On this page I try to publish items of personal interest. 

Not by design as any item of personal interest is welcome yet most postings are obituaries.

I publish as I receive them thus the postings are far from comprehensive.

Rupa News is the better medium for that.  However this website can be updated frequently and is thus speedier.

Arvid
 
I don't have all the details but Captain Jim Cook of Mchenry, Illinois died on Wednesday
July 25th and the funeral was at 10:00 am Monday July 30 th. He was based at ORD.
 
You may already have some info on this.
 
Marv Kruskopf  (retired UAL Capt. ORD and SFO) That's all the accurate info
I can give you.

To All on the DCA RUPA List:

Frederick Kell Patterson -JFK
PATTERSON - Frederick Kell , age 81 of Wading River, NY formerly of Smithtown, NY passed away July 1, 2007 in Melville, NY. Frederick was born in Easington Colliery, United Kingdom and at age 17 joined the Royal Air force where he flew Mosquito's as a night fighter pilot at the end of World War II. he came to the United States in 1956 and flew various aircraft for United Airlines for 30 years, ending his career flying 767's. Fred was an avid Ham radio enthusiast. Beloved husband of the late Joan Ward Patterson. Loving father of Michael (Patrice) Patterson of Valencia, CA, Ann (John) Delliso of Colts Neck, NJ, and William (Patricia) Patterson of Wading River, NY. Cherished grandfather of Douglas, Lisa (Jon), Jonathan, Michelle (Donald), Michael and Sean. Devoted great-grandfather of Bryce, Jacob and Hayden. Fred is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews. Visiting 2 to 4PM and 7 to 9PM Thursday at the Branch Funeral Home, 190 E. Main Street, Smithtown, NY. Private Cremation. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Hospice Care Network, 99 Sunnyside Blvd, Woodbury, NY 11797.

June 13, 2007

Martin C. Taylor

My beloved Marty died this morning at 5 a.m. It was less than 3 weeks after being diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. Services are private. A memorial tribute is planned for the future.  Love, Annie

From your editor:  Marty was an Air Force C119 pilot, started with United in May 1964, was my room-mate for three years in Manhattan Beach as well as my partner in our first sail boat.  He soon moved to better sailing in Florida and stayed there and in boating the rest of his life.  He had retired in 1994.

He was my mentor and a true friend all those years even though we were on opposite coasts , I am truly sad to lose him.   AvN

Captain Elmer Follin died at 83 on May 23,2007. His home was in Ft. Lauderdale and his wife was Mary Kay and he had three kids. I think one may have been a pilot,but I did not know his kids personally.

He flew 30 years with United and I know I flew with Elmer,but actually can't remember where and on which airplane. I enjoyed my time with him.

The Kraeer Funeral Home is handling the arrangements and they can be reached at 954 565 5591.

The friends may visit on June 8th Friday from 6pm-8pm and the funeral is on the 9th Saturday at 10:00 am at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Ft. Lauderdale. This is all in the Fort Lauderdale Sun Sentinel.

JIM MOREHEAD June 3, 2007

John M. Leineweber (LAXCM )

1939-2007

John retired from United Airlines, Crew Scheduler, in 2000.  Pilots until they centralized in EXO 1980 but he stayed and moved to Flight Attendants.  He began with United in Portland Oregon, in 1959, at the ripe old age of 19.

He suffered long and hard with Leukemia for the past 5 years. He succumbed to his illness on June 3, 2007 at 9:00 pm.

His daughter, Elizabeth B. Leineweber, three Brothers and 26 first cousins, survives him.

A memorial Service will be held on June 22, 2007 at All Saints Catholic Church at N. E. 39th and Glison St. in Portland Oregon, at 11:00 am.

There will be a gathering afterward at Tony & Heidi Leineweber's home. A map will be handed out after the service.

He will truly be missed!

Cards and letters may be sent to:

4452 W. 234th St.,

Torrance, Ca. 90505

Harriet Newton & Elizabeth Leineweber

June 2, 2007

Please be advised that Captain Mark E. Zenner, SFO 747-400 Capt. who retired 4/26/2007, flew West on 31 May 2007. UAL Emp # 049560 ALPA# 0543744

W.S. Powell

ZENNER, MARK EDWARD
Mark Edward Zenner was born in Brooklyn Naval Hospital May 26, 1947. He died May 31, 2007. First-born son of Capt. Harold Joseph and Jene Louise Zenner, he is survived by his parents, his wife Linda, his three daughters, Christiana, Courtney, and Lauren, his four brothers and sister, Bruce, Jim, Paul, Audrey, and John, and their children. His family is bereft and mourns the loss of their son, husband, brother, and father.

Mark was raised in a naval family and lived in many cities and states during his childhood. He attended high school in Santa Cruz, California and graduated in 1965. He attended Stanford University as a U.S. Naval ROTC student and was a member of Alpha Sigma Phi fraternity. After completing his bachelor's degree at Stanford in 1969, he began active duty with the U.S. Navy. He served the U.S. Navy as a combat pilot flying A7 Corsairs during the Vietnam war, and flew in support of his country off the aircraft carrier U.S.S. Enterprise.

Mark flew as a United Airlines pilot for 28 years following his naval career. He piloted DC-10 and Boeing 727, 737, 777, and 747 aircraft, most recently as a 747 captain. His life was devoted to his family and flying.

A memorial service will be held Monday, June 4, at 3:00 p.m. at St. Andrews United Methodist Church in Highlands Ranch.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: Mark Zenner Grandchildren Education Trust. Please send checks to: Bruce D. Campbell, PC, 1507 Pine St., Boulder, CO 80302.
Published in the Denver Newspaper Agency on 6/3/2007.

More on Mark:

From an article from the Denver Post, forwarded from Rex May

SFO Capt. Mark Zenner retired last week. He flew his last flight on the 747 just a few days ago.

He was one of the leaders of an effort by pilots around the country to get the FAA to change the age 60 rule. They were motivated by the fact that United had terminated our pensions. The FAA a couple of months ago finally agreed to extend the age limit to 65, but they said the process would take 18-24 months and would not be retroactive. He and many others who were about to retire were understandably crushed by that decision.

We got an email from the chief pilot this morning telling us that Mark Zenner died yesterday, May 31st.

This evening we got an email from a fellow pilot. Yesterday, the last day Mark was on the payroll at United, Mark drove into the Arapahoe County Fire Department parking lot, pulled a gun out and shot himself to death.

Those of you who also knew Mark know that he was a very decent person. It's really hard to make sense out of something like this.

 I would like to report the death of Marvin G. Engel on 5/1/07 at the
age of 80 in Mesa AZ from a stroke.

There are no services planned. Marv was a retired UA Captain in DENFO
and a member of RUAEA.

Also, he is the brother of Dale Engel, a former UA DEN Mechanic.

For those who may wish to send cards, Dale's address is -

Illiff Care Center
6060 E. Illiff
Denver, CO 80222
Thank you.

