Sue at the RUPA lunch at Dana Point.

Capt Frank Grona

Monday, November 30, 2009 5:28 AM

I had the pleasure of a LOT of months with Frank. All that's been said about his idiosyncracies is true! And his garage would certainly put any operating room to shame. The biggest automotive mistake I ever made was to not buy his 300 SE coupe when he offered it to me. The car was too nice to drive.

Frank wouldn't let Murphy and Hartelius make his uniforms. He would get the uniform "kit" from the manufacturer and turn it over to his special tailor in San Francisco. He told me it ran about $500 to get it custom made.(and this was in the late '70's) He also would not have been caught dead with the company issued suitcase and flight bag. He instead opted for an aluminum Halliburton suitcase and flight bag. He took me to dinner a few times....always "high end." I was a little embarassed that I couldn't reciprocate at that level.

I never saw the "Frank Grona makes hard landings" signs, but did see lots of "Frank Grona makes hard take-offs" notations... .usually under the aileron trim tab cover. Frank's flying was crisp, clean and "regulation. " He also had this quirky little habit of always cleaning the cockpit instruments during his preflight set-up. Frank was somewhat eccentric, very professional, a delight to work with and a good friend. Oh, one last thing.....when he retired, he remained completely "in character," as he purchased a Swan sailboat. He just wouldn't settle for second best.

----- Original Message -----
From: kenneth ernst
To: retup@yahoogroups. com
Sent: Wednesday, November 25, 2009 12:31 PM
Subject: Re: [retup] Capt Frank Grona has flown west

Amen, Super guy and great pilot. Also, a level 10 motor head, actually Mercedes made him a tech. rep. on the west coast. He was very serious, but had a sense of humor. Flew s/o on the DC6 with him. He practiced low vis approaches, so most of his landings were not great. There were signs all over the system that said, "Frank Grona makes hard landings" He and I were in the mens room in CLE., above his john there was a large sign, Frank Grona makes hard landings, he laughed. Ken

Capt: Frank McElhoes. 

Oct. 24, 2009. 

Dear MOGO Friends. It is with great sadness I have to tell you of

Frank's passing, caused by a fall from his wheel chair several days go.

Dottie assures us his passing was peaceful.

A Celebration of Life service with be held at the Silver Lakes Club House for Frank at 3 PM on November 8. Please RVSM to Esther McNamee (davisoresther@worldnet.att.net ) or myself of your attendance plans so we
can coordinate our mogo efforts (flowers, travel & etc.).

For many of us, Frank's friendship goes back to even our beginnings at
UAL. Which was the most fun: flying with him or playing golf with him?
His roots run deep in our mogo history and perhaps we can bring some
of our favorite stories of Frankto the service on November 8. Our
attendance will help support Dottie in=A0her time of need and perhaps, lend more meaning and understanding to our own lives.

Fondly, Lee Beck

PS.Dottie's address and phone is. Dottie McElhoes, P.O. Box 202, Helendale,CA.92342.
760 952-1749 (may not be currrent).

From: "moreheadjames@aol.com" <moreheadjames@aol.com>Add sender to Contacts
To: retup@yahoogroups.com

I thought some of you might like to know where a few UAL South Florida pilot friends are and how they are doing. With retirement we all get spread around the place. In no order is an update.

Bill Dutour is doing fine in Boca Raton. I try to talk to him when I can. He was MIA based 727 Captain and doing fine.

Pete Gallant is in Lauderdale and he's o.k. and hanging in there. Doing fine and he hopes to make the next Pompano Beach RUPA lunch which is November 11th in Pompano Beach at the Elks. We now hold them on Wednesdays.

Gene Brogan is living near where my MOM used to live. He is doing great and Gene was in Cleveland where we first flew together. Cleveland in winter for a Southern Boy is like a fish out of water, but we all made it. We lost touch with each other and reunited about 3 years ago. He is doing great.

John Bieger is doing o.k. considering and enjoys hearing from friends. He is in Boca Raton, FL and I got to see him with his family at my MOM's service a month ago.

Hambone (aka known as Alexander Hamilton) Wilson is doing fair at 92. I'm so proud of Hambone. He had an extra gall bladder earlier in the summer before he went to Alaska and decided to give it away and so it was removed and given to the highest bidder! He took a tumble recently and has some broken vertebrae, but he is well taken care of with his son JIM in MINN. Hambone hopes to be at the next RUPA luncheon in Pompano Beach.

I'd be happy to connect anyone with these more senior guys if you drop me an e-mail.

It is amazing where a career went in such a short time. Some of you oldies may remember when retired people got Positive Space First Class tickets with reservations to travel. I guess it was the IRS that spoiled this and I know the present management would never heard of this especially since the pilots even traveling to TK for training don't even get First Class today.

I am proud to have known these guys and you all and have spent my life in aviation. It is not the end yet <bfg>, and planning my next trip and looking forward to committing aviation once more. I'll create a separate thread about Australia shortly.

JIM MOREHEAD

From: DICK BODNER
Sent: Tuesday, June 22, 2010 6:50 PM
To: dickbodner@aol. com

Capt. Dave Peat's Final Flight

Dear Fellow S.E. Florida RUPA Members:

It is with great regret that I must inform you that one of our brother RUPA pilots has passed on.
Capt. Dave Peat died at home yesterday, Monday, June 21st. I talked with his wife, Sue, and found out that all of the family is with her. Dave will be cremated. The family is scattered with some living as far away as Hawaii and Washington State. Sue said that in a couple of weeks the decision of when and where to hold the Memorial Service will be made. She will contact me then and I will pass that information on to all of you.

Sadly,
Dick Bodner

Sent: Sunday, December 06, 2009 11:39 AM

Capt: Tom Lambrick

Tom passed away peacefully yesterday evening, he was at his beloved home and surrounded by his wife and children. Thank you for all the emails, your kind words and thoughts were appreciated, we read them all to him. We will be making arrangements today and will inform everyone with that information when we have it. Sincerely,

The Lambrick's

The time of the viewing and funeral are as follows:

Viewing: Thursday, Dec. 10th 4pm-8pm

Johnson Funeral Home
17720 Monterey St
Morgan Hill, CA 95037-3695
(408) 779-8456

Funeral:Friday, Dec. 11th 11am
Johnson Funeral Home and proceeding to
Los Gatos Memorial Park
2255 Los Gatos Almaden Road
San Jose, CA 95124

There we will be an Irish wake at the Lambrick home following the services.

Diane Lambrick
1830 Shady Hollow Dr.
Morgan Hill, CA 95037

phone 408-778-2718

In a message dated 10/22/2009 5:15:09 P.M. Pacific Daylight

Hey Leon...
Talked to Eileen and friend Jim Bowman today..Lee was awake on the ventilator and better but as you stated...still very ill.

Tim
Hope to hear more tonight or tomorrow morn.

Card and letters wouldn't be a bad idea. And prayers, if you are inclined to do such.

Lee & Eileen Wood
621 Paseo Campaneros Road
Chico, CA 95928

My good friend Art Anderson reported that Dick Salley has died. He was in EWR before he went out west to CA.


JIM MOREHEAD

ALGONQUIN - Capt. Thomas D. Boyle, 83, of Algonquin, passed away Thursday, Oct. 8, 2009, at Good Shepherd Hospital in Barrington.

He was born May 15, 1926, in Paw Paw, to Clarence and Daisy (Doctor) Boyle.

He graduated from Rochelle High School in 1943 and from Purdue University in 1949 with a degree in Air Transport Engineering.

