
special "thank you" to Russ Stephenson
for writing the very poignant "Tribute
to Irv" that follows.
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Tribute
to Irv
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Irv
Tague was born a Westerner,
in Washington State. As
he matured, his experience took
him to the East via Alaska,
where he was deeply involved
in scheduling and economic analysis
with Pan American World Airways.
Irv
was a quiet, intense, private
man, who was not given to chatter
about himself, or much else.
When Tom Bailey asked
me to help him put together
a memorial to Irv, I had to
talk to someone who had been
personally involved with events
that brought Irv to Hughes Airwest.
Fortunately,
I was able to reach John Eichner,
a retired partner in a highly
regarded DCA transportation
consulting firm, Simat, Helliesen
and Eichner (SH&E), who
were responsible for pairing
Irv and RW.
The story
begins, for the purpose of this
tribute to Irv, with Irv's extensive
work with Pan American World
Airways, primarily on scheduling,
where he came to the attention
of the SH&E partners. John
Eichner told me that Irv was
one of the best airline schedulers
he ever knew, a talent Irv would
use to great advantage with
Northeast Airlines and Hughes
Airwest as well as Pan Am.
SH&E
had the Hughes organization
as clients, so when Northeast
Airlines was purchased by Howard
Hughes, and there was a need
for a variety of management
improvements, Jim Austin - the
new Hughes' selected president
working with SH& E, had
Irv brought in as consultant
to improve scheduling in particular.
Subsequently, Irv's
excellent work at NEA led SH&E
to ask Irv to set up a West
Coast office in San Mateo, a
geographic decision not then
related to Hughes Airwest. However,
while that was being developed,
the Hughes organization had
its problems with the three-airline
merger it had purchased.
All
of the CAB and SEC work had
not been finalized in Washington,
among other things. Almost
all of you will have memory
of some of the problems to be
faced closer home.
Chester
Davis, Hughes top attorney,
asked SH&E for help to get
things in order. As a
result of this request, Irv
was shifted to San Mateo, but
for the RW assignment rather
than to set up an independent
SH&E office.
Irv's
excellent grasp of the problems
that needed attention led to
his selection as General Manager
by the Hughes directors.
One
of the descriptions I first
encountered when we got to San
Mateo was of Irv...."a
skinny, quiet little guy who
had an office down the hall.
We sure didn't think he
was going to be the Boss!"
This was one person's observation;
mine was that Irv developed
respect in a hurry.
Irv
showed his savvy, continuing
to work with Nat Simat and John
Eichner as consultants in the
development of RW through critical
management, equipment and route
changes. Simat, a former
CAB staff member, knew the Washington
ropes, as did Eichner. The
two of them, Irv and SH&E
were a good team. Irv
had the vision of what he wanted
and needed, and SH&E knew
how to help with the Washington,
DC regulatory problems.
Irv
was an interesting man for whom
to work. He was a very
private individual, had out-of-the-norm
working habits, and gave considerable
authority to his staff to work
for the objectives he had in
mind. He was not a personnel
man, but received substantial
support from his assistant,
Dave Hinson, a top pilot and
excellent manager and advisor.
In
my opinion, Irv - working with
Nat Simat, deserves the credit
for the development of Hughes
Airwest to be a major, successful
regional airline. He had a good
staff to assist him. In
addition, seeing the beginning
of a turnaround, which continued,
brought new hope to employees
who began to improve the operation
and service quality with new
pride and energy.
When
Irv left RW, he had in mind
launching Midway Airlines, a
major change on the Chicago
aviation skyline, which had
been ruled primarily by United
Air Lines with a vested interest
in only one major Chicago airport.
Dave Hinson, later to be FAA
Administrator, joined Irv and
Nat Simat, and Midway Airlines
became a successful and respected
airline under Irv.
What
a shame Irv's drive and competence
was cut short. How fortunate
we at RW were to have been associated
with him in the excellent airline
he developed, with the help
of all of us and the support
of the Hughes name.
Russell
V. Stephenson
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Recent
Losses
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The
only negative part of maintaining this website
is learning of the loss of another friend
and fellow employee from those great days
we all shared together. Unfortunately,
it comes with the territory so, in an attempt
to keep everyone informed of our losses,
this section of "In Memory" will
list any recent deaths and any available
details as sent to us.
Please don't assume that someone else sent us the information, we would much rather receive 35 emails about the same passing than to receive none at all.
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Chris Bickelman
Reservations
Dec 23, 2011
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Chris
Bickelman was born on December 8, 1921 in Yonkers, NY to Charles and Margaret
Foley. After a brief illness, she passed
away peacefully in the early morning hours of December 15, 2011 at the age of
90.
Chris began
her airline career in Albany, NY in 1942 with Canadian Colonial Airways, a
career that was to span 5 decades. Chris
also worked for both American and Eastern.
Along the way, she met Robert W.
(Bob) Bickelman who was working for TWA at the Albany airport and they were
married in 1946. She retired from Hughes Airwest in 1979.
Chris and Bob along with their five children moved to California in 1962. Bob continued his career with TWA and Chris
found her way to Pacific Air Lines where she worked in reservations. Bob passed away in 1996 just two months shy
of their 50th wedding anniversary.
Chris has
been living with her daughter Christina in Tucson for the past 14 years. She
often sat on the front patio where she enjoyed watching the planes circling to
land at Tucson Intl. Chris once
commented to her daughter that if women had been allowed to be pilots back when
she started her airline career, she would have jumped at the chance.
Chris
requested the family to not have any memorial service on her passing. Remembrances can be sent to her daughter
Christina at waterdragon52@q.com. A beautiful tribute to Chris done by her grandson can be seen
on YouTube. Just click on the link
below.
A TRIBUTE TO CHRIS BICKELMAN ON THE
OCCASION OF HER 90TH BIRTHDAY
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Walter A. Wellinger
Flight Ops - Captain
Dec 22, 2011
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Walter A. Wellinger, 80 of
Kihei on Maui in Hawaii passed away on December 22, 2011 at home under
hospice care. Walter was born on December 25, 1930 in Pittsburg, PA.