Sonia Brousseau
Retired UA Employee
sls92slb@pacbell. net

                                                **************************************

Date: Friday, June 15, 2007 10:35 pm

Published in Long Island's Newsday on 4/26/2007:

Francis J. Quinn - Francis J. , on April 25, 2007 in his 90th year. A long time resident of Wantagh, NY.

Beloved husband of the late Margaret. Devoted father of Judith A., James and Thomas. Loving grandfather of Tara, Brian and Justin. Cherished brother of Madeline Cairnes...

...In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Taub Institute for
research on Alzheimers Disease and the Aging Brain at Columbia
University c/o Jane Sherman 630 West 168th St. NY,NY 10032.

Frank Quinn was one of the very special Flight Managers/Chief Pilots, a true leader. Frank unerstood the line pilot, his work environment, and the limitations from contract restrictions from A - Z. Frank NEVER allowed UAL to enter the equation when treating a personal situation and preferred to handle HIS domicile in house. There has never been a pilot I have known who would not have gone the extra mile for him, for we all knew he would go an extra 100 miles for each and every one of us.
The mold he was created in was broken by the likes of Ferris, and the Wolf's and Tilton's of the world could not hold his jock strap when it comes to gathering the respect of the line pilot.
Instead of spending untold millions of dollars with consulting companies prior to the labor dispute of 1985, all UAL would have had to do was to call Frank about how to handle the rank and file line pilot. Problem is, HE NEVER WOULD HAVE TOLD THEM - HA!!

Bob Falco

From: Wrecksmay@aol.com View Contact Details Add Mobile Alert
Date: Wed, 25 Apr 2007 21:35:16 EDT

Subject: Captain Jim Matheson
To: Wrecksmay@aol.com

I just received word that Jim passed away this morning. I have no details about the cause.
The only function planned at this time will be with the South Bay Jazz Club on May 13. Contact Bob White at 310-376-2591 for details if you wish.
Someone usually calls me when there is sickness or death and I can E-mail the group. I will be out of the country from April 28 until May 11. If anything comes during this period please call anyone you think might be interested.
Rex May

                                      **************************************

April 2, 2007

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I regret to inform you of the death of Ed Crowther, Captain (Retired).

Death Notice - In The Washington Post
April 2, 2007

Crowther Jr., Edward Castello
EDWARD CASTELLO CROWTHER, JR. Age 79, of Clifton, VA, on March 31, 2007. He retired from United Airlines as a pilot in 1987. Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Mary J. (Souders) Crowther of Clifton; his son, Blaine E. Crowther of Barboursville, VA; daughter, Kim M. Graham of Manassas, VA; four grandchildren, and a sister. Funeral services will be held at REST HAVEN FUNERAL CHAPEL, 1601 Pennsylvania Ave., Hagerstown, MD on Wednesday, April 4 at 1 p.m.
There will be a viewing on Tuesday, April 3 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the funeral home.

received from Cliff Sanderson:

Dr Bob Riordan had many friends in the UAL pilot group..he was truly
one of the "good guys"!!

Subject: Robert Henry Riordan Feb 1 1932 - Feb 22 2007

Carolyn Riordan phoned me this morning with the sad news that our old
buddy Bob Riordan passed away last night after a long 16 year battle
with Parkinson's Disease. She said Bob was having dinner at his care
giver's home, when he let out a sigh and collapsed.

Carolyn had taken Bob to the doctor a couple of days ago because his
appearance had seemed to change.

I guess everything just starts shutting down after many years of this
disease, and it finally took it's toll on him. I asked if Bob had
been able to read or understand the birthday card I sent the first of
this month, and Carolyn said no, but he had nodded when she showed it
to him.

According to Carolyn, Bob really loved the Navy and in keeping with
that he will be cremated and then interred at Arlington National
Cemetery probably around the first week of June. She is waiting until
then because her son Taylor will have completed flight training with
the Air Force, and should be able to attend.

Taylor is actually in multi-engine training now with the Navy at
Corpus Christi. Apparently a third of his class at Corpus are Air
Force students. I wonder if Brunie LaRue still works in student control?

We all shared a lot with Bob Riordan - laughs and comraderie; meals
and travel, Navy and airline stories. And he shared something with
most of us that we didn't enjoy - you know what I mean, digitally
speaking.

I am missing several email addresses, so if any of you can pass the
word to the UAL group that was in VR-55, and other people in the Navy
community, I would appreciate it.

Carolyn's info:

Carolyn Riordan
1064 Manor Lake Dr. #B-102
Naples, FL. 34110
phone 239-596-2705
email sweetcarolinecr@ yahoo.com

Remembering Bob,

Hi Jerry,
I regret to inform you that Noel Summer passed away last evening. (FEB 17th)
I got this information from a neighbor and have no other details.
Terry

Noel Summer had two boys who both may have flown for USAir. I know at least one did. Noel worked on airplanes a lot and hung out at the Pompano Beach Airport.

He was a quiet man and a long time MIA pilot. Good guy.

I got this from my good friend Ed.

Mary Barbara? Griffith

Barbara Griffith passed away peacefully February 13, 2007, at the age of 75. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA she has resided in Hudson for 24 years. She enjoyed spending time with her family and was an active member of the St. Mary Parish Women's Guild.

She is survived by her loving husband, of 52 years Thomas E. (Ed), and five sons. Colonel Thomas E. Jr.(Liz) Burke, VA, James J(Linda) Muskegon, MI, Robert W(Denise) Woodstock, GA, Greg J(Tricia) Hudson, OH, David A(Margot) Parsippany, NJ and brother John F(Gretchen) Mars, PA and Naples FL and fifteen beautiful grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her twin brother William Jarvis and her parents Genevieve and John Jarvis.

Prior to becoming a full time wife and mother, she attended Duquesne University and taught at the DePaul Institute for the Deaf.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, February 16, 2007 from 3 to 5 and 7 to 9 (pm) at Johnson Romito Funeral home in Hudson. Mass of Christian Burial will be on Saturday, February 17, 2007 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church in Hudson.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to either St. Mary Parish Building Fund or Seton Catholic School.

Hank Fischer passed away last night in his sleep. No details yet on services

I was shocked to hear this news this morning. I saw Hank at the RUPA luncheon last Thursday and he looked as normal as can be. I believe he was about 83. He had a very active life with our luncheons, the Elks, and around Pompano Beach where he lived from about 1966.
Hank was from Missouri and a very personable guy. He was originally with TWA and I believe he was furloughed and went with Capital. He awas married to Hester who died of cancer about 10 years ago. They have a son Larry who is a mechanic with Delta.
I knew Hank even in New Orleans in the 50s and my MOM said that he gave us a ride home from the airport one day. This was when people lived within 5 miles of the airport!
I hope to have more information, but it was a shock to hear of Hank's death.

May such a good guy rest in peace.

Services for Hank Fischer will be Thursday, Feb 15 at Kraeer Funeral Home, 200 N Federal Hwy, Pompano Beach, Fl. 33062 954-941-4111
Viewing 2:00-4:00PM 6:00-7:00PM. Elks service will start at 7:00PM

Please pass this on to all. He was 86 years old.