He began working as a commercial pilot in 1952 for United Air Lines, where he continued his career as a captain until his retirement in 1986. He was married to Margaret for 57 years until her death in 2007. He was a family man with many friends who loved to fish, hunt and travel, particularly out west to Arizona, where he and Margaret spent many winters upon his retirement.

Survivors include his sons, Jeff Boyle of McHenry, Kurt Boyle of Algonquin and Mike (Laura) Boyle of Lakewood Ranch, Fla.; his daughters, Jennifer (Jerry Mock) Boyle of Moncure, N.C., and Jacque (Bob) Kenyon of Apex, N.C.; a daughter-in- law, Gayle Boyle of Oswego; five grandchildren, Corina, Steve (Callie) and Sean Boyle, Thomas Mock and Brittney Coleman; and his great-grandchildren , Angel and Cheyann Boyle.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife of 56 years, Margaret, in 2007; his sons, Gerald and Stephen; three brothers; and a sister.

The visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 13, with the funeral at 6:30 p.m.at Wait Ross Allanson Funeral & Cremation Services Chapel, 201 S. Main St., Algonquin. Graveside services will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14, at Lawn Ridge Cemetery, Rochelle.

From: "dhwilsman" <dhwilsman@aol.com>Add sender to
To: retup@yahoogroups.com

Tom Boyle was in my new hire class and was one number senior to me at MWD/ORD from 1952-1981, when I moved to LAX. He lived 4 miles down the Fox river from me. After eight years we were promoted to captain for one month after which the Capitol merger bumped us back 4 years. He was council chair in 1967 (followed by Dave Landry and Herb Leppke) and I was in 1970, 73, and 75. My recollection of the Convair incident in Iowa is a follows:
The control of the elevator was lost in cruise. It was caused by mechanics in EWR failing to proper safety wire the linkage to the elevator trin after they did some repairs. The trin tab became disconnected with its linkage and it set up such a vibration to the elevator that the elevator bell crank failed. After the successful landing in the snow, the crew was interviewed in the motel by ORD FM Art Kidder who handed the log book to Tom and requested that he complete an entry for the trip (as I recall, SOP was that Copilots made the entries in the log book and then had the captain sign). Tom liked to tell that he wrote "OK through" in huge letters across the page and handed it back to Kidder. The story was that Patterson gave the pilots $10,000 bonus each, paid the income tax on it since it was more than a copilot's annual salary, and gave the pilots and their spouses maybe a month in Hawaii on UAL.

Tom quit ALPA for his last ten years on the grounds that it bargained away some of the goodies he had put in place while he was on the MEC chair(even though he was required to pay a "Mainenance Fee" that almost equaled the normal dues). He actively supported the strike by helping to organize the support of the non-members on the system who had quit on principal.

He was one of a kind amoung my generation of UAL pilots. God Speed, Tom!

Thank you very much, Claude, for this post about Tom's passing!

Tom could be very obnoxious if you crossed him, but he had a heart of gold. I nicknamed him "Bear Boyle", and told him so. He smiled whenever I called him that. I think that is what many people thought of him, but were reluctant to tell him.

Tom was my first Captain that I flew co-pilot for. He told me that I was the "world's worse co-pilot", after a few legs. But after at least eight years, and probably more, of not using a yoke and rudder, I would have to agree with him. :) But he persisted, and helped me to hone my skills just nicely. I thanked him!

Tom was the co-pilot of the Convair that landed in an Iowa cornfield when the carbs iced up. The aircraft later became Mr. Patterson's "personal aircraft". Later, he liked to give training in engine out approaches. He thought that should be in every pilots repertoire.

He will be missed by at least one person... me!

George Howell

Date: Tuesday, July 6, 2010, 11:13 AM

Capt. Elmer N. Thompson

Dear Arvid:

I am writing in hopes that the attached obituary of my father, Elmer N. Thompson, can be published in the print and web versions of your RUPA newsletter. He flew 737’s and 727’s for United Airlines, flying the line out of Chicago, and also instructed at the United Airlines Training Center in Denver. He was with the company for sixteen and a half years, and I’m sure there are many who knew him. I hope this email is the best way to convey this information. Please let me know otherwise or if you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Rebecca Hicks

(719) 481-0452

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Capt. Jack M. " Pete" DeCamp passed away in Santa Monica, Ca on Sunday January 10, 2010 after a long illness. He was 86 years old. Jack was born December 31, 1923 in Glen Ridge, NJ to Marian and Howard P. DeCamp. He grew up in Verona, NJ. He graduated from Verona High School in 1941.

He joined the Navy V5 program in 1942 and taught flying. He graduated as a Marine 2nd Lt in January, 1944. After release from active duty in December, 1945, he joined the Marine Air reserve as a member of Willow Grove NAS VMF-451 Squadron.

He enrolled at Lehigh University under the GI bill and graduated in June of 1950.

He was called back to active duty during the Korean War. He flew 87 sorties in F4U Corsairs, 1/2 land based, 1/2 off of an aircraft carrier.

Upon release from active duty he joined United Airlines as a pilot, based in Newark.

He married Mary Campbell Kennedy of Kenilworth, IL. in May 1954. They resided in Morristown, NJ until June 1961 when they moved to GrandView on Hudson, NY with their two children, Ardis and Peter.

While there Jack served as a village trustee, police justice, and two terms a mayor of the tiny village. In June 1975 he and Mary moved to Los Angeles, California. After 30 years with United, he retired flying DC10's in December 1983. His family flew with him on his very last flight, from JFK to LAX.

He was predeceased by his brother Howard, Jr. He leaves behind his loving wife of 55 years, his two children , Ardis of Westfield, NJ and Peter of Los Angeles and two grandsons , Adam and David Perry, his sister Marjory, and several nieces and nephews. Jacks two other loves were golf and his 1957 Chevy convertible.

In lieu of flowers donations may be sent in his name to Meals on Wheels of Essex County or Mothers Against Drunk Drivers or The Gus LoSasso Scholarship at Lehigh University which Jack established for a classmate who was killed during active duty in Korea.

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

December 6, 2009

Capt. Frederick K. Duell,

Today a wonderful man, Frederick K. Duell, a true sweet child of God, took hold of the hand of his Lord to start his final journey, leaving behind so many who loved him dearly. Fred was born 75 years ago to Anna Marie and Theodore Duell in Port Washington, Long Island, NY. His first love was his desire to fly, to soar like an Eagle above all earthly things. While attending Rochester University as a pre-med student, he joined the ROTC and signed up for all programs relating to flying. When his father died in Fred's senior year, he decided to join the Air Force and fly. And fly he did, logging over 40 years with the Air Force and as a pilot for United Airlines. Fred lived his life with honor and dignity, always striving to give more than he took. His profound sense of duty, to his family, his country and his God, served him well and his humility helped him remember how small and insignificant we all are in God's scheme of things. He leaves his sister, Elizabeth Hernandez and her family; his son, Ted Duell, daughter-in-law Cathy and grandchildren, Chelsea and Ashleigh, Jeremiah, and great-granddaughter, Shyla; his daughter, Dina Webb, son-in-law Steve and three grandsons, Brandon, Ryan and Sean; and also his stepsons, Guy, Brian and Darren Stidham and their families to remember how much he loved them, and, although maybe not said enough, how proud he was of them. Many friends remain – friendships, both new and old that he held dearly, but none more than his wife, Barbara. From their beginning he was more than the man who loved her. He was her dearest friend, her caregiver, her teacher, the one who made her laugh, who brought silent tears of sheer joy to her with his music and his dreams. Fred's family wishes to thank the members of the Old Pueblo Flight of the Order of the Daedalians. Their friendship and camaraderie allowed Fred to extend his love of flying up and until he flew west. He served with pride as their adjutant for over five years. Fred was also a member of the Marksmen, a service group from St. Mark's United Methodist Church, a relationship that allowed him to constantly renew his strong Christian faith.