Family and friends are invited to attend services that will be held on Saturday, January 14, 2012 at Trinity Episcopal Church By the Sea, 100 Kulanikakoi St., Kihei at 2P.
Walter is survived by his loving wife, Jeanne, devoted son Bill and his
sister Kay Hunt as well as many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in
death by his daughter Tracy Wellinger-Petrie.
Walter served his
country as a navy pilot then became a commercial airline pilot with
Pacific Air Lines in 1959. Walt retired from Republic in 1986 and moved
to Maui in 1987. He volunteered for South Maui citizen patrol for many
years.
Donations in memory of Walt may be made to Hospice Maui, 400 Mahalani St., Wailuku, Hawaii 96973.
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William E. Cooke
Flight Ops - Captain
Dec 17, 2011
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William
W. COOKE November 6, 1936-December 17, 2011 Bill was born November 6,
1935 on a snowy day in Weiser, Idaho to parents George T and Alice M
Cooke. He graduated from Belle vue High School in 1954 and in 1958 he
graduated with honors in Me chanical Engineering from the University of
Idaho. His interest in flying showed up early when he earned his pilot's
license at the age of 16. He later became a 747 captain during his 34
years with the airlines. Bill loved to ski and was a member of the
University of Idaho ski team where he quali fied for the NCAA Ski
Champion ships. He enjoyed teaching fami ly and friends how to ski, sail
and fly. Bill was an avid golfer and a long-time member of Meridian
Valley Country Club. A lifelong Episcopalian, he served as an altar boy
from age 8 to 18. "Go Vandals" was often heard in Bill's presence as he
was a strong supporter and benefactor of the University of Idaho. He,
along with his sister Martha, established the George T and Alice M Cooke
university scholarship. Bill was a loyal husband, father, grandfather
and friend and he will be greatly missed. He is survived by his wife
Patricia, children Mary Martha (Ray) Thompson, Catherine (Jose) Calderon
and Gary (Margaret), 10 grandchildren and sister, Martha (Keith)
Klaveano. A service will be held at 1pm, Tues, Dec 27 at St. James
Episcopal Church, 24447 94th Ave S, Kent. Donations may be made to
Northwest Parkinson's Foundation, 400 Mercer St., Suite 401, Seattle,
WA, 98709, George T and Alice M Cooke Scholarship Endowment, PO Box
443147, Moscow, ID, 83844 or St. James Episcopal Church, 24447 94th Ave
S., Kent, WA 98030.
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Jack D. Northcott
Flight Ops - Captain
Nov 19, 2011
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YAKIMA - Jack Dean Northcott, 82, of Yakima, passed away Saturday, November 19th, 2011.
Jack was born in Yakima on March 31, 1930 to Donald R. and Priscilla
D. Northcott. He attended school in Yakima until his sophomore year. At
that time his father went to work for the Naches Forest Service and Jack
went to Naches High School, graduating in 1948. Jack then attended
Washington State College and worked four summers as a forest service
guard. Though he didn't graduate from college he had enough credits to
be accepted by the Naval Aviation Cadet Program. He won his "Wings of
Gold" in 1952. He spent 5 years flying many types of airplanes, ending
his Navy career instructing in the P5M2 Seaplanes. He then went to work
for West Coast Airlines in 1957, and he married the love of his life
Marilyn M. Siems. He flew 25 years with the airlines, totaling a little
over 28,000 Navy and airline hours. West Coast Airlines merged with
Bonanza and Pacific, becoming Hughes Airwest. Later, Republic bought
Hughes Airwest, and then Northwest bought Republic. Jack retired from
Northwest Airlines.
He loved animals, especially dogs and horses. He and Marilyn raised
appaloosas and buckskins. At one time they had a matched pair of
buckskins that frequently won them first place and blue ribbons whenever
ridden in parades.
Jack placed his faith in Christ, trusting in His death on his
behalf, that he might have eternal life. He is survived by his wife,
Marilyn Northcott; daughter and son-in-law, Debra and Steven Dyk;
granddaughter Carrie Cavanaugh, her husband Mike, and son Job; grandson
Dave Dyk, his wife Heidi, and children Jonah and Esther; brother and
sister-in-law, Robert and Sandra Northcott; their sons Mark and Justin
Northcott; and their respective families.
There will be a viewing available on Monday, November 28, from 4-8
p.m. at Keith & Keith Funeral Home. A memorial service will be
conducted in the Naches Presbyterian Church on Tuesday, November 29,
2011 at 2:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to the
Pegasus Project. These can be made online at:
http://www.pegasusrides.com/, or mailed to: 5808 A Summitview Ave. #324;
Yakima, WA 98908 (Phone: 509-965-6990).