Cards may be sent to Sally Fischer at:

2661 NW 4th Ave Pompano Beach, FL 33064

Son Larry Fischer is now here with the Family in Pompano Beach, FL

From: TED & ROSE WILKINSON
Date: Fri, 2 Feb 2007 10:07:48 -0700
Subject: [retup] Final Flight West of Bill Pearce

William H. Pearce, 88, passed away Monday Jan 29, after a brief illness. He hired with United in 1940 and flew a variety of aircraft up to the 747. He is survived by his wife, Lucile, sons, William Jr., Edward, Robert, and Richard. A memorial service will be held Feb. 5, at Olinger Crown Hill Chapel, in Wheat Ridge, CO.

Thomas J. Rucker, Jr., 89 a retired commercial pilot and decorated
WWII pilot, died of renal failure Jan. 24 at his home in Fairfax, VA.
He had lived in Virginia for 60 years. He received the Distinguished
Flying Cross in 1943 for flying more than 1,000 hours between January of
1942 and March of 1943 in pioneering flights that helped establish air
routes across Africa and the Middle East, transporting key personnel
and vital material over unmapped terrain where landing facilities and
navigational aids were practically nonexistent.
Upon returning to the United States he was stationed at Romulus
Air Force Base in Ohio where he trained flight crews for service in the
African and European theatre. After military service he moved to
Northern Virginia and began a 32 year career as a commercial pilot, first
with Pennsylvania Central Airlines which became Capital Airlines and then
finally was merged with United Airlines, flying out of all three
of the Washington metropolitan area airports. When Mr. Rucker
retired from UAL in 1977 he began a career in real estate with Barcroft
Properties in Falls Church, VA. He also volunteered at Travelers Aid
at Dulles International Airport for over 10 years. Mr. Rucker was an
avid ballroom dancer and member of the Washington Cotillion.
Mr. Rucker was born in St. Louis, Mo. His father was a high
school principal and his mother a music teacher. He graduated from
Columbia University in 1939 with a Masters in Education. The two years
between his graduation and his joining the Army Air Corps were spent as a
high school science teacher in the St. Louis area.
Mr. Rucker was married to June Stones Rucker of Chicago, IL for 46
years until her death in 1991. Survivors include daughters Suzanne
Horstman of Stuart, FL, Karen Vincent of Parkersburg, WV, and Janice
DeHaven of Centreville, VA; six grandchildren and three great
granddaughters.

============ ========= ========
Obituary found at North County Times Serving San Diego and Riverside
Counties http://tinyurl. com/3x34eo

FALLBROOK, CA - Hugh M. Wilson, 85, died Sunday, Dec. 24, 2006.

Born June 21, 1921, in Elk River, he lived in Fallbrook for 33 years.
He retired in 1981 as a pilot from United Airlines after more than 35
years. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps as a pilot with the Marine
Aircraft Group 25 in the Pacific Theater. He was a member of the Zion
Lutheran Church in Fallbrook, the OX-5 Aviation Pioneers, the
Experimental Aircraft Association, and the Miramar Rod & Gun Club. He
was a former member of the Babylon Rod & Gun Club in New York. He was
a flight instructor for Fallbrook Air Service. He enjoyed flying,
boating, water skiing, hunting, skeet and trap shooting and avocado
ranching.

Mr. Wilson is survived by his wife of 60 years, Helen A. Moynahan
Wilson of Fallbrook; daughter and son-in-law Peggy and Bill Armstrong
of Jacksonville, Fla.; sons and daughters-in- law Hugh "Bud" and Nancy
Wilson of Carlsbad, Robert and Rita Wilson of El Cajon, and David and
Jennifer Wilson of Bonsall; 11 grandchildren; and three
great-grandchildren .

To Fellow Aviators, Friends & Associates

Yes,   Lee Cameron   has turned in his pilot license after 80 years of aviation adventure enthusiasm, pilot, owner, airline pilot and
entrepreneur of the aviation and business communities. He's gone west for the last time!

Lee was 95 (ninety-five) years old last November 7.  If he had any regrets it is only that he did not make it to one hundred years of age.

He breathed his last Saturday Jan 27, 2007 around 6:30 PM.

The memorial service will at First United Methodist Church, 4832 Tujunga Ave, North Hollywood, CA 91601 at 2:30 PM Sunday Feb. 11, 2007

Larry Stahl
Partner with Lee Cameron
Aerospace Products

Robert Soergel, a United Airlines pilot who flew more than 3 million passengers during a 41-year career that started with propeller planes and ended with jumbo jets, has died.

Mr. Soergel, 80, died Saturday, 1/20/2007, of prostate cancer in his Saratoga home.

         For decades he was known on both sides of the Pacific for his lifelong habit of making near-constant in-flight announcements over headsets to passengers -- although he found it a challenge to describe the scenery during his frequent flights between San Francisco and Honolulu. Colleagues dubbed him "Da Voice.''

       "He loved talking to passengers,'' his son Rich said. "He could talk for the whole flight. He'd tell the history of Hawaii, he'd explain why the wheels were squeaking, he'd talk about the pineapple juice in a mai tai.''

        Mr. Soergel was a calm, unruffled presence in the cockpit, his son said. He liked to make a friendly wager with his co-pilots that involved standing a flashlight on its end in the cockpit during landings. If the flashlight fell over, whoever was at the controls had to buy dinner for his colleague.

       "Dad hardly ever lost,'' his son said.

        In the 1960s, the steely-eyed captain talked a nervous hijacker into allowing him to land the plane in Florida for refueling, instead of proceeding directly to Cuba. The hijacker was arrested without incident.

       On another occasion, his son recalled, Mr. Soergel was at the controls of his single-engine private "tail dragger" plane near San Jose when the throttle came off in his hand.

       "He just kept altitude, glided in safely and never lost his composure,'' his son said. "Then he told me, 'I better check that thing.' "

       Mr. Soergel was also a passionate gardener who enjoyed growing lemons, almonds and prize-winning apricots. While gardening, he would often let his gaze wander to follow the flight of passing birds.

      "He was always looking at birds and saying how incredible it was to be able to fly,'' his son said.

       Mr. Soergel, a native of Buffalo, N.Y., attended Union College, near Buffalo. He served as a U.S. Navy pilot during World War II, the 1948 Berlin Airlift and the Korean War.

        During the Berlin Airlift, Mr. Soergel flew 60 missions under difficult conditions, landing on the short airstrip with planes full of flour, coal and other staples for the cut-off city.

        Mr. Soergel became a pilot for Capital Airlines, which later merged with United, in the 1940s. He retired in 1986.

        He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Phyllis, a former flight attendant, and by children Rich Soergel of San Diego, Rob Soergel of Saratoga and Sandy Hernandez of Santa Rosa.

        A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Feb. 10 at Saratoga Federated Church, 20390 Park Place, Saratoga.

From: Rex May, 1/25/07

Just received word that retired Captain Ben Harper passed away in Maui on 1/23/ 07.