Services will be held on Monday, December 14, 2009, at 3:00 p.m. at
St. Mark's United Methodist Church,
1431 Magee Road,
Tucson, AZ

Arrangements entrusted to ADAIR FUNERAL HOMES, Avalon Chapel (742-7901).

Carl Hankwitz
chankwitz@mac.comFrom: "ch24241" <bibag@comcast.net>Add sender to Contacts
To: retup@yahoogroups.com

Capt. Thomas Judge

Date:
July 26th, 1932 - October 13th, 2009

Obituary:
Thomas L Judge, Sr. of Oxford died Tuesday, October 13th at his home after a long battle with cancer. He was 77. Born July 26, 1932 in Baltimore, MD, he was the son of the late, Arthur and Filexzena Judge. He was preceded in death by his three brothers.

Tom was trained as a Navy Pilot in his twenties and then began his commercial career in aviation with Capital Airlines which later merged with United Airlines. Tom retired from United in 1992 after 35 years with a total of 39,000 flying hours.

In addition to his love of flying, Tom's hobbies included hunting, fishing, boating and working in the yard. He also loved water skiing and snow skiing. Watching football and baseball was a favorite past time. Tom was a devoted family man who gained great enjoyment in sharing his love of the Chesapeake Bay and the outdoors with all of those around him.

Mr. Judge is survived by his wife, Ann Judge; 6 children, Karen Judge of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Thomas Judge, Jr. of Annapolis, Maryland, Timothy Judge of Perry Hall, Maryland, William Judge of Queenstown Maryland, Jerome Judge of Queenstown, Maryland and Sena Claxton of Greenville, South Carolina; 11 Grandchildren; three sisters, Patricia Fish of Severna Park, Maryland, Nan Smith of Chester, Maryland and Jeanne Beck of Chester, Maryland. He will be sorly missed by Wilbur, Orville and Amelia.

Memorials:
Sts. Peter and Paul Building Fund, 7906 Ocean Gateway, Easton, MD 21601

Services:
11:00AM at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church on Monday, October 19th, 2009 (map/driving directions)

Capt. Allan May  

of Cape Coral passed away peacefully at home on Friday, July 17th 2009, surrounded by his family. Al had fought a courageous battle with various medical issues for the past 3 years. Through it all, he maintained his hope, his graciousness, and his sense of humor.

Al was born in Toronto and always wanted to be a pilot since the age of 2. Following his dream, he began flying at 15. His professional flying career included Trans Canada (Air Canada today), a private corporate pilot, the youngest Captain flying materials in the arctic for the construction of the DEW line, and for Capitol/United Airlines, where he retired as a captain after 34 years.

He will be sorely missed by Joan, his wife of 50 years, his son, Matthew (Nancy) May, his daughters Mary (Tom) McCrork and Julie (Scott) Moyer. He also had four grandchildren, Tyler and Dylan May, and Isabel and Alaina Moyer, whom he loved.

Memorial services will be held at Faith Presbyterian Church, 4544 Coronado Pkwy., in Cape Coral, Tuesday, July 21 at 3pm. Memorials may be made to Hope Hospice at 9470 He

I met Al May while flying on the DEW Line operation out of Fort Churchill, Manitoba in 1955. There was a group of young Canadians who were hired as copilots and were quickly upgraded to captain. Al was probably one of the youngest ones. They didn't last long and a number of them made their way to the US and Capital Airlines was hiring at that time. I was surprised to meet him on the line one day in Detroit and we renewed our experiences up north.
Al May was a good friend and all the practical jokes he played made him one of the funniest people I have ever known. I remember when he took his wife skiing and she broke her leg. He laughed. Next year she broke the other leg and again he laughed. The following year, on their ski trip, he broke his leg and was off work for an extended period of time. He didn't laugh!
Al and Joan lived across the street from a fellow and his wife who did quite a bit of drinking and remembered very little of what happened during these episodes. He asked Al and Joan to watch their home while they were on a cruise. Another neighbor and Al decided to open the one car garage, jack up the car numerous times and orient it crossway inside the garage. When the fellow returned, opened the garage door wondered how he ever parked like that! He said he must have been pretty drunk to have accomplished that feat! Al and his neighbor watched for quite some time as he attempted to get out the car and went to his rescue just before he was about to wreck the garage!
A friend of Al and Joan's came to visit and he had the visitor to call the man across the street and tell him that this is Ray and Florence and you told us that if we are even in the area to come an visit. We are just a short way from your place and have decided to take you up on your offer and will be with you for a couple of weeks! The fellow said to his wife, Who the hell are Ray and Florence? She also had no idea as to who these "visitors" were but went to work cleaning and straightening out their house. Al and Joan were watching all this unfold and they waited about an hour and then grabbed a several bottles of wine and walked across the street to celebrate! We will all miss him.

Dick Russell

Neil O'Malley brought this to my attention. I flew with Al on the 727 in New York for many years while I was stuck flying side saddle.

Al was a pleasure to fly with. As Neil said to me, Al was one of the "good" guys.

Pete Sofman
============ =========
http://tinyurl. com/mpr339

Capt. PETER CECCHINELLI- Born Jan. 19, 1943,  - Monday,20May0A18, 2009.

FORT COLLINS, Colo. - Captain (United Airlines, retired) Peter Cecchinelli of Fort Collins died peacefully at home surrounded by his family, after a courageous 19 month battle with cancer.

Born in Rockford, Ill., to Frank and Catherine ???Betty??? Thatcher-Cecchinell i. Pete grew up in Rockford, where he graduated from West Rockford High in 1961. He graduated from the College of Aviation at the University of Illinois in Champaign in 1963. He flew for United Airlines for more than 37 years. He leaves behind his wife of 43 years, Karen; daughters, Lisa Cecchinelli and Laura Cecchinelli Barnes; son, Wade (Cyndi) Cecchinelli; grandsons, Devon Cecchinelli, Josh Cecchinelli and Trevor Henderson; granddaughter, Kelsey Barnes of Ft. Collins; sister, Elaine Thornton; nephews, Michael Thornton, Bradley Thornton of Louisiana; brother, John Cecchinelli; nephew, Frank Matthew Cecchinelli; and uncle and aunt, Lewis and Marilyn Moore of Rockford. Visitation from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 21, in Goes Funeral Care, 3665 Canal Drive, Ft. Collins. A celebration of Peter???s life at 11 a.m. Saturday, in Harmony Presbyterian Church, 400 E. Boardwalk, Ft. Collins. The family requests that any memorial donation please be made to the Food Bank for Larimer County or Pathways Hospice of Larimer County. Please go to goesfuneralcare. com to sign the guestbook and express your thoughts and memories of Peter.
Published in the rrstar.com from205/20/2009 - 5/26/2009

Capt. Cal Forslin

Arvid - Would it be possible to announce a memorial service for Cal Forslin on the website? Cal was based in SFO for nearly all his career with UAL and retired in 1995 on the B747.
He died last October and, it was not until recently that his daughter and sons decided to have a service for their Dad. It will be on 30th May between 1PM and 6PM at their
home. Their address is 708 Misty Ridge Circle. Folsom, CA., 95630.