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Larry Decker
V.P. Marketing
Nov 10, 2011
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LARRY
DECKER June 27, 1923-Nov. 10, 2011 Larry Decker, age 88, was born in
Lewis, Iowa, to Danielle Boone Decker and Laura Decker. He grew up in
several midwestern farming communities and as a result of difficult
economic times dropped out of school in ninth grade. He started several
jobs to help support his family. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II
and famously protected his "borrowed" Japanese horse named, "Tojo" with
his battle helmet during an air raid on Papau, New Guinea. He returned
to the U.S., got his GED and continued his business studies at schools
including Stanford University. He was very instrumental in the airline
industry with executive positions including Bonanza, Air West and World
Airways. In 1982, he founded Sunworld International Airways in Las
Vegas, and served as its CEO and president. Larry was the director of
the Greater Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce in 1985. In 1963, he founded
the Las Vegas chapter of SKAL International, an international
association of tour and travel professionals that he continued to
participate with for the rest of his life. After his retirement from
Sunworld, he was an active real estate agent in the Las Vegas area. He
moved to Smyrna, Ga. four years ago to be close to family. Larry was
married for 40 years to the love of his life, Beverly Lou Decker, who
predeceased him in 1995. He was also predeceased by his son, Randy
Decker; as well as seven brothers and sisters. He is survived by his
son, Douglas Decker and his wife, Lori; daughter, Debra Lee Massing and
her husband, Larry. He is also survived by three grandchildren that he
adored, Greg Decker, Amy Decker and Tyler Decker (Massing). Survivors
and loved ones also include brothers, Robert "Bob" Decker and his wife,
Margaret, and William "Bill" Decker and his wife, Ruth; as well many
beloved nieces, nephews and grandnieces and grandnephews. Per his
wishes, we will be having a "going away" party to send him off to his
next incredible journey. The family would like to invite his friends to
join them 4-8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 19, at 2149 Fountain Springs Drive,
Henderson. Online guest book www.westcobbfuneralhome.com
Published in Las Vegas Review-Journal
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Ursula Hobgood
Stations
Sept 26, 2011
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Ursula
Hobgood Passed away peacefully at home in Redwood City. Ursula was born
in Wiesbaden Germany on March 11 1926. She lived through WW II and
moved to the United States in 1958. She worked many years in the airline
industry and later owned and ran Bel Mateo travel in San Mateo. She is
survived by her husband Hans K. Haselbach and son Michael Hobgood. She
also has two sisters, Brigitte, Christine and brother Peter who are
still in Germany. Ursula also has several grandchildren numerous nieces
and nephews who will miss her dearly. To those who knew her she was
always immaculately dressed and was very gracious to everyone she met.
May she rest in peace. As she requested, no funeral is planned.
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Paul Beach Sr.
Flt Ops - Captain
Sept 25, 2011
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Paul
A. Beach, of Phoenix, took his last flight on September 25, 2011 after a brief
illness. He was born on September 21, 1922 in St Joseph, Missouri and grew up
in Missouri, Indiana and California. In May, 1941 while a college freshman, his
National Guard unit was called to active duty. He was selected to be a part of
the enlisted pilots program fulfilling his dream to fly. He graduated from
flight school on August 5, 1942 at Lubbock Air Field, Lubbock, Texas in the
class of 42G. His first assignment was ferrying aircraft to foreign and
domestic bases. He also flew hospital evacuations across the United States. In
January, 1945 he was assigned to the 1345th AAFBU at Kurmitola, India. He flew
75 missions over the Hump into China in B-24's (C-109) and C-154's. He told many stories of
adventure, flights and even tigers running through camp. His most memorable
trip was air lifting the 94th Chinese Army General Staff from Cheng Tao to
Shanghai on VJ Day, the first time in seven years an American airplane had
landed there. After the war he began his career as a commercial air line pilot,
first with Western airlines, and after a brief recall for the Berlin Airlift,
returned to flying with Bonanza Air Lines serving as Director of
Flight Operations and Chief Pilot. Bonanza became Air West, then Hughes Air West, and then Republic Airlines. He retired in September,
1982, logging 28,500 flight hours in his long career. Paul was a friend to many
and would help anyone who needed it. He enjoyed traveling, hunting, fishing,
hiking and tennis throughout his life, even playing tennis through age 87,
winning many Senior Olympics in his 60s and 70s. He spent his retirement in
Phoenix and Munds Park, AZ with his wife, Janice, and later took care of Janice
as she fought Alzheimer's disease. Until his illness, Paul took care of Janice,
feeding and comforting her twice daily for the last ten years. Paul was
preceded in death by his mother, Geraldine Turner, his son Paul Allen Beach and his daughter, Dr. Diane
K. Beach. He is survived by his wife Janice Berg Beach, his daughter Karen
(Steve) Larsen of Mesa, AZ, his daughter in law Kathy Beach of Post, TX, and
Janice's children Lynette (Mike) Berg Robe of Studio City, CA, Dr.Howard
(Peggy) Berg of Amarillo, TX and Richard (Judy) Berg of Burnsville, MN. He has
eleven grandchildren and six great grandchildren.
A memorial
service will be held
Saturday,
October 1st at 3:00pm
Hawthorn Court, 13822 S. 46th Place, Phoenix 85044
In lieu offlowers, donations may be made
to the Alzheimer's Association
Arrangements
entrusted to Tempe Mortuary.
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Raymond Paul Primm
SEA Res
Aug 23, 2011
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Ray was in the US marine Corp serving at Camp David doing presidential duties. He worked briefly for Northwest Airlines in Washington DC in the early 60's and moved from Washington DC to SEA in the mid 60's where he hired on with West Coast Airlines. He started in reservations and became a senior agent, eventually went over to the ticket counter after Northwest Airlines acquired Republic in 1981. He retired and moved around a bit until poor health settled him in Parker, Az. Ray lived in Parker for about 20 years where he passed away the 23Aug11. Ray loved animals and especially cats. He had quite the menagerie of cats he cared for.
He is survived by a sister and brother in Ohio and a niece and nephew in San Diego.
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Mike Taylor
Stations
July 23, 2011
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Michael Wayne Taylor
passed away on July 23, 2011 at the age of 62. He lived in Maricopa, AZ and had been a Station Agent for RW, RC, and NW after being hired in 1968. Mike worked in LAS, DEN, DTW, and PHX. His father was Capt Wayne Taylor who started with BL in the
50's. Mike was preceeded in death
by his parents and his sister.