Donette thinks that Ben was 86 years young.
He died of a heart attack so I am told.
Thanks D & D

From: "Shirley and Jack Hanson" <fly-hanson@msn.com>
To: "rex and linda may" <wrecksmay@aol.com>

Carl McClellan DeLeeuw

passed away January 13 2007 at age 87. He joined the Army Air Corps before December 11, 1941 and served for 3 1/2 years in India, in the China-Burma-India Theatre of Operations. He had a 34-year career with United Airlines, flying out of Idlewild, O'Hare, and LAX. He became active in the CBI Veterans Assoc. and became National Commander in l987 and 1988. He is survived by his wife, Denise; daughter, Jeri-Anne Nelson; son-in-law Steven Nelson; sister, Carma Robertson; and grandsons, Carl Robert Craig and Jonathan Robert Craig. He will be missed by relatives across the U.S. In the summer there will be a family memorial in Park City, Utah in the mountains he loved.

From: JShep0225@aol.com
To: dtharper@inreach.com
Sent: Saturday, January 20, 2007 12:34 PM

Jim Williams

Jim started with Capital Airlines in Customer Service at Midway Airport around 1959. With the merger of United Airlines Jim continued working at Midway but switched to Flight Operations. He started with Flight Dispatch when UAL closed its Midway operations and switched them to O'Hare. He continued in dispatch until his retirement from EXO CHIDD.

The wake will be Monday January 22, 2007 from 3-9pm at
Pedersen-Ryberg Funeral Home
435 North York Road Elmhurst, IL
630-834-1133
Funeral Mass will be January 23 at 9:30am. Details available from Funeral Home.

Dear All,
Our family would like to let you know that our father Bob Roland passed away peacefully in his sleep in his home in Las Vegas Wednesday 12/27/06.

I have included a link below for his obituary in the Washington Post in todays paper.
We will be taking our father back home to Virginia for his service Friday Jan 5, 2007 Washington Plaza Baptist Church 1615 Washington Plaza, Reston VA 11:00am.

He will be greatly missed, but praise the Lord this separation is only temporary, for he is now eternally with his Savior Jesus.

God Bless
Susan Roland-Kelly
smkelly60@gmail. com

ROBERT W. ROLAND (Age 80)

Died Wednesday, December 27, 2006 at home in Las Vegas, NV. Bob was born in Winchester, VA August 27, 1926 to the late Wilmer and Lutie Roland. He served in World War II as a Marine Corps Sergeant and during the Korean War as a flight instructor. Began his career with Capitol Airlines in 1951 and retired as a United Airlines Captain in 1986. He was recently preceded in death by his youngest brother Chester Roland. He is survived by children, Linda Mattix and husband, Steve of Charlotte, NC, Susan Kelly and husband, Tom of Las Vegas, NV and David Roland and wife, Amy of Madison, WI; grandchildren, David Mattix of Burbank, CA, Emily Mattix of Charlotte, NC, Lindsey and Stephanie Moes of Las Vegas, NV, Gregory Roland, Robert Roland, Kevin Roland, Geoffrey Roland of Madison, WI; great-granddaughter : Meredith Mattix of Charlotte, NC. A memorial service will be held 11 a.m., Friday, January 5, 2007, Washington Plaza Baptist Church, 1615 Washington Plaza, Reston, VA. Interment will follow this summer at Arlington National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Reston Interfaith, 11150 Sunset Hills Road, Suite 210, Reston, VA 20190.
Published in The Washington Post on 12/31/2006.

To All of the DCA RUPA List

WILLIAM LEE (BILL) TAYLOR, -husband, father, brother, decorated Naval Aviator, Airline Captain, and friend died suddenly and unexpectedly Thursday, December 28, 2006 in Tellico Village, Tennessee. After growing up in Peekskill, NY, Bill graduated from Georgia Tech University. Immediately after his college graduation he entered the U.S. Navy where he was Commissioned and earned his Wings of Gold as a Naval Aviator - and began a distinguished career serving his country as a Fighter Pilot. During the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, then Lieutenant (jg) Taylor was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his bravery and exploits while flying Low Level Photo Reconnaissance Missions over the island of Cuba, and President John F. Kennedy personally decorated his squadron with the Navy Unit Commendation for their bravery and selfless service to their country. After leaving the Navy he embarked on a 34-year career as a pilot with United Airlines where he earned the four stripes of an Airline Captain. His career culminated as the Captain of the Boeing 747, flying to destinations around the world. Retiring in 1997 first to Pensacola, Florida and then to Tellico Village, Tennessee he and his wife Terry enjoyed traveling and spending time with family and a close knit group of friends, while being active in their community and in their church. Bill played in the Church Orchestra and the Handbell Choir of the First Baptist Church of Tellico Village, and he served as a church trustee. Bill is survived by his cherished wife of 46 years Terolyn (Terry) Wilkins Taylor of the home; a daughter Hillary Taylor Sheffer and her husband Brent of Columbus, Ohio; two sons, Christopher Bruce Taylor and his wife Christi of New Port Ritchie, Florida, Benjamin Terrell Taylor and his wife Michelle of Ashland, Ohio; one sister Mrs. JoAnn Taylor Brace and her husband, Robert of Syracuse, Utah; four grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Services will be held at 2 pm Tuesday, January 2, 2007 at the First Baptist Church of Tellico Village. Family will receive friends after the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Children's Advocacy Center, P.O. Box 928, Lenoir City, TN 37771. Bill will be inurned at Arlington National Cemetery alongside his father and mother, the late Fred B. and Ann Lee Taylor. The Click Funeral Home of Lenoir City is handling arrangements.

Published in the Knoxville News Sentinel on 12/31/2006.

Hi, My wife, Tallulah Kershaw, was a flight attendant for United beginning in 1963. She passed away on November 7th, 2006. Carl DeLeeuw, a friend of Tallulah's and a member of RUPA63, asked me to request that you post her obituary information. I've attached a Microsoft Word document, which the local newspaper used in their obituary dated 12/31/2006, and a jpeg photo of Tallulah in case you want to use it. I took the picture and I give you permission for the purpose of copyright issues to use the photo. It is 2x3 at 600dpi, so it is easily resized to whatever you want. I hope you can do this listing on RUPA63.ORG - many pilots knew Tallulah and I'm sure they would appreciate knowing what has happened and seeing the photographs. Thank you, Christopher Perky 828-584-1000