Her telephone number is 916 983 8899.

I would appreciate anything you could do for his family in this matter.

Don Swift, retired Capt, UAL

Capt: John H. HOLM

John Holm, "the flying cartoonist," went to be with the Lord on Sunday March 29. He was 87. He is survived by Gloria, his loving wife of sixty-five years, son John, his three grandchildren; David, Allison and Mike, plus many nieces and nephews.

John was one of ten children; his parents, John and Anna Holm, were Swedish immigrants and dairy farmers in Rochester Washington.

John was a Marine Air Corp fighter pilot in the South Pacific during World War II and a transport pilot in the Korean War. He worked as a lumberjack in Southern Oregon after WWII and then joined United Airlines, piloting for 30 years.

John created the popular Woody's World cartoon for many years while flying for United and was dubbed "the flying cartoonist."

Upon retirement he kept busy designing and building homes including the renovation of the Friday Harbor Hotel on San Juan Island.

John and Gloria helped two Cambodian families gain establishment in the US as an expression of their strong Christian faith. John was a kind man of God who enjoyed fishing, carpentry, flying his seaplane and golfing. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

Published in the NWsource from 4/5/2009 - 4/6/200

Capt. JOHN R. (JACK) HANSON  d.2/28/09 (Age 91)

Jack Hanson Memorial Service - Sunday, March 14, 2009

MEMORIAL SERVICE SUNDAY, MARCH 14, 2009, 2 PM -5 PM
at the PORTOFINO INN,  260 PORTOFINO WAY
747 CAPT., UAL, (RET.) REDONDO BEACH, CALIF. 310-541-3031

PLEASE RSVP TO 310-541-3031. Go west on Torrance Blvd. to Catalina, turn right to Beryl, then left on Beryl to dead end at Portofino. Park in lot south of Portofino, $3.00 charge.

Daring Derringer Doubles the Fun (title)
Story and photos by Shirley Clark (Hanson

I wrote the following preamble for a story about the Derringer that I had Jack fly for his opinion, and it is the best description of him this many years later.
Story and photos by Shirley Clark Hanson
By Shirley Clark Hanson)

What do airline pilots do when they hang up their company hats? Some of them actually enjoy the mandatory retirement; but then there's Jack Hanson. He retired from United Airlines a couple of years ago (note: 1977) after 35 years and almost 30,000 flying hours, an authentic silver fox.

He really missed flying the 747s, but hadn't flown a light plane since the Waco he learned to fly in the Civilian Pilot Training program at the University of Illinois before hiring on with United.

So after "retiring," he checked out in a Cessna 421 and flew for Sun Realty for a while, shuttling personnel between company offices in Southern California. There wasn't enough flying time for him, so he checked out in a V35 Bonanza and the Part l35 air taxi pilot qualifications. For about a year he has been chief pilot for Bonanza Airlines, a charter service with headquarters at Torrance, and has been flying the V-tailers almost anywhere.

Both capable and affable, "Smilin' Jack" flies strictly by the numbers without seeming to. You'd fly with him anywhere. PRIVATE PILOT asked him to fly the Derringer for his opinion as a professional pilot.

(by Jack Hanson) The Derringer handles beautifully, is very stable at all operating speeds, and is responsive to the controls even at low speeds. During stall maneuvers, controllability is excellent, with no abrupt or violent, uncontrolled motions during the clean configuration stall, or with flaps and gear extened, for that matter.....................(for rest of story, see PRIVATE PILOT, June 1979).

From: Youngkwy
To: rupaweb@yahoo.com
Sent: 2/27/2009 4:47:01 P.M. Eastern Standard Time
Subj: to place an obituary

MY father, who died in 1987, Maurice Wight Wiley, a 37 year UAL veteran was also a longtime member of RUPA. His widow and my mother recently passed away and I would like to forward an obituary to your organization. Please advise as to how I can accomplish this and in what format.

I would appreciate any guidance you can give me regarding this matter.

Friendly skies to all-
Karen Wiley Young

Capt. Dave Arey

I just got back from a trip outside of the US and have learned that died on the 2nd.

I first met him as a kid in Norfolk and at merger time, I believe he went to EWR from ORF ( I was only 13 at the time), but he may have seen the Washington base for a time.) I know he went to EWR/JFK And raised his family there.

His wife was Betty and his son was Ricky. I recall vividly when his son Ricky was driving back from Nags Head and the Outer Banks and apparently the kids who were late teens fell asleep that night while driving. Ricky was killed in the crash. I had done this trip many times and even remember the bend in the road where it happened. It was late at night and it was a sad event as Ricky was their only child. I knew the pain the Areys had to suffer. Even as an adult, I know it more.

Dave eventually moved to Florida at Hobe Sound/Stuart, FL.

Last month I went to the Stuart luncheon and inquired about Dave and the guys only knew that he had attended the luncheon regularly and had recently gone up to NC to a medical facility. He died on February 2nd in NC where he was raised.

Dave was a tall wonderful gentleman within a year of my Dad's age and they both were in the Army Air Corp and knew each other at Capital.

He outlasted a few wives and he was one of favorite Captain friends even though we never flew together. He always followed my progress and was truly interested and for that, he's a guy I can never forget in life. May he find peace in his new surroundings.

JIM MOREHEAD

Capt. George H Simmon

Hello,

I am Douglas Simmons, proud son of   George H Simmons   retired United captain checking in to offer the sad news of my father's death. He passed away peacefully at 12:17 AM EST this past

Sunday, November 16.

I grew up an airline brat and loved that part of my young life I spent travelling by air in DC3's (sometimes in Dad's lap!!$%) DC6's, DC8's, 707's and (dad's favorite) the 727's. As a result of my many passenger miles logged at a relatively young age I developed a refined palate for smooth landings.
Like many of his colleagues he succumbed to cancer after a brave fight. He died peacefully in a Hospice House where his kids and grandkids were with him at the end. And, true to his heritage as a combat pilot and airline captain, he called the shots till the end. He cut out chemo two weeks before his passing, stopped eating by choice one week before, stopped all other meds one week before and spent his last six days communicating in a quiet whisper and then with eye contact and gentle hand pressure. Unusually, the day of his passing was a very mild day for November in New Hampshire, 65 degrees.
He faithfully read his RUPA newsletter until he could read no longer. His most recent copy is on the dining room table today. He loved his work and all the great pilots, crew and support staff he worked with. Many were lifelong friends.
Brewitt Funeral Home has a nice obituary posted and hosts a memorial page where you are welcome to share your thoughts. Because Dad was usually on his best behavior when Muriel and "the kids" were in the back I mostly heard about some of his more notorious gags second hand. Feel free to contact me and share them as well as old photos you may have scanned into your computers.
Caring for my mom was his job for the last 8-10 years. It is a measure of his dedication to that task that she is still with us today. She has suffered a number of brain injuries and insults over tyears that have resulted in stroke-like symptoms, hyrdro-cephalus and some cognitive impairments . She is mostly confined to a wheelchair but still gets out 3-4 times a month. She recognizes and converses with friends and families and loves watching movies. She visited with Dad just three days before his death while he was still able to speak his feelings. She is sad but surrounded by friends and family.

Thanks to all his old friends from United who supported him, flew with him, had his back and even butted heads with this stubborn old son of the Pennsylvania hills. We miss him and will always love and admire him.