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Wayne Colemere
Stations
June 10, 2011
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Wayne Colemere passed away on June 10, 2011 of Pulmonary
Fibrosis. He began his career with Hughes Airwest on July 1, 1973 as an agent in Salt Lake
City as a Stations Agent. He also worked in Portland, Yuma, Burbank, San Diego, LA,
Minneapolis and Memphis. Home Base was and still is Phoenix. Wayne was married to Barbara for
41 years. They have 3 children, Gary, Bobbi Ann and Jim and three
wonderful grandchildren, Avery, Cade and Connor. Services were held for Wayne in Chandler, AZ on June 18, 2011
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Mark Sturgill
Flight Ops - Captain
June 1, 2011
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Sturgill Mark G. Age 63 of Commerce Twp. died June 1, 2011. Beloved husband of 43 years to Colleen. Loving father of: Daron (Julie) Sturgill and Erika Sturgill. Grandfather of: Gabriella, Hailey, Mitchell, Lauren, and Bodie. Brother of James (Latrelle) Sturgill. Mr. Sturgill served as a Flight Instructor in the United States Air Force for seven years, and then became a commercial airline pilot beginning with Hughes Air West, Republic Airlines and Northwest Airlines where he recently retired. Mr. Sturgill was also an avid golfer and was a member of Edgewood Country Club. A celebration of life will be held at the family's home on Saturday, June 11, 2011 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Serving the family Lynch & Sons Funeral Home, Walled Lake. Memorials to University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center appreciated. Condolences at www.LynchFAMILYFuneralDirectors.com
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Ralph G. Kann
Flight Ops - Captain
April 6, 2011
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Ralph
G. Kann, Jr. passed away peacefully at home on April 6, 2011. He was 89
years old just one month shy of his 90th birthday. Ralph was born in
Santa Cruz and resided there for the rest of his life. Ralph was
preceded in death by his parents, Ralph G., Sr., Louise Mohring Kann and
his three sisters: Georgianna [Doddie] Knopf, Selma [Sally] Cavender,
Wilma [Willie] Weeks, brother-in-law George Cavender and dear family
friend Cristobal Sana. He will be dearly missed by his beloved wife
Miriam Votaw Kann, brothers-in-law Robert Knopf, Robert Weeks, numerous
nieces and nephews, their families and many friends.
Graduating from Santa Cruz High School in 1939, Ralph enlisted in the United States Army/ AirForce. He graduated from the AirForce Advanced Flying Class of 1943
in Luke Field, Arizona. Ralph then served as a pilot of C-47 transport
planes in the Aleutian Islands. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying
Cross, Asiatic Pacific Service and American Campaign Medals for his
service to his country and was discharged as a Major in 1946. For the
next 35 years he was a pilot for Southwest/Hughes Airwest Airlines,
retiring 1981. It was while he was working for the airlines that he met
the love of his life Miriam and they were married in 1967.
In 2008
Ralph was honored by the Santa Cruz Old Timer Association as their
Santa Cruz Old Timer of the Year for his commitment and service to the
City.
Graveside services will be conducted at Santa Cruz Memorial,
1927 Ocean Street on Saturday, May 21, 2011 at 10:30 when military
honors will be conferred.
The family would like to extend their
heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to Ralph's caregivers, Peachy and
Arnel Bien, for their 2 years of special care. And to Hospice of Santa
Cruz County for their care in the last month of his life.
In lieu of flowers, donations Hospice of Santa Cruz County or to your favorite charity would be appreciated.
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Frank R McDonald
Flight Ops - Captain
Mar 27, 2011
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Captain Frank Ronald McDONALD Age 92, passed away
peacefully in his sleep on March 27th. At his side was Beatrice (Bea), his
high-school sweetheart and wife of 67 years, along with other loving members of
his family. Frank was born on May 9, 1918, in Seattle, to Nellie and Joseph
McDonald. His family moved to Bothell when he was 12 and he graduated from
Bothell High School in 1936. He went on to the University of Washington,
knowing even then that he wanted to be a pilot. However, his career of choice
came sooner than anticipated; when the U.S. entered World War II he left
college to join the navy and was trained as an aviator. Frank was assigned to
the Pacific Fleet and distinguished himself in combat as a dive bomber during
the Battle of the Coral Sea and in the Southwest Pacific with Air Group 12's
Fighter Squadron. For his "outstanding courage, daring airmanship, and
devotion to duty," Frank was awarded the Purple Heart, the
Navy Cross, and twice, the Distinguished Flying Cross. Frank left the Navy with
the rank of Captain, returned to Seattle, married Bea, and went to work with
his brother Leonard at the family business, McDonald and Company. However,
Frank couldn't stay out of the sky for long. After two years, he accepted a job
with West Coast Airlines and started a 30-year career as a
commercial pilot, becoming a captain for the second time. One notable event
occurred when a man hijacked the plane Frank was co-piloting and tried to
duplicate D.B. Cooper's feat by demanding money and then parachuting from the
plane when in flight. This time, thanks to radio communications from Frank, who
flew the plane and kept authorities informed as the pilot dealt with the
hijacker, the police were waiting for the parachutist when he landed. The
Seattle Times described Frank as a "cool cat" for his calm handling
of this incident. In addition to flying, Frank had many other interests. He and
Bea enjoyed dancing, going to the symphony, and travelling throughout the
United States and Europe. On three occasions they visited Frank's brother
Joseph who was Dean of Medicine at the American University Hospital in Beirut,
Lebanon. He also enjoyed working on projects around his house, first on Princeton
Way in Seattle and later in Medina. Then when he and Bea moved to Kirkland,
Frank was an active member of their condominium association. His biggest
undertaking was building a house. In 1952 he purchased property at Tulare
Beach, north of Seattle, and built the house where the Frank McDonald family
would spend every summer and where a 4th of July reunion would be held each
year. Frank's family and relatives have many fond memories of these times spent
together. He is preceded in death by his mother, father, and three brothers,
George, Leonard, and Joseph. He is survived by his wife Bea, children Doug,
Dean and Marilyn, 4 grandchildren, 1 great-grandchild, and many nieces and
nephews.