www.sossomanfuneralservice.com      For Memory Book  Tallulah Kershaw, 64, of Lake James, NC, went to be with the Lord Tuesday, November 7. She was born in Charleston, SC, the daughter of the late Joseph Brevard Kershaw and Elizabeth Lucas Kershaw, and was a direct descendant of General J. B. Kershaw of the Civil War and General J. B. Kershaw of the Revolutionary War, after whom Kershaw County, SC, was named. Tallulah began her working life as a dance instructor for children on a local Charleston, SC, TV station when she was 12. After graduating from General William Moultrie High School, she journeyed to New York, becoming a backup dancer with the June Taylor Dancers on the Jackie Gleason Show. She then became a Flight Attendant for United Airlines, and was a champion skier with the company’s ski team. She was well known for her many wonderfully entertaining stories of her travels and adventures throughout the US, Europe and Asia, and for her warmth, empathy and exceptional courage. Tallulah is survived by her husband of 24 years, Christopher Perky; a brother Joseph Brevard Kershaw and his wife Kathe of Deerfield Beach, FL; their children, Kathleen, Tracy, and Summer; a brother Jonathan Lucas Kershaw and his wife Carole of Bethlehem, PA; their children; Laura and Stephen; Jonathan’s son, Adam Kershaw and his wife Devon of Mt. Pleasant, SC; a cousin, Jean Stutsman of Mt. Pleasant, SC; her children Jane, Judy and Pete; a cousin, Alyse Lucas Corcoran of Atlanta, GA; a sister-in-law, Janine Renee Perky of Vienna, VA; Janine’s children Jennifer and Ray; a close friend, roommate and fellow Flight Attendant since 1963, Suzy Lynch and her husband Bob of Seattle, WA, a close friend and the Best Man at her wedding, Walt Johnson and his wife Terry of Martinsburg, WV. Tallulah was proud to be called their ‘nother mother by Adam Kershaw, Jason Boehme, Breck, Tressa and Brennen Wheelock. Memorial services will be held at 1:00 PM Saturday, January 6, 2007, at the Morganton First Church of God with visiting Pastor and Worship Leader Roger Wheelock and his wife, Elaine, officiating. The family will receive friends following the service. Memorial contributions may be made to the Morganton First Church of God. Sossoman Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.sossomanfuneralservice.com.  Please call Mr. Perky at 828-584-1000 to confirm your attendance so enough food may be made available.

Dec 23, 2006

The Santa Rosa Press Democrat today reports the passing of Retired UAL Captain Dave England.
Dave was an accomplished musician, as well as a 32 year United pilot. A United States Air Force veteran, Dave and his wife, June,

enjoyed hiking, and their beloved Golden Retrievers.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 30th, at 11:00 AM, at Duggan's Mission Chapel,
525 West Napa St., Sonoma, CA, 95476. Donations preferred for: Hospice By the Bay, 140 West Napa St., Sonoma, CA, 95476,

or to: Pets Lifeline, P.O. Box 341, Sonoma, CA, 95476.

From: Art Mount and E.K. Williams

When Tom was based in JFK, I flew F/O for him quite a bit. It was
always a comfortable operation with Tom. He was a true gentleman.

SWEENEY, SR. , Thomas J.

On December 16, 2006, THOMAS J. SWEENEY, SR.;
beloved husband of Juanita G. Sweeney (nee Schline); devoted father of
Thomas J. Sweeney, Jr., Michael P. Sweeney, Nancy M. Meeder and the
late Marianne P. Sweeney; dear brother of Margie Webster; grandfather
of Patrick M. Sweeney and Kelly M. and Heather G. Meeder.
Friends may call at the family owned Ruck Towson Funeral Home, Inc.,
1050 York Road (beltway exit 26A), on Tuesday from 4 to 7 P.M. A
Funeral Mass will be celebrated in St. John the Evangelist, Hydes
Church, on Wednesday at 11 A.M. Interment in the church cemetery. In
lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. John the Evangelist,
Hydes, 13305 Long Green Pike, Hydes, MD 21082.
Published in the Baltimore Sun on 12/18/2006.

============ ========

Fri, 15 Dec 2006

Dear Friends,

I'm sad to report the death of long-time friend and fellow UA pilot Pete Aschkar.

After struggling with cancer for 18 months, Pete succumbed last Monday morning, 12/11.

A private service was held today in Seattle, WA.  I have fond memories of flying, skiing, socializing and
vacationing with Pete since 1973. Please keep Gail Hardt, Pete's wife (and active UA flight attendant) in your thoughts and prayers.

larry henderson

---- Original Message -----
From: Word2go@aol.com =  Dede Utzinger

December 11, 2006 8:43 AM

In memory of John Utzinger

My husband John passed away this morning after a long bout with anemia. His heart just gave out. He was 66 years old.
He was an incredible person who enjoyed life, loved to laugh and tell jokes, golf, fish, camp, cook, and hunt. He was a Marine, an Elk, had a 33 year career with United Airlines mostly at LAXCS, LL, CG, OO and FF; we built a house together at Big Bear with the help of our family, he put honor and respect ahead of everything else. He truly was a special guy and will be very missed by me, his 3 children Kim, Karen and JohnIII and 6 grand kids, and my 2 sons Chad & Bret.
There will be no services per his wishes, but his whole family will be together this week to celebrate his life. He left many great memories. Thank you all for your many kindnesses.

Dede Utzinger
LAXFO/CS
41620 Balaclava Dr. Bermuda Dunes, CA 92203

Nov.12,2006

It is with a heavy heart that I write to you of the loss of

Steven L. Dunnicliff  on November 8, 2006. He died after a lengthy struggle with
cancer that he fought with courage and determination. His passing was peaceful and at home with all his family around him. Steve was active
in ALPA during the 1985 unpleasantness and later in safety. He could  be counted on for his honesty and integrity. These qualities along with
his flying skill made him a top-notch captain and fun to be around.
Steve was an Army pilot in Vietnam prior to being hired by United. We were new-hires together in December 1969 and furloughed for 7 ½ years in June 1970. Steve kept track of the important things and kept me up  to date. He was there when I needed a friend to talk to, or needed
counsel. He loved a good joke and just listening to his belly laugh was  enough even when I missed the punch line. He was a great pilot, a
responsible citizen, a patriot, a loving family man and I counted him as a friend and will miss him.

Oct.24,2006

Our friend Capt. Bill Depner flew west for his final Check Ride

My friend Bill passed away on October 15. He almost made it to the
ripe old age of 91. Services will be held for him on November 4th at
11 AM at the Union Church in Hinsdale, Illinois. The church is
located on the corner of Garfield and Church street in Hinsdale.

Hope to see you there . . . Cliff (Sanderson)

Sept.16. 2006

Just received word that Buddy Joffrion passed away in his sleep. As you may know he suffered a stroke a few years ago. He and his wife resided in Santa Ynez. I have no further details at this time.
Rex May

Hi Arvid:

I don't know if you usually do this but I thought you might be able to put a notice in the RUPA website now so that anyone interested might see it in time to attend the memorial service.

Captain Ken Ellis, a popular retired United pilot, died on Sept. 22 and a memorial service will be held on Friday, Sept. 29 2006 at 1:00 pm. This will be at the Community Church of the Monterey Peninsula, 4860 Carmel Valley Road (one mile East of highway 1). The family requests in lieu of flowers that donations be sent to the American Cancer Society.

Capt. Bob Rice, retired

http://www.blockisl andtimes. com/news/ 2006/0902/ Front_Page/ 004.html

I just learned of this tonight of a boat accident involving Captain Jeff Peckham.