Doug

The Funeral will be held at St Michael's Church, Exeter, NH, at noon on Friday Nov 21st. 11 Linden St. Exeter. and George will be buried at the nearby Exeter Cemetery (30 Linden St. Exeter)

Dale,

I have been extremely busy of late and think MAYBE this obit might have been sent -- but am sending you the info now just in case.

I received a call from Beverly Hopkins, a long time friend of

Marge Mitchell  (LAXFO clerk for years) to advise me that Marge died on October 13. Marge was a member of ReLAXers for probably 20 years (I've lost track!) but had her health had not permitted her to attend meetings for the past several years. She had enjoyed living in her townhouse at Marina del Rey for many years, and recently has had full time caregivers join her there.
After being in the hospital in September, her doctor had ordered hospice care for her, but she passed away just a few days after that was ordered. She has no next of kin

Barbara Smith, ReLAXers

Capt. Gil Chase

passed away on July 28, in Lewiston Idaho from cancer. He was a striking Continental pilot who came to work for united in 1985. He became a line pilot and did have a line seniority number, however he worked in TK most of the time. That way he was able to match more closely his lost status at Continental. He worked as a flight instructor in the DC-10 and 400 fleets before his retirement.  I knew him from the Orbis operation where he was a volunteer Captain for the last 8 years. He was a truly unique individual as was his flying career which ranged from flying boat captain for Catalina Airlines though many non scheds, Saudi Airlines, Continental and United. I have searched the obits from his home in Lewiston Idaho but there is only a small obit which tells nothing about this man's colorful life. Gil was one of the finest people I have ever known. I never spent a minute with him that I did not thoroughly enjoy. Gil was invaluable to the Orbis operation. He not only flew the Flying Eye Hospital but cleaned blue rooms, loaded equipment and checked out airports in third world countries to ensure that they could handle the DC-10. He left a wife, Pat a retired Continental Flight Attendant and two daughters. We will all miss him.

Jim Nugent

PS. I took the liberty of editing this story as I also knew Gil fairly well. He was the ALPA Safety Chairman in the late seventies and early eighties.  Even though Frank Lorenzo did him dirt he never lost his goal of improving safety. Later I even had a trip with him as he flew a line trip out of TK. I also met  him several times on lay-overs in NRT and HKG.     As Jim said he was a well respected great guy.

ed. AvN

Capt: Bert Jensen -

Sept 13, 1916 - June 28, 2008

At the early age of 15 in the 1931, Bert was taken for a ride in an airplane. The ride began a lifelong love of flying. He learned to fly and was hired by United Airlines, flying his first trip in January 1940. He retired from United after 36 years of service in 1976.

Bert certainly led a fascinating and full life both before and after. Many of us met Bert on one of his "Alpine Ski Tours" that he ran so well with Barbara, his wife. Skiing, flying, and his wife Barbara, were Bert's passions in life, and everything revolved around those three.

Bert was also a private pilot, always owning his own airplane, the last of which was a beautiful 1943 bright red Staggerwing Beechcraft bi-plane that he totally rebuilt and re-covered himself.

Over the next 37 years, Bert and Barbara flew the Staggerwing all over the United States, and Bert even raced it at the 1970 Reno Air Races. He had almost completed re-building a second 1943 Staggerwing. In fact he drove his beautiful red Porsche to the Truckee airport almost every day to work on the plane.

Bert is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Barbara, and his dear son, Martin, of Reno. He will be greatly missed.

Capt. Charles J. Raney

December 05, 1927 - August 15, 2009
Birthplace: Memphis, TN
Resided In: Amissville Virginia
Funeral Home: Moser Funeral Home
Visitation: None
Service: August 20, 2009

Charles J. Raney, 81, of Amissville, VA died Saturday, August 15, 2009 at his home. He was born in Memphis, TN on December 5, 1927. A career pilot, Chuck flew for the United States navy for 16 years. He went on to fly for United Airlines as a commercial pilot and retired after 33 years of service. He established Farfelu Vineyard in 1967. Farfelu Vineyard became the first licensed winery in the state of Virginia.
He is survived by his wife, Jinnie and his five children with his late wife Marilou Raney are Mauri Payne of Amissville, VA, Michael Raney of Cocoa, FL, Kevin Raney of Falls Church, VA, Jennifer Williams of Gainesville, VA and John Raney of New Orleans, LA. He is also survived by his 12 grandchildren, one great grandson and a sister, Ruth Ann McGavic of Port Charlotte, FL.
A memorial service will be held at 10am on Thursday, August 20, 2009 at Trinity Episcopal Church in Washington, VA.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be directed to either Trinity Episcopal Church, P.O. Box 299, Washington, VA 22747-0299 or Hospice of the Rapidan, P.O. Box 1715, Culpeper, VA 22701.
Obituary as published by Moser Funeral Home, Warrenton, VA http://www.moserfun eralhome. com/

Capt. Don Fuller
I received a call to day from Don Fuller's Wife. She informed Don died in his sleep Monday Afternoon. There is no public Obit and NO public funeral. Don was 73 Don flew his entire career at ORDFO.

Homer

Capt. Duncan Fleming

7/27/34 - 4/12/09

Dear Friends,

I am writing to let you know that Dad passed away last night at 7:15 PM. God chose a wonderful day, Easter, and a perfect time...just about 7:15 PM. He was at Naples Community Hospital in a private room with a view of the Gulf of Mexico. Though he could not see last night's beautiful sunset over the Gulf - Chris, Scott and I enjoyed it as we said the 23rd Psalm with Dad one last time.

On behalf of my brothers and Dad, I want to thank so many of you that emailed, texted, called or visited. It meant a great deal to all of us and I think it was those things that helped Dad cross over to his eternal life in peace and with courage.

We have planned a memorial service at the Naples United Church of Christ at 5200 Crayton Road, Naples, FL 34103. The service will be held this Thursday, April 16th at 2 PM followed by light refreshments at the church. A secondary service will be held later this Spring in Lake Geneva. Though this is not expected, please consider a donation to the Naples UCC's Building Fund in lieu of flowers. If you need to contact us, please use one of the emails above or call Deb at 630-918-4476.

I'd like to end this with the end of an email that I got from Chappell Wilson...it seemed sum up what we all hoped for Dad....

We pray that God has given him "clearance to land", "that weather is above minimums", "that he is on glide slope", "the landing gear is down and locked" and that "he puts his bird down on the numbers with a landing so smooth that it felt like a butterfly with sore feet".

We think that is exactly what happened.

God Bless,

Deb, Scott and Chris

 Capt. WILLIAM L. (BILL) THOMAS

Sorry to inform you of Bill’s passing on Jan. 7, 2009. For those of you who knew Captain Bill Thomas, you know what a kind and fine gentlemen he was. - He was also my boss as Director of Flight Operations in LAXFO, and the best boss- ever. He was also a good friend, big brother, and advisor, and if you ever needed a shoulder, he was there, too.

His management style was smooth, easy and fair - he always wanted to hear both sides before making any decisions. He had the ability to make you do and be your best - you didn't want to disappoint him 'cause you worked with him and not for him - very subtle, very effective and unique management style.

Bill transferred from DENTK to LAXFO where he retired. Before he arrived I spoke with his former secretary in TK. She was most unhappy losing him, but said I couldn't find a better boss - and he was handsome with a great sense of humor.. She was, Oh, so right! Then I met his wife, Pug (I call her Lucky Pug), and his family. So much love and strong family bonds. They are quite special, - as he was. I feel very honored and privileged to have known and worked with him.