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Jack H. O"Dell
Dir of Qty Cntrl/Engineering
Mar 21, 2011
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Jack O"Dell, 86, loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend
completed his earthly life on March 21, 2011 in Chandler, AZ. Born June
29, 1924 in Salt Lake City, UT. Served in US Navy during World War II
as a Quartermaster from 1942 - 1945 aboard the USS St. Lo and USS
Kalinin Bay. In 1966 moved to Tempe, AZ. Jack retired from Republic
Airlines and predecessors after 50 years of service. Jack is survived by
his wife Nancy Morgan O'Dell; son, Garry (Lolly) O'Dell, daughters;
Dianne (Robert) Werber; Becky (Douglas) Gillespie; Annette (Michael)
Larsen, 10 grandchildren and 30 great-grandchildren; sister Twylia
Allred, niece Patti Johnson, and nephew, Jack Allred. In Celebration of
his life, there will be a Visitation from 5-8pm, Tuesday, March 29, with
a Funeral Service at 11am, Wednesday, March 30 at Whitney & Murphy
Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix. Interment will follow
at 1:00PM, at the National Memorial Cemetery of AZ, 23029 N. Cave Creek
Road, Phoenix. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Hospice of
the Valley, The Dobson House, 1188 N. Dobson Road, Chandler, AZ
85224-4004
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Grant Shellenberger
Stations
March 16, 2011
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Grant Shellenberger was hired by West Coast Airlines in
1967. He retired from NWA after spending the greatest part of his airline
career in Seattle.
He was 65 when he died on March 16, 2011. He was born
on March 18, 1945 in Colorado Springs, CO. He attended Shadle Park High
School in Spokane, WA where he was on the Varsity wrestling team.
In 1963 he enlisted in the Army Reserve for a 6 year stint.
Grant's interest included classic cars, music and
photography. He was among the first to experiment with and successfully
design holographic and laser photography as an art form.
He is survived by his two daughters, Gina Saville and Amy
Shellenberger, two grandchildren, Garrett, and Gavin Saville and Grant's only
sibling, Gael Shellenberger.
A memorial is planned for Saturday, May 28, 2011 @ 3:00PM at
a park near Alki Beach in West Seattle.
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James M. Senstad
Crew Scheduling
Feb 12, 2011
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James Morris Senstad was born on the 30th of August 1927 in Greybull, Wyoming, the only son of railroader Leif J. Senstad and Edith V. (Shotwell) Senstad and brother to Mabel Jean LeDuc of Greybull, Wyoming and Marilyn McDonald of Thermopolis, Wyoming, all of whom preceeded him in death. "Big Jim" as he was affectionately known to family and friends passed on February 12, 2011 at his home. Jim suffered a stroke on January 13 of this year. He is survived by his wife, Stella K. Senstad and his four children, James R. of Phoenix, Susan (Cox) of Yorba Linda, California, Signe (Nall) of Spokane, Washington, Roxie (Sewell) of Phoenix, three son-in-laws, seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. At 21, Jim was initiated into the B.P.O.E. in Greybull. At 24, he was elected to the Elks highest office, that of Exhalted Ruler. He is the youngest member in Elks history to hold this esteemed office. He was the first Exhalted Ruler of the newly formed Lodge# 1908 in Worland, Wyoming. Big Jim fell in love with airplanes and flying when as a 5 year old child he took his first ride into the sky with a barnstormer in the open cockpit of a Ford Trimotor. Jim loved everything connected with the sky: birds, clouds, stars, sun and moon. Big Jim began his airline career at the age of 18 for Challenger Airline in his hometown of Greybull. Jim and his family moved from Bakersfield, California to Phoenix in December of 1968 to begin his career as a crew scheduler for Hughes Airwest. Jim retired from Northwest Airlines after 24 years of dedicated service. He worked in the airline industry for 47 years. Jim was a long time member of The Deer Valley Light and Life Church.
A memorial was be held on Saturday, February 19 at 1:00pm at The Deer Valley Light and Life Church in Phoenix.
Big Jim leaves a legacy of love, laughter and faith to his family. His love of music, poetry, dancing, singing and joke telling will never be forgotten. Jim was a man with a heart made for loving and shoulders made to cry on. He will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him, but none more than Stella, his bride of 62 years. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Hospice of the Valley in Big Jim's name. Info at www.hov.org
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George Castle
Captain
Jan 30, 2011
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V. George CASTLE (aka Captain Wunerful) George Castle, a longtime resident of Mercer Island, WA, left us to join his beloved wife on January 31, 2011 at age 90 - just two weeks shy of his 91st birthday. George was born on February 14, 1920 in Fort Wayne, Indiana to Vern and Ruth Castle. He attended school in Fort Wayne, graduating from South Side High School. He went on to attend the University of Michigan where he met the love of his life and future wife, Virginia. George joined the Navy at the beginning of WWII where he learned to fly. During the war he was not only a flight instructor but flew cargo in the North Atlantic as well as from Seattle to Alaska. He returned to school after the war but was lured west to Boise, Idaho to fly for a small airline some of his friends were starting. He intended to stay just for the summer and return to Michigan to begin medical school, however, once there, he couldn't believe you could have so much fun AND get paid for it.He never returned to medical school and the rest is history. During his career he flew for Empire, West Coast and Hughes Airwest Airlines, retiring in 1980. His airline career moved the family to Spokane where he learned to ski and spent summers at Priest Lake in Idaho. They moved to Mercer Island in 1960 and cemented his love of skiing at Crystal Mountain and Schweitzer Mountain Ski area. After retirement George and Ginny spent their winters at Schweitzer where he was one of the founders of the Prime Timers Ski Club. He skied into his early 80's and loved the mountain and all of his wonderful friends there. For all of you skiers out there, remember that any sunny day on the slopes is what he called a "GLORIOSKI" kind of day. George loved life and all the joys it had to give. His family, friends, travel, woodworking, skiing, practical jokes and his strong faith gave him much joy in life. He loved people and made a new friend every time he walked out the door. George is survived by his children, Marti Castle-Bickford (Willard), Christina Eng (Hunter), George (Pam Gunther), Tom (Mary Goodfellow), and Libby Wotipka (Dick), his sister Ruthie Groves of Ft. Wayne, Indiana, and grandchildren Brandy Castle, Laura, Elissa and Wylie Eng, Jake, Nick and Matthew Wotipka and Cordelia Bickford. When people would tell George to have ' a nice day', his reply was always 'you have a nice forever'. And we know he is doing just that. A memorial service will be held on Friday, February 4 at 1:00pm at the Mercer Island Covenant Church on Mercer Island with a reception following. All are welcome to sign George's guest book on line at www.bonneywatson.com.