Jeff was in the 570, I recall, and I first met him in London during the TDY in December 1992- January-February 1993. He was one of the funniest guys I knew and was a riot to be around. During the time he was there, he met a British girl and I believe they came back to Massachusetts/ Rhode Island and had kids. I kept in touch with him for a time and I went west to Tahoe and we drifted apart.

He eventually made Captain and judging by the comments on the ALPA forum, he was well respected as a Captain.
I don't know any more than that except I know that young people are not supposed go leave this planet this early.
I hope any of you who might have been TDY or known Jeff can pass this around.

JIM MOREHEAD

July 28, 2006

I want to advise you that Capt Don Schwesinger was killed in an automobile accident in June 2006.

I do not know of any of the details.

Frank Zackary

Pilot gave lessons to aspiring aviators

By Kerry Lester, Daily Herald Correspondent
Tuesday, July 18, 2006

www.dailyherald.com/search/searchstory.asp?id=208791

Joseph A. Messina ~ 1926-2006

Joseph A. Messina never talked about going to work.

Instead, he always went flying.

The Air Force veteran and United Airlines captain brought his passion for the skies to others through the United Air Explorers, a division of the Boy Scouts which pioneered in teaching Chicago suburban teenagers about flying.

Mr. Messina, of Palatine, died July 13 of congestive heart failure. He was 79.

Born on September 20, 1926, in Portsmouth, Va., Mr. Messina served in the Air Force during World War II and the Korean War.

“He was stationed stateside in Texas and Mississippi where he taught servicemen to fly on T-6 planes,” said his eldest daughter, Dare Messina.

In 1946, he married his wife, Patricia. After leaving the Air Force, Mr. Messina joined United Airlines, where he was stationed in California and Colorado before moving to Chicago in order to fly bigger vessels. Mr. Messina taught three of the couple’s four children to fly.

“My brother Joe, who became a captain with Northwest Airlines, flew solo before he could drive a car,” Dare Messina said.

A spiritual man, Mr. Messina had a memorable conversation with a priest at St. Thomas of Villanova Parish in Palatine in the late 1960s.

“He always felt very blessed and fortunate about how his life had turned out; how he got to where he was at,” his son and former Air Explorer Joseph Messina said. “The priest suggested that my dad should go out and do something nice for someone else. That’s where the idea for the United Air Explorers came from.”

Mr. Messina started the club as a ground school to teach preparation to youths interested in getting their private pilots licenses. The 16 original members from Palatine and Fremd high schools ranged in age from 14 to 17.

Mr. Messina got a commitment from each member’s family to donate $100 in order to purchase a plane for the club to use. With the money collected, they bought a 1946 Aeronca 7-AC Champion.

Soon, Mr. Messina recruited some of his colleagues at United Airlines to volunteer their time.

“Over the United Air Explorers 20-year span, approximately 50 pilots and technicians volunteered,” Joseph Messina said.

As word spread, the club grew rapidly throughout the 1970s and early ’80s, eventually including more than 150 high school students and three airplanes. Flight lessons were given at the former Elgin Airport for $4 per hour.

Many former Air Explorers went on to become aviation professionals, never forgetting their starting lessons with Mr. Messina. One former Air Explorer, Alfred Haynes, was captain of United Airlines Flight 232, which was forced to take an emergency landing in Sioux City, Iowa, in 1989 after the DC-10 suffered a mid-flight engine explosion. Though the plane crashed during landing, 184 of the 289 passengers and 10 crew members survived. A passenger on the plane, Dennis Fitch — a DC-10 instructor and another former Air Explorer — assisted with the landing.

“Denny (Fitch) credited my father for his quick thinking,” Dare Messina said. “Of course, as usual, my father was very modest about it.”

After he retired from United at age 58, Mr. Messina developed a heart problem. Slowly, the club took on different leadership before it disbanded in the late 1980s.

In 2003, the Joseph A. Messina II Aviation Explorers Scholarship was founded at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale. Former Air Explorers Clarence Copping, Kerry Johnson and son Joseph Messina “got together and sold the 1946 Aeronca Champion plane that was used for lessons,” said David NewMeyer, SIU professor and department chair for Aviation Management and Flight.

“The money from the plane was donated to support students coming to SIU with a flight career goal.”

Mr. Messina was present when the first scholarship was given out. “He was truly a great mentor,” NewMeyer said.

In addition to his wife, daughter and son, Mr. Messina is survived by two more daughters, Robin and Cindy; nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
================

I received this tonight about Kirke Watkins.

I really liked Kirke. He was a MIA 727 CAP when I first met him in the late 60s. He was a funny man.
He had a nice nickname called LIGHTNING. He was the most calm and most deliberate man I think I knew. I know I did not ever fly with him,but he gave me a few jumpseat rides over the years. He was a classic MIA guy. Almost everyone in MIA had a name.... I know he moved up the state to Vero Beach and to Sebastian, FL which is right next door. There is a phone number for him and his wife Shirley in Sebastian.

I have no details, but here is the message from his daughter.

JIM MOREHEAD
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Hello everyone.....this is Kirke's middle daughter Nancy Watkins Lewis. It is with great sadness that I tell you my father passed away this morning at 12:25am. He remained in no pain, and just took a few short breathes, then slipped away. He was such a wonderful man.......my hero, my idol. I (we) will continue to love him and miss him our whole lives. He will be missed by so many. He was a king among men, a genuine man. Shirley is doing so well....... I on the other hand, keep falling to pieces, but this will pass with time. All the family (combined 9 kids) had the opportunity to see him before he went. I stayed with Shirley at the hospital around the clock, and we were both by his side when he passed. God bless all of you for your prayers, and your friendship.

Loving regards,

Nancy Watkins Lewis

Fred Thomas died on June 15, 2006. He was from Huntington Beach, CA.

When I first met Fred we were fluing DC3's out of Mdw. He moved to LAX a number of years later. I talked to his daughter,Terry Johnson.

She is also retired from UAL. Her phone no. is 847-925-0734. As I understand it, memorial services are pending possibly in No. Carolina.

Fred was a great guy to work with.

I noticed, sadly, that the new June RUPA NEWS announced that my old
shipmate and squadron buddy, Capt:  Dennis Daniel (LAX) passed away on May 12.
He was planning to attend a squadron reunion in Pensacola in Oct. If
anyone has any info about the cause and suddenness of his demise, please
contact me, privately. I'll have to pass the word to his old friends.

Regards,
Denis

"Hank" Maxwell

On the family farm south of Biggsville, IL. Sunday June 25, we said goodbye to our friend Hank Maxwell.
Family and friends all gathered to celebrate Hank's wonderful life, share stories and a meal.
The Lima Lima Flight Team, led by Capt. Bill Cherwin, made several passes, the last one, the missing man formation.
Capt. Jim McCusker read a very moving poem he wrote for Hank's family.
Hank was very special to me. I had the honor to have Hank fly with me on my retirement flight. Three days of wonderful memories that will last my lifetime.