He will be sorely missed - but so well remembered.

Donette LAXFO

From: Andy Anderson
Sent: Tuesday, February 10, 2009 1:13 PM

EK-

I regret to inform you of the death of Capt. Ed Menzer last evening, February 9th. No further details at this time.

Cards to:
Linda Menzer
PO Box 1325
White Stone, VA 22578

sincerely,
Andy Anderson

No Details of his death as of today.

[retup] More on Captain Duane Laughbaum

Funeral arrangements being made in Shelby, OH

Friday, February 13, 2009 1:13 AM
From: "moreheadjames@aol.com" <moreheadjames@aol.com>Add sender to Contacts
To: retup@yahoogroups.com

from Cliff Sanderson, via Jim Morehead:

message from Gerry Batty's widow:

Hope that I am directing this letter to the correct person. It
grieves me to inform you of the passing of my beloved husband, Gerry.

Gerald "Gerry" O. Batty

Gerry passed away on December 12, 2008 in Reno, Nevada. He was born July 24, 1922 in Carlinville, IL. He died in Renown Hospital after a short but courageous struggle with lung cancer.

He competed eight Years of school in a one room school house in Barnett, IL. Then graduated high school in Litchfield, Il, seventh in a class of eighty-eight. In September of 1940 he joined the Army Air Corps and served his country until the war ended in 1945. After being honorably discharged in Chicago, IL, he joined UAL as a mechanic and then later transferred to LAX. When UAL called for flight engineers he transferred to that position. Gerry obtained his pilot certificate when jets were introduced.

During the Vietnam War he flew UAL cargo flights there with supplies. He retired in 1982 as a 747 Flight Engineer.

After raising three children with his first wife he was divorced andlater met and married Ann in 1969. They spent their retirementbetween Lake Almanor, CA and Reno, NV. Gerry was an active member of
the Elk's Lodge in both Lake Almanor and Reno for 25 years. He was a Mason for 65 years and a member of the QB hanger in Reno. He was also a staunch supporter of the 99s of which Ann is an active member

He was preceded in death by his parents, Oral and Mabel Batty , and older brother and a younger sister. He is survived by his wife of 39 years. There are three children all in Oregon. There are eight Grand
Children and thirteen great grand children,

Regards,

Ann Batty
============ =========

From: "moreheadjames@aol.com"

Learned that Jim Wallace from my office EXOCM just passed on. Am sure you and any of the SSC will remember him as he blocked the initial B727 schedule for over 20 years. He started with Capital at Hangar 3 DCA routing office.

This from Don Collins who was at WHQ/EXO
>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> >>>>

JIM MOREHEAD
************ **

Capt. Peter Hansen

Capt. Arvi , I just received this from Pete's wife.
Wilhelm

From: Maryte Hansen [mailto:marytehansen@cox.net]
Sent: Sunday, December 07, 2008 9:48 PM

Hello Everyone,

I am so sorry to let you all know that Peter lost his fight with pulmonary fibrosis and died yesterday at UCLA in intensive care.

For the last year he has been trying hard to beat all odds and survive, but despite his courageous efforts, including a lung transplant and many associated complications, it became more and more difficult to breath until he was admitted to the hospital a week ago for the last time.

Karen, John and I were at his side at UCLA and he passed peacefully yesterday. We were able to spend his last conscience days with him and, to the end, he was joking and teasing – and being strong for everyone else. He was in no pain but his body just was not up to the battle any longer.

I want to thank you all for your support over the last year and for keeping in touch with Peter and brightening his days with your contact. We will miss him so much.

I have tried to email as many of Peter's contacts above, but if there is anyone above that you see missing, please let me know or forward this email. Thank you.

12/9/08

An informal service is scheduled for Peter on Friday the 12th of December at 1:00 p.m. at the O'Conner Mortuary Chapel. Please click here for directions.

After the service we invite you to our home for a reception to celebrate Peter's life. We will share light refreshments and memories. The address is 28291 La Plumosa. Please click here for directions.

At his request, Peter's final resting place will be in the waters off Dana Point.

Thank you in advance for your prayers and warm wishes.

Warm regards,

Maryte

949-643-8136

Capt. Roger Daniel Ide

passed away in peace at the Tidwell Hospice in Sarasota Fla., on Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2008.

He was 75 years old. Roger was born Sept. 26, 1933, in Corinth, N.Y. He graduated from Corinth High School in the Class of 1950. Roger worked briefly at the General Electric Co. in an apprentice program and earned the equivalent of a two-year degree. He was a member of the early Corinth Flying Club and entered the U.S. Air National Guard cadet training program in 1953. Roger went on to fly with the Guard and joined United Air Lines in 1955. He was a distinguished pilot, earning special recognition for a perfect safety record with United upon his retirement in 1993, after 38-1/2 years with the airline.

Roger was an avid sportsman, participating in several marathons, including the Boston Marathon. He was an avid triathlon participant, as well. Roger was well known as an expert skier and baseball pitcher, and during the last summer of his life earned his first hole-in-one in golf.

Roger had an ear for music and loved to play his banjo with his friends. He was well known and had many friends throughout the bluegrass music industry.

Roger is survived by his wife, Patti, of 53 years, his younger brothers, Raymond and Barbara Ide, of Hiawassee, Ga., and Phillip Ide and companion, Sandy Luke, of Rochester, N.Y., his two daughters, Geri Ide and husband, David Clemente, of Redstone, Colo., and Susan and John Jacobs, of Glens Falls, N.Y. and two grandchildren, Jena Jacobs, of Boulder, Colo., and Jake Jacobs, of Glens Falls, N.Y.

His father and mother, Nathan and Althea Ide, predeceased him.

A memorial Service will be conducted at 11 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 13, 2008, at the First United Methodist Church at 243 Main St., Corinth, N.Y. Friends and family may call from 10 to 11 a.m. Thursday at the church prior to the service.

A burial with military honors will be held at 1 p.m. following the memorial service at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville, N.Y.

The family wishes to express our sincere appreciation to his team of doctors: Dr. Bart Price and Dr. Peter Mayer of Sarasota, Fla.

Contributions in memory of Roger can be made to the Tidewell Hospice House, 5955 Rand Boulevard, Sarasota, FL 34238.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Densmore Funeral Home Inc., 7 Sherman Ave. Corinth, NY 12822.

Capt. Alexander G. Heller

July 20

From Bobbi Durham:

I pass this news on with deep sadness.

Judy Barteau's husband, AL Heller, passed away Sunday July 20 after a long battle with cancer.

They were an inspiration to me in their devotion to each other. He will be greatly missed.

The visitation will be on July 29 at Valentine's Funeral Home in Millerton ,NY. Hours 2-4 and 6-8.

Valentine Funeral Home37 Park St Millerton, NY 12546 (518) 789-4888

The funeral mass will be at 1000 on Wednesday July 30 at St. Patrick's Church in Millerton, NY.

Cards can be sent to Judy Barteau, #1 Pulver Rd, Millerton, NY, 12546
------------ --------- -----
From the Poughkeepsie Journal
Alexander G. Heller

MILLERTON - Alexander G. Heller, 78 of Millerton, NY died at Sharon Health Care, Sharon, CT on Sunday, July 20th...

The full obituary will be in the next Sunday and Monday editions.
Memorial donations may be made to the Millerton Fire Co. Ambulance Fund, Millerton, NY 12546...

Published on July 23, 2008.