Published in The Seattle Times on February 3, 2011
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William V. Lovelace
Captain
Jan 28, 2011
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Captain Bill Lovelace passed away on January 28, 2011 in Victorville, CA, he was born in Dayton, OH in 1938. Bill served in the US Army where he spent considerable time in Korea before joining Pacific Air Lines in 1965. After surviving all of the mergers and acquisitions, Bill retired from NWA in 1991.
In addition to his flying career, Bill was also an accomplished magician known to many as "Orsini." He performed many magic shows over the years in the Bay Area and in the Phoenix area including many events for the Hughes Airwest Employees Club.
Services for Bill were held at the Victor Valley
Mortuary in Victorville, California on February 9, 2011 He was buried
with full military honors at Riverside National Cemetery on February 9, 2011. He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Clarice,
who was also a Hughes Airwest/Republic/Northwest employee.
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Capt. Ivan Dorey
Captain
Jan 23, 2011
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Ivan A. Dorey, loving
husband of Frances, died at home on Sunday, January 23, 2011 at the age of 91.
The youngest of five children, Ivan was born in Van Buren, Arkansas on February
5, 1919. His family traveled west to Seaside, Oregon and then settled in Hoquiam,
WA, where he grew up, enjoying sports and graduating from high school.
Attending Central Washington College in Ellensburg, he continued playing
basketball, becoming one of their star players, and working part time jobs to
support himself. He received a B.A. in Education.
Enlisting in the Naval Air Force Corps in 1941, he was trained at Sand Point
Naval Air Station and Corpus Christi, Texas where he was commissioned as Second
Lieutenant in the Marine Corps. As a dive bomber pilot, he was sent to Midway
Island, Samoa, the Solomon Islands, Bougainville, Raboul, and Emireau, among
other locations in the South Pacific. He became a flight instructor at El Toro
Marine Air Base in California, completing instrument flight training and
qualifying as an instructor. Earning the rank of Major, Ivan's love of flying
motivated his career choice to fly for commercial airline companies for the
next 34 years. He flew for Pan Am, West Coast Airlines, and Hughes Air West, 30
years as a captain and 8 years as a check pilot, retiring in 1979.
Although his family and career were the focus of his life, Ivan also found time
to volunteer in the community with Meals on Wheels and reading audio books for
the blind. A veracious reader and avid gardener, he and Frances have enjoyed
living on Mercer Island for 54 years.
Ivan is survived by his wife Frances, of 63 years, daughters and sons-in-law,
Barbara (Glen) Suggs, Patricia (Ed) Miller and Carolyn (John) Conner, as well
as 9 grandchildren; Jennifer and Megan Suggs, Joseph, Daniel, Jonathan, Samuel
and Ruthanne Conner, David and Naomi Miller, and two great-grandchildren, Grace
and Hannah Conner. They will greatly miss their father and papa who loved and
provided for his family in a multitude of thoughtful and encouraging ways.
The family held a private memorial in their home, fondly celebrating this great
man they were so blessed to have as loving mentor and friend.
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Paul M Burrows
Captain
Jan 19, 2011
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Paul Merrill Burrows,
80, of Idaho Falls, died Wednesday, Jan.19, 2011, at the University of Utah
Medical Center in Salt Lake City.
Captain
Burrows flew for Bonanza, AirWest, Hughes Airwest, and Northwest. Funeral
arrangements are pending under the direction of Wood Funeral Home.
Condolences may be sent
to the family online at www.woodfuneralhome.com
click here to
SIGN GUESTBOOK
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Robert "Bob" Ja
Captain
Dec 28, 2010
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Robert
Ja Bob was a loving husband for 50 years to Diana, treasured father of
Nicole and Daniele Ja and her husband Val Huang to whom he was
incredibly devoted to, and special grandfather of Ethan and Kyle Huang
whom he cherished. He passed away peacefully surrounded by his family in
his Hillsborough home of 30 years on Tues., Dec. 28, 2010 at the age of
75. His family includes Richard and his wife Patsy, Pauline and her
husband Dr. Gary Lee, Jeanette and her husband Werner Yee, his beloved
nieces, nephews, and grand nieces and nephews. He lived his
extraordinary life within a loving circle of family and friends,
respected and adored by all. Bob was born in Chinatown, SF to the late
Wing Oy and Fay Lin Ja on Nov. 17, 1935. He lived his life with
vivaciousness. He fulfilled his joy of flying planes as a commercial
pilot for 27 years, retiring as a Captain for Northwest Airlines. He
loved to travel and share the wonders of the world with Diana and his
girls. He is remembered for his zest for life, bright spirit, and
courage. He transformed life's most difficult challenges into
opportunities for demonstrating the human capacity for selfless love,
joy, laughter, and connection. A celebration of Bob's life will be at 12
noon on Sun., Jan. 2, 2011 at Sneider & Sullivan, 977 S. El Camino
Real, San Mateo. Donations may be sent in lieu of flowers to the
Stanford Cancer Center or the Coyote Point SPCA.
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Robert Sherer
V.P. Finance
Nov 27, 2010
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ROBERT
SHERER Robert J. Sherer, 97, Passed away at his home in Fountain Hills,
Ariz., Nov. 27, 2010. Born in Eaton, Ohio, Nov. 25, 1913, he was raised
on the family farm. Bob spent most of his life in the aviation
industry, starting with the CAB and moving into the private sector with
Bonanza Airlines/Air West in 1956, where he became vice president of
finance. He left RW in 1970 at the time of the Hughes takeover and then went to Texas International Airlines as President.
After two years, he became vice president of finance with
National/PanAmerican Airlines, before returning to Las Vegas to help
start Sun World Airlines. Upon retiring from the industry, he became
active with the Methodist church, the Salvation Army and the Marine
Corps League. In 2003, He and Maxine moved to Fountain Hills, where he
cared for her until his death. He was a proud former Marine, serving
with the 6th Marine Division on Okinawa during World War II and in
Korea, before retiring from the reserves with the rank of major in 1955.