Bob Kelly

"THE LAST FLIGHT HOME'

God's ready room was full of pilots
But He saw an empty place,
And looking through His Airline Logs
He saw your anguished face.

So He ordered out a DC-10
To help you fly away
From all that hurt and pain you felt
Throughout each long drawn day.

He wrapped United Wings around you
And gently lifted you on high,
To once more see Earth's beauty
Known only to those who fly.

But too soon your fuel was running low
And your Airliner couldn't climb,
So He slowly closed the throttle and said,
"Relax, this landing's Mine."

Now on approach with gear and flaps
And the checklists all complete,
Your final landing was a thing of beauty
A "Greaser" that couldn't be beat"!

At Heaven's Gate as you deplaned
God announced to the cheering crew,
"Captain Maxwell's" safely home at last,
His life's mission is all through."

It broke our hearts to lose you Hank
But your Last Flight wasn't alone,
For we all flew as your wingman
On that day God called you home.

Clear skies, Strong Tailwinds and Smooth Landings
[Capt.Jim McCusker]

We had a quick note only back in December. Here a bit more. ed AvN

----- Original Message -----
From: "natalie frayne" <natsy@webtv.net>

My cousin Noel Wroolie - LAXFO died December 12th, 2005 of pneumonia then cardiac arrest. He had been a pilot for UAL 33 years, He was 77 years old. He had been living in the Palm Springs area since retirement. Noel's son Eric Wroolie is a pilot for Clay Lacy and can be reach by email at captain.otto@verizon.net .Bill Treichel, April 17, 2006

Dear Arvid;

A celebration of retired United Airlines pilot Dave Fenner life (62) was held at the Green Valley Arizona Elks club on Monday, April 17, 2006. Dave was a long time Denver based pilot and took early retirement as a LAX B747-400 pilot in 2002. The family requests that donations be made to the Green Valley Elks lodge youth scholarship fund at 2951 So. Camino Mercado, Green Valley,
AZ. 85614

Dave Fenner died April 11 of an apparent heart attack in Green Valley Arizona.

Bill Treichel 4/14/06

From: Tommy T [mailto: tommyt514@gmail.com]
Sent: Friday, March 17, 2006 12:19A M
To: tobiasons@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Tom Tobiason:K enneth F. Tobiason 8/26/33 (Boston, MA) - 3/15/06 (Corona del Mar, CA)

Dear Family & Friends,

This is Tommy, oldest son of Ken Tobiason. Sad news. In stunned disbelief,  I now write you.

As many of you perhaps have heard by now, my Dad died yesterday morning. This afternoon I spoke with the Orange County Coroner's office which has now completed my Dad's autopsy. They believe that my Dad's cause of death was directly related to a fall possibly from a nearby ladder.T here was no evidence of a heart attack or stroke (we had thought perhaps this had been the case). The coroner told me that Dad died from a contusion and hemmorhage of the brain with a skull fracture. We believe that Dad didn't suffer and that it happened quite quickly. In a time devoid of cheer, we cling to this hope which is some small solace to us.

My Mom and the loyal neighborhood friend who found him - he had beenc utting down a large yucca tree at our next door neighbor's house (it blocked an oceanview from my folks' home and my Dad for years had wanted to cut the tree down & it only became an option when the old neighbors moved and the new ones allowed him to cut back the tree) - tried desperately to resuscitate him. But it was too late.

It's hard for me to describe how much he meant to my family & me. And it is hard to describe the immeasurable sadness we now feel.

Dad's health had been rebounding for the better after two tough years of surgeries (prostate removal; left knee surgery; right knee surgery; shoulder surgery...) which he good-naturedly soldiered through, though the pain at times was searing. He never complained.... Tough old Swede. The idea of repose never appealed to him perhaps because he thought our destiny is effort. And he went on without rest to the end. In ill health and in good he took his share of work, and more, without a hint of what it cost him until he died.

My Mom told him the night before he died how good he looked. He had made great progress in his physical therapy and now rejoiced in his newfound ability to walk normally again with his new knees. My Dad was always like a kid and he seemed to relish his ability to walk easily again no differently than when my young daughter Katie exulted in thef reedom she experienced when she too could walk.

All his life he projected a child's enthusiasm at everything he did. How full of energy he was! A lifetime burning in every moment. Those of you who saw him dance at various weddings, will know what I'm talking about. When they say you should live your life by "dancing like no one's watching"...surely they were describing Dad. As a teenager I dreaded watching him head for the dance floor to try out some newly minted (and crazily executed) dance "moves". In the fullness oft ime, and as I grew older, we'd exchange knowing grins as the band began to play. We all knew what was coming. Soon enough he'd take thef loor, the crazy legs flying in every direction, the "white man's overbite" & the rolling eyes & bobbing head - it was all over the top & you too were in on the joke and the joy. And if his dancing wasn't poetry then surely his attitude was: for *you* are the music while the music lasts. His childlike enthusiasm was electric, sometimes silly and always contagious: it invited & was greeted with laughter. Someonea lways has to start the dance.

As I say, lately, he was no longer in pain and it showed in his face which regained that inescapable smile we all remember. In his youth he had been a strikingly handsome & dashing man and we thought we saw, now again, the traces of that youthful vitality which never had really left him and now seemed, like Spring, to have blossomed with the promise of a future and invincible Summer.

From the way he lived life, I would say: that the joy of life is in living, in putting out all of one's powers as far as they will go; that the measure of those powers is the obstacles overcome, pushing boldly at what is in front of you, whether a fence or an opponent, aiming not for comfort but for challenge; and that one's final judge and only rival is...oneself.

In the last few years my Dad had told me that he wanted to be buried at Arlington National Cemetery, an honor reserved for those who have served our country with honor and with distinction. Dad had won the Silver Star in Viet Nam for gallantry in action. In our "postmodern" times, such words sound as if from some distant, possibly forgotten romantic age. All my life I had thought of him, in his youth, flying at the speed of sound, leading a flight of F-100 "slicks", thin metal-skinnedt ubes really, in air so thin you needed oxygen masks, speaking in thatt erse clipped language of fighter pilots, thundering above distant dark mountains & burning high over emerald seas.

And so he seemed to me like some knight errant or modern Viking...his cocky grin, his flightsuit, his helmet, his fearlessness, his physicalc ourage, his drinking songs, his exotic destinations from Libya to Paris, from Ramstein to Misawa, from Bangkok to the Korean coast, fromT aipei to Saigon, from Umbria to the Spanish coast, from Grecian Islands to Arabian deserts and Asian jungles, all the while chasing a boundless horizon.

Before me sit his combat medals and citations for bravery. Now he wills pend eternity with fallen heroes. It is fitting. He was always my hero.

So we are in communication with the administrators of Arlington. It appears that there may be a wait of several, perhaps even more, weeks before we can schedule Dad's funeral and burial there. I will make sure to keep you all posted once we have settled on details.