Jim Biestek passes sad news of our former Navy Squadron mate and United brother.

Dear Denis,
I'm sorry to tell you Capt Jim Lovejoy passed away last night, July 3, 2008.
He was on a camping trip with his son Steve and and Steve's family, and  had just returned from a bike ride. Jim got off his bike and just  collapsed. They were at a close-in campground, right next to C-470, so  medical help was quick in arriving. Those at the scene gave immediate
CPR, but nothing worked. Carole had left the campground earlier and was  at home in Golden when it happened.

I've been asked to help with the arrangements. Jim's desires were for a military funeral and burial. She thinks he preferred the military cemetery at Pt. Loma. If you have any suggestions on the best way to proceed on this, please let me know, as I haven't any experience in this. But, I guess I'll learn.
Carole has said it is OK for people to call the house. 303-670-1030.

Would you please post this sad news on retup? Susan and I are on our way over to their house now and expect to be pretty busy there for awhile. Jim retired from UAL as a DEN captain. He also was a retired Navy Captain.

Jim

Capt. Charles E. Fox.

10-1928 - 5-10-08,

E.K., please spread the word on this: it's easier for you than me!

Just got off the phone with Chuck's son Rusty. Chuck did in fact die 5-10-08, as you said. This coming Oct. 19, he would have been 80 yrs old. He died peacefully at home, from a heart attack. He went down to the den, sat in his chair, and never came back up. (back in 2002, he had a 5 way bypass) He is buried at Spring Creek Baptist Church Cemetery; Farmville, VA. He leaves his wife Evelyn, 2 children, and 7 grandchildren. His wife Evelyn now lives with their son Rusty

As always, cards or calls would be appreciated:

Rusty's address:

Rusty Fox

9266 Prospect Ave

Catlett, Va. 20119

Phone: 540 788 4492

Clyde House

I have no details at this time. Some of the Vegas retirees should know more. The info I get from the Vegas paper says he died May 4th. I'm trying to find out more as I lived in Vegas for a number of years and heheld the RUPA group together for a long time. He was a very kind and charitable sort who loved the camaraderie of the RUPA group. He was 77 yrs old.

(Jim Price)

Capt: Jerry Laberteaux, age 70, passed away Monday, April 13, 2009 at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX.

Mr. Laberteaux was a native of Hobart, IN, grew up in Granada Hills, CA and was currently a resident of Carencro.

He was a past board member and past chairman of LEDA, was a board member of Pelican Park, a member of the Airline Pilots Association, Carencro War Veterans, Bonne Mort Society and a member of the Knights of Columbus.

He was also a veteran of the military having served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam Era.

Survivors include his wife, Judy Hutchinson, of Carencro; two sons, Jason Laberteaux and his wife, Emily, of West Hartford, CT and Jeff Laberteaux and his wife, Jennifer, of Carencro; one daughter, Julie Medina and her husband, Tom, of Clovis, CA; and six grandchildren.

Capt. Doug Nicholson

passed away March 23,2009 In OROVILLE CA.

WE AIRLIFTED DOUG HOME FROM MAYO HOSPITAL FRIDAY, MARCH 20. HE WAS ALERT AND ENJOYED HIS LAST FLIGHT, IT HAS BEEN ALONG HARD STRUGLE ON JURNEY TO FIND OUT WHAT WAS WRONG. HE HAD B-CELL LYMPHOMA. A-FIB. V-FIB, RHUEMATOD ARTHRIS ON AND ON, HE IS NO LONGER IN PAIN,

OUR LOVE, JOHNIE NICHOLSON

Condolences can be sent to Johnie and the family at:

JOHNIE NICHOLSON
373 Laurel Lane
Marysville, CA 95901

To All On The DCA RUPA List

Capt. Timothy G. O'Donnell

March 4, 2009

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I received an e-mail, yesterday, from Tim's wife, Barbara, informing me of the death of her husband.

The obituary follows:

Obituary - In The Herald Tribune
February 24, 2009

O'Donnell, Timothy G.

Feb. 17, 1934 - Feb. 21, 2009

Timothy G. O'Donnell, 75, Sarasota, died Feb. 21, 2009.
Visitation will be 1 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Wiegand Brothers Funeral Home. A memorial service will be 11 a.m. Saturday at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church.
Survivors include his wife, Barbara; stepchildren Michael Duspiwa, Terry Duspiwa, Gary Duspiwa, Cynthia Duspiwa; Kathleen Rodgers and Karen Ravetta; and dear friend, Gabe Marsico.

Cards may be sent to:
Mrs. Barbara O'Donnell
5020 Clark Road #515
Sarasota, FL 34233-3231
941-925-0592
tgo2030@comcast. net

Fraternally,

Jerry

Capt. Richard Devlin

Dick "flew west" on Friday morning, Nov.7th, 2008 with his beloved wife Mary Alice at his side. He was 83 years young. Dick was an AAF pilot  trained initially on invasion gliders during WWII and later on the P-51Ds which he flew in the Air National Guard out of McGuire. Dick was based at EWR until its closing and move to CLE. He and Mary Alice then moved to La Jolla, CA and he flew out of DEN and LAX on the B-767 until his retirement in 1985. Dick was a pilot's pilot and someone to be admired. He never did anything halfway and always aspired for excellence. After retirement in La Jolla, CA and a member of the Mission Bay Yacht Club, Dick and Mary Alice sailed their sailboat "Romance" in many regattas and trips to Encinitas, Mexico. Dick eventually traded his sailboat for a power boat and pursued the California Power Boat "predicated log" venue. He won the CA power boat championship and "Yachtsman of Year" and was placed third nationally with his son, David, in the National Championship!

Dick's involvement with the Mission Bay Yacht Club was total. He was elected Commodore of the club, formed the "Seagulls"

( a group of club members who tended to all maintenance concerns of the club ) and he was particularly involved with getting junior members involved in boating.
Dick also loved to party as anyone who knew him, especially at the
Mission Bay Yacht Club, would attest. He also got into "acting" in MBYC productions. To say Dick's retirement was retired is farthest from the truth! He was active right to the end.

Dick is survived by his wife, Mary Alice, his son David and wife Donna, two grand-daughters, daughter-in- law Barbara, his brother George and sister-in-law Joanne, and many nieces and nephews. Dick was predeceased by his eldest son Greg in 2006.

My wife Betty and I have been neighbors and friends of Dick and Mary Alice for thirty-eight years that have been full of good times and trips together. We have been more than friends, we have been family! To say that Dick will be missed is an understatement; but, we know, we will meet again. God speed Dick!

For those of you who wish to contribute a memorial gift, please remember the Juniors in Boating (JIB), Mission Bay Yacht Club, 1215 El Carmel Place, San Diego, CA 92109. The Memorial Service will be held at the Mission Bay Yacht Club on Sunday, January 4th at 3:00 PM.

Respectfully submitted by Jim Pifer, B777 Captain IAD( Retired 02/01/00 ).