He is survived by his wife, Maxine; children, Robert, John, Alice and
Steve; grandchildren, Debra Lucus, Chris Spievak, Lillian and Megan
Sherer; and great-grandchildren, Jake and Grace Speivak. His remains
were cremated and will be interred at the United Methodist Church in
Fountain Hills. At his request, there will be a family only service at a
future date. No flowers or donations, please, once again at his
request.
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Gordon Maiden
Stations
Nov 8, 2010
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Gordon R. Maiden, 67, of Las Vegas, passed away Nov. 8, 2010. He was born March 22, 1943, in Danville, Ill., and resided in Las Vegas for the last 45 years. He retired from Northwest Airlines and served in the U.S. Navy. He is survived by his wife, Margaret; brother, Clarence Maiden; stepdaughters, Constance Rosebrock, Catherine Vanich, Peggy Nowman and Brenda Barnhardt; stepsons, Wayne and Kenneth Sager; along with 11 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. Services will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 13, at Palm Mortuary, 800 S. Boulder Highway. Burial is pending at Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Boulder City.
NOTE: Gordon began his career with Bonanza in 1966 and retired from NWA in 1996.
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Susan (Breckenridge) Wall
In Flight
Nov 8, 2010
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Susan passed away at home in Prescott, Ariz., on Monday, Nov. 8, 2010, having lived with ALS since 2007. Born March 15, 1947, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, Susan was proud of her dual citizenship.
She is preceded in death by daughter Anna and stepson Geoff; survived by husband Bill Wall, loving partner for 36 years; by siblings John (Rebecca) of Calgary, Alberta; Ann (Arnold) of Vancouver, British Columbia; Mary (David) of Ottawa, Ontario; and stepdaughter DeeAnn (Paul) of Portland, Ore.
Susan will be remembered by family and friends for her radiant smile, artistic flair and strength of spirit. She loved life, laughter and people, and valued her many friendships. She and Bill shared the joy of travel and adventure, through which they touched the hearts and lives of many. Susan's strong Christian faith provided comfort during her illness and she was grateful for the loving support of those around her.
A memorial service will be at 3 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 15, 2010, at American Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1085 Scott Drive, Prescott, Ariz. Donations are suggested in Susan's name to the Good Samaritan Hospice, 1065 Ruth St., Prescott, AZ 86301.
Hampton Funeral Home was entrusted with the arrangements. To sign Susan's guest book, visit www.hamptonfuneralhome.com
Note: Susan was hired in 1971 by Hughes Airwest as a Flight Attendant. She married Captain Bill Wall 3 years later. Bill began his career with WCA in early 1968.
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Mike Murphy
V.P. Community Affairs
October 28, 2010
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Mike was hired by Pacific Airlines in 1962, as a ticket agent at LAX. Other positions held were Assistant Station Manager in Santa Barbara, Station Manager in San Diego and several sales and marketing positions in Los Angeles. In 1970, Hughes Airwest moved Mike and his family to Seattle as Special Assistant Public Affairs. He was later promoted to the corporate offices in San Mateo, California to head up the Public Affairs department.
When Hughes Airwest was sold, Mike became Vice President Marketing for Republic Airlines West. In 1981, he left the Airline industry to become President of the Pacific Merchant Shipping Association in San Francisco. In 1987, American President Lines, Ltd. hired Mike to move to Washington, DC as Vice President Government Affairs. The joys of retirement came in May 2000, but he remained active in Washington issues through his consulting firm – The Bodega Group while he and Linda resided in Annapolis, Maryland.
Mike is survived by his wife Linda and their three grown children and six grandchildren residing in London, England, McLean, Virginia and San Jose, California.
In 2004, Mike and Linda returned to the Bay Area and they became quite active with the Coyote Point Yacht Club where their 38 foot Island Packet sailboat "Spirit" is berthed. His activity in the yacht club prompted their Commodore Steve Basuino to post this tribute on their website:
On Thursday October 28th, Michael Murphy, a Member of the Coyote Point Yacht Club and former member of the Board of Directors, passed away after fighting a long and courageous battle with cancer. Michael was an avid Sailor and enjoyed sailing the SF Bay with his wife, Linda and family. Michael will be remembered for his dedication to a multitude of community services, his great "generosity of spirit" and especially, his perpetual sense of humor. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
Services will be held on Saturday 6 November, 2010 at 10:00 AMat St Bartholomew's Church, 600 Columbia Drive, San Mateo, Reception to follow at 11:00 AM at Coyote Point Yacht club. The family has invited all of Mike's CPYC shipmates and friends to attend.
A personal note about Mike:
Fair thee well shipmate, from a friend
Eight Bells,
Mike Murphy an active Coyote Point Yacht Club member and past treasurer, born August 3, 1941, passed away October 28, 2010 at 1650 hours.
It is with deep sadness that received the report of the passing of Mike Murphy. Mike rejoined us at Coyote Point Yacht Club in 2004 after being away for a number of years in Annapolis. Mike was a dedicated member. He and his wife Linda own the 38 foot Island Packet "Spirit". The Murphy family where frequent participants at CPYC cruise outs. As the club's treasurer, Mike used his amazing organizational skills to keep the club's business in proper order. I can only speak about what he meant to me. I am sure many others would have similar stories to this one. When I was newly elected to a job on the BOD I needed help in figuring out how to do a certain event. Mike stepped up and offered to help me. He sat down with me and through his meticulous financial records he reconstructed the whole event for me laying out the path for me to follow. Mike had a pleasant disposition and certainly inspired me and others to do their best. Due to Mike's illness he was unable to continue serving on the BOD. His loss is a great one. We will miss him.
Fair thee well shipmate; rest under the watch of your heavenly father where you'll have fair winds and following sea.