And now the book - with chapters that even a novelist of exceptional powers could hardly have dreamt - now closes for my Dad. A story of amazements & disappointments, of war and peace, of triumphs, of love and of much joy and of a family that loved him. What a life!

Who now to engage in goofy experimental kitchen recipes, combining homegrown mint and banana pancakes? Who now to relate stories of daring in North African desert skies? Who now to retell the same old jokes he'd told for 30 years? Who now to imitate the long-gone Swedish-inflected accents of Farfar, Farmor and the sounds & smells & sights of his youth so vividly you'd hear, taste, see, smell & swear that you were a mischevious lanky, blonde-haired boy growing up in 1930s-40s immigrant Boston? Who now to relate what it felt like seeing the flash of ground fire while flying through puffs of antiaircraft shot as it came toward you, rocked your fighter,k nowing that the next or the next shot carried your fate? Who now to talk of St. Exupery, of forgotten Latin, of gardening, of opera, of obscurep oets?

Looking across our yard I can now see that Dad's old ladder is fully extended, aimed at the heavens. Oh Dad! If what they say is true, it seems you met your fate falling from the sky, sharing that same final trajectory of stars and airmen!
To you who loved him and made his life the joy that it was. Thank you. For my Mom, Teddy & me now only unimaginable sadness and silence. And an empty chair at the head of our table.

With greatest pride & tears,

-- Thomas Hans Tobiason,
eldest son of Captain Kenneth F. Tobiason & luckiest son & brother in the world

Regret to inform all, that retired 747-400 Captain James K Bone made his final flight West yesterday, March 14, 2006.

Jim entered service with United at Midway Airport and spent most of his career at ORDFO.

Two services are scheduled: there will be a viewing on Friday, March 17, from 4:00 to 9:00 PM, at Hallowell and James Funeral Home, 1025 West 55th Street, Countryside, Illinois.,

and a Memorial Service on Saturday, March 18, at 1:30 PM, at Western Springs Baptist Church, 4475 Wolf Road, Western Springs, Illinois.

Jim and his devoted wife, Lonnie, have appreciated very much the memorable notes, calls and e-mails he has received from his many United friends during the recent months

of his battle with cancer. Cards or notes at this time may be sent to Lonnie at: 111 Acacia Drive, Apt. 108, Indian Head Park, IL 60525, or by e-mail to LoonieLonnie@yahoo.com.

An obituary will be posted here, and in the RUPA Bulletin in the near future.

Dick Frye

John Allen Fields. Jr. passed away on March 3, 2006, after a long illness.

Born on October 1, 1920, John Fields grew-up in Powersville, a small
town in Iowa.

With his immense curiosity and keen intellect, young John devised many"projects" from a lard bucket diving helmet to amateur radios and
model airplanes. The latter two developed into lifelong passions. While in Junior College in Centerville, Iowa, John trained to be a
pilot and served as a flight instructor during World War II. In 1942, John married his high school sweetheart, Polly Loughridge from
Unionville, MO, who passed away in 2002.

John Fields had a nearly 50 year career with United Airlines. After 36 years as a pilot, he could not retire his love of flying. He returned
to UAL as a flight engineer and then pilot evaluator.

John Fields and his family moved to Morrison, Colorado, in 1959. He built his home on a parcel of land near Tiny Town, which he had seen
and dreamed of owning years earlier.

John was a man of integrity, strong will, quiet kindness and good humor. He enjoyed spinning a story. He was an avid sailor and
genealogist, writing his own memoir - "Memories." Above all else, John loved his family and that love was deeply returned.

John Fields is survived by: sister, Jean Forrester; son, Joseph A.Fields; daughter, Peggy L. Fields; daughter, Linda J. Crowley;
daughter, Leslie J. Fields , grandchildren, Rebeca, Benjamin, John, Brandon, John, Tiffany, Brian Matthew, Kelly and Megan, and
great-grandchildren Jennifer, Keirnan, Zaccheus, Kaitlin, and Jacob.

A memorial will be held in his honor at 1:30 March 19th at his home in Morrison. .

Donations in lieu of flowers may be sent to the Inter-Canyon Fire
Department or the American Cancer Society.
===================================================

Feb 28, 2006

Hi Arvid, Mac Dunlap  passed away 2/20 after a long bout with cancer. He was about 75 (the obituary didn't say) and was in Denver including TK for a long time. He was well known in the tennis community here in Tucson. I sent an e-mail to Randy Ryan but he may be out of town and I don't know the protocol for informing you of deaths. You are doing a nice job with the website.
Mike Day

Feb. 19, 2006

I was just informed by Capt. Rex May that   Dave Tank,   a long time LAXFO pilot passed away  SAT. 2/18/2006.

He had been suffering from some circulation problems some time and apparently died from blood poisoning.

No services are planned. A family service will take place at a later date.

Ed.AvN

Feb 8, 2006

Jackie Abel who championed the causes of other widows of United Airlines Employees passed away at her home February 4th, in Huntington Beach CA. She was the wife of Captain Lou Able and a former Flight attendant Her death was caused by Cancer of the Lungs. Her home address has been at: Mrs. Jackie Abel, 16683 Bolero Lane, Huntington Beach, CA 92649

Jackie Abel who championed the causes of other widows of United Airlines Employees passed away at her home February 4th, in Huntington Beach CA. She was the wife of Captain Lou Able and a former Flight attendant Her death was caused by Cancer of the Lungs. Her home address has been at: Mrs. Jackie Abel, 16683 Bolero Lane, Huntington Beach, CA 92649
Then this;

The following was received from Jackie Abel's daughter Stephanie.
E.K. Williams
===========
Sent: Wednesday, February 08, 2006 10:42 AM
Subject: Jackie

Hi E.K.,

Thank you for your recent thoughts about Jackie and for helping to spread the word of her passing. Thought I would give you the info concerning her memorial service and request for donations. I have also sent this info to Cleve Spring. I really appreciate all of your help and support during this time. Jackie had many wonderful friends, and I am truly appreciative of that…

Stephanie

Dave Mann

Many individuals who either worked with or knew Dave Mann may not be aware that he passed away from heart problems on January 27, 2006 at 74 years of age. Dave had been a 37-year employee with Capital and United Airlines. The latter part of his career was in Flight Operations management. Dave retired in 1990 while in EXOCM - Crew Management.

Dave and Christa, who also worked at EXO, had lived in the Tellico Village community of Loudon about 15 years and were members of the Rocky Tops chapter. Both were avid boaters and Lady Vols fans. Christa will continue to reside at 223 Coyatee Shores, Loudon, TN 37774. Her telephone number is 865 458-4306. Memorial services for Dave were held February 4 at the Tellico Village Community Church. Jerry Barr TNBarrs@aol.com 865 458-0815.

Kel Carson, Captain, UAL Retired, died at 12:25, January 12, 2006 from cancer. He was at home with his wife Julie, at his side. A celebration of his life will announced at a later date. Sadly reporting, Larry Wright

*************************************************

***Virg Nolte was well known for his jokes and big smiles at LAXFO where he was chief of the office staff for many years.

*********************************************************************