Eight Bells will be rung at the Annual Meeting on Tuesday, November 16, 2010
......Sailor, rest your oar......
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Nancy J Soukup
Flight Attendant
October 26, 2010
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Nancy
died peacefully after a long battle with cancer. A flight attendant,
ski instructor, realtor, business owner, and foster parent, she packed
more into one lifetime than most people do in five.
Nancy is
survived by her sister, Sally Salsig, Medford, OR; brother, Bill Soukup,
Gig Harbor, WA; and several nieces and cousins.
A celebration of
Nancy's life will be held on November 13 at 2:30 p.m. at Open Spirit
Center for Spiritual Living, 10209 SE Division St., Portland, OR. In
lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Open Spirit..
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Joseph "Gil" Roman
Reservations
October 27, 2010
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Joseph Roman died of heart failure Wednesday, Oct. 27, 2010. He was 82.
Known as “Gil,” he was born to Basillo and Genevieve Roman on May 2, 1928, in Durango. He grew up here and graduated from Durango High School in the 1940s. He went on to graduate from Adams State College with a bachelor’s degree in education.
On June 8, 1959, he married Mary Lou Romero in Durango.
Mr. Roman went into the Air Force after college and became a navigator on B-47 Stratojet bombers. After his discharge, he went to work for Bonanza Airlines. The company was purchased by Air West and then acquired by Northwest Airlines, which took the Roman family to Minnesota. Mr. Roman was a manager in reservations.
After he retired, Mr. Roman pursued the genealogy of his family back to Italy. His wife said he filled a number of notebooks with the information he discovered.
Mr. Roman was preceded in death by his son Richard Roman.
He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Mary Lou Roman, of Apple Valley, Minn.; son Tony Roman of Apple Valley; daughters Sophia Anaya of Apple Valley and Lara Max of New Market, Minn.; sister, Ann Martinez, of San Francisco; and seven grandchildren.
A service will be held at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be sent to Saint Clare’s Monastery, 8650 Russell Ave. S., Bloomington, MN 55431.
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Howard "Bud" Stokes
Sales
October 22, 2010
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Howard (Bud) Stokes passed away in Olympia, Washington on Oct. 22 after a short bout with cancer.
Bud began his career with Bonanza Airlines in the early 1960s. He was promoted into Sales in 1968 from his position as an agent at the JAMTO office at Norton A.F.B near San Bernadino. Throuout his marketing career Bud worked in various sales positions including District Sales Manager in SJC and he was later promoted to Regional Sales Manager based in Seattle. Bud retired when Republic was acquired by Northwest Airlines to begin a new career in the cruise business. Over the years he worked for Royal Cruise Lines, Peter Dielman Crusies, Runaway Tour and finally, Variety Cruises.
Memorial services have not yet been planned.
Anyone wishing to send a card to Bud's wife, Judy, may do so. Her address is:
Judy Stokes
3004 Westwood Court N.W.
Olympia, WA 98502.
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Mary Ann Spencer
In Flight
Oct 14, 2010
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Mary Ann Spencer born, September 27th 1940 in Marion Indiana, passed away October 14th 2010 at her home in Leavenworth Washington due to cardiac related trauma.
Mary Ann's life was a fantastic one. Her parents were Richard and Doris Spencer. Doris has often said, "Mary Ann was the very best thing that ever happened in my life." Mary Ann attended grade school at Saint Joan of Arc elementary in West Los Angeles, Ca. and then went on to Notre Dame Academe in Brentwood California. From there she pursued her childhood dream of becoming a flight attendant. In 1957 (only 17 years old), she first gained employment at Pacific Airlines and went on to a successful career at Hughes Airwest. There she received high accolades and was celebrated for 15 years of service. While at Hughes, she met the father of her two boys, George Avellar. A most cherished memory of hers was their trip together down the Colorado River while they were dating. She would often laugh, remembering images of George going down the canyon to the river on a mule. A broken paddle from the trip still decorates her home.
Mary Ann and George separated in 1980 but remained close friends and were committed to raising their children together. During that same time, she visited Leavenworth while on a vacation from a very tenuous time in town in Northern California. The Jim Jones Cult had been a strong influence in her peaceful valley for many years and Mary Ann had decided it was time move. While on an RV trip through Leavenworth she realized it would be very special place for her boys to grow up. After consulting with her parents, they decided that the entire family would move to this beautiful little town. Together, they found 4 Acres of adjoining property on Ski Hill Dr. A well-beaten path is still in place today between the two homes.
As a resident of Leavenworth, Mary Ann became the successful business owner of Village Books and Music. The business was noted in Northwest Best Places for several years. Later, she went on to open a clothing boutique, Northwest Enchantment. Mary Ann's home always welcomed others. She was an amazing, loving mother. There was always good food and warm clothes for everyone. Her son's friends were there often --her house was always filled with laughter and lively conversation.
Most recently, Mary Ann retired part time but continued to be a wonderful hostess at Kestrel Cellars on Front Street. She will be remembered as a strong and witty woman that gifted us with her unconditional love, grace, and charm.
Mary Ann is survived by her mother Doris,' her brother Chip. her three sons Michael, John, & Brian, her grandchildren Hailey & Brody, her little dog Yoshi, and her many wonderful friends.
She is predeceased by her lifetime friend and companion George Avellar (August 2010) and her Father Ric Spencer (November 1992).
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Photo of Mary Ann & George
taken in January of 2010
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Oh, I have slipped the surly bonds of Earth
And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings:
Sunward I've climed, and joined the tumbling mirth
Of sun-split clouds, --and done a hundred things
You have not dreamed of -- wheeled and soared and swung
High in the sunlit silence. Hov'ring there,
I've chased the shouting wind along, and flung
My eager craft through footless halls of air...
Up, up the long, delirious, burning blue
I've topped the wind-swept heights with easy grace
Where never lark nor eagle flew --
And, while silent lifting mind I've trod
The high untrespassed sanctity of space,
Put out my hand, and touched the face of God
written by John G Magee Jr.
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