Published in the Chicago Suburban Daily Herald on 2/17/2009

Kenneth W. Miles

Kenneth W. Miles formerly of Marengo. A memorial funeral service celebrating the life of Kenneth W. Miles, 69, of Knoxville, Tenn., will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 19, at the First Congregational Church, 900 S. Eighth St. (Route 31), West Dundee. The Rev. Dr. Donald Longbotton will officiate. Kenneth's family will be receiving friends from 2 p.m. until the time of the memorial service. Burial will be private. Kenneth touched the face of God Saturday, Feb. 14, 2009. Kenneth was an aviation enthusiast. He started his love of aviation flying models. After high school, he attended Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics to become an aircraft mechanic. He began his career in 1959 with Capital Airlines in Washington, D.C. as an aircraft mechanic. After a few months, he was furloughed and immediately hired by United Airlines in Chicago. In 1968, he transitioned to a pilot position, where he remained his entire career until retiring in December 1999. Besides training his son, daughter, wife, and friend Paul to fly, he passed his love of flying to everyone he met. "The family would like to extend our gratitude to the emergency staff of University of Tennessee Hospital and to the Thompson Cancer Survivor Center, a special thank you for an unsurpassed level of personal care and compassion." Survivors include his wife, Gerry Ann Miles; his children, Debbie (Ted) Clark and Ken E. (Lisa) Miles; his grandchildren, Samantha, Jason, Tyler, Alex, Olivia and Piper; and his sister, Susanna Orr. Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph Emerson and Margaret Miles; and sister, Gwen Ramsey. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Thompson Cancer Survivor Center Foundation, 1915 White Ave., Knoxville TN 37916.
The Miller Funeral Home, West Dundee, is assisting the family.

Condolences to his wife at:
Gerry Ann Miles
2987 Hodges Landing Drive
Knoxville, Tennessee 37920-8132

Lt. Col /UAL CAPT. Raymond J. Brooks, 78, died just before midnight on Thursday, 11 September 2008, at Spectrum Health in Grand Rapids MI. Ray was in the Michigan ANG from 1956 to 1971.
Ray will lie in state at the Mulder Chapel Dykstra Funeral Home, 188 West 32nd Street, Holland MI from 2:00 to 4:00 PM and from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM on Thursday, 18 September. The funeral home's phone number is 616-392-2348.
Ray's funeral service will be held at the St. Francis DE Sales Church, 195 West 13th Street (corner of 13th and Maple) in Holland, MI on Friday, 19 September, at 11:00 am. The church's phone number is 616-392-6700.

Lt. Col Louis J. Nigro

Capt. Samuel D. Woolsey 1932 ~ 2008

July 12, 2008

Fought against age limit for pilots
By John Schmeltzer | Chicago Tribune reporter

Samuel D. Woolsey, a retired United Airlines Boeing 737 captain, launched a second career fighting the Federal Aviation Administration' s mandatory retirement rule after he was forced out of the cockpit in 1992 because of his age.

Mr. Woolsey, 75, of Danville, Calif., had been based in Chicago in the early 1990s.

"Sam was the greatest historian of the fight for justice and
elimination of the FAA Age 60 Rule," said retired U.S. Airways Capt. Lewis Tetlow, president of the Senior Pilots Coalition, which continues to fight the rule. "I worked closely with Sam. He had volumes of historical data—not just court cases, but documentation on meetings and letters. He opened his files to me."

A member of the Contra Costa Mineral & Gem Society, Mr. Woolsey drowned Saturday, June 28, while rock hunting along the Klamath River in northern California, his daughter, Karen Lindfors, said.

Born in Alice, Texas, Mr. Woolsey did odd jobs at the local airport to pay for flying lessons. A U.S. Air Force pilot, Mr. Woolsey took his family to Pakistan in 1964 and 1965 and helped train Pakistan Air Force pilots.

In 1963, he was among four Air Force pilots chosen to fly the missing man formation, usually flown after the death of a military officer, for the funeral of President John F. Kennedy, his son David said. After his retirement from the Air Force, Mr. Woolsey flew the Pacific routes for Pan American World Airways before those routes were acquired by United in 1985. He joined United after the acquisition of the routes.

Mr. Woolsey received a law degree at age 64 and operated a Web site tracking efforts to overturn the mandatory retirement rule over the next decade, his daughter said.

He lived to see President George W. Bush sign legislation in December 2007 raising the mandatory retirement age to 65.

But Mr. Woolsey refused to accept it as a victory.

"To him victory will only be achieved when the age discrimination is
eliminated completely," Lindfors said.

Mr. Woolsey also is survived by his wife, Hazel; another son, Michael; and four grandchildren.

Services were held in California.

(Duncan Fleming)

From: "Edmatty" <edmatty@sonic. net>

It is with profound sadness that I let you know

Capt.Herb Crees   passed away this morning July 6th at age 86. As many of you know, with Mary's devoted help, Herb was tenacious in defying the effects of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

Herb and Mary have been long-time and dedicated members of OUR Club. I don't know the exact dates of Herb's career with United but do know he hired on as a mechanic and retired as a 747 captain -- quite an
achievement. In addition, he was a genuinely nice, loving, caring, witty man with a delightful sense of humor. And always that impish twinkle in his eyes. He is survived by Mary, two sons and a daughter.  He will be deeply and dearly missed.

I'll forward more information about services for Herb as soon as I hear. In the meantime, OUR Club will be acknowledging Herb's passing, and individual members may send condolences to Mary at

Mary Crees
1459 Shady Lane
Grants Pass, OR 97527

I am sorry to write that my beloved husband,

Capt. Dale 'Pat' Paterson passed away on May 28, 2008. He flew for United Airlines from 1957 to 1992. We were to have celebrated our 33rd anniversary on June 7 of this year.

Pat was in apparent good health right up until November 27, 2007, when he had a full knee replacement due to arthritis caused by an old high school pole vaulting injury. We went through all the required screenings, including having his dentist sign off on his health, and his Internal Medicine MD giving him a physical and EKG.

It was only after the surgery when he began to have some major problems, that we learned from the cardiologist who treated him that the resting EKG was meaningless in determining his ability to withstand the surgery.

He should have had a stress EKG.

The heart problems led to a stroke which was not immediately recognized by the ER doctors, and even though I was insisting on TpA, they ignored me and waited too long for a neurologist' s consult and lost the 3 hour window of opportunity. Consequently his recovery was very slow, and the paralysis on one side of his body was improving with physical therapy but in very small increments.

As soon as he was able to leave the hospital I brought him home. Home Health Care as provided by Medicare gives very limited services, but I will say the physical, occupational and speech therapists were wonderful. I had to privately hire 24 hour Certified Nurses Aides to help me care for him from February to the end of May. Pat was happy, gracious, patient and kind through this entire experience. He loved his
caregivers and they loved him.

One other note which may help someone, we had the Alpa sponsored Sentry Long Term Health Insurance, which has a 90 day 'qualification' period.

Unfortunately, the 90 days ONLY refers to days spent in a skilled nursing facility, or under home health care. All the many days in the hospital didn't count, so they never did have to pay at all. That same policy required you hire aides who are employed by a health care agency only, so you can't be reimbursed should you find some greataides at the
hospital, as we did, who came to care for him on their time off.

I hope the above may be of help to someone - don't agree to any major joint replacement surgery without a stress EKG. And don't be afraid to raise the roof and whatever else is necessary in an ER situation where your loved one is not receiving the care you feel necessary. The ER may
be one of the most important places to demand a second opinion right now!

Donald F. Mastrud, from Austin, Texas, born March 7, 1930 in Oak Park, IL, passed away on Sunday, June 22, 2008.

Joe Smierciak

Moderator's note: Don's photo can be seen at our RETUP photo album at:

http://tinyurl. com/56ama7
============ ========= =======
Donald F. Mastrud http://tinyurl. com/5u3wac

Following his honorable service to our country as a Marine and a Naval Aviator, Don enjoyed a 33-year career as a Captain for United Airlines before retiring in 1989.

Although Don began a valiant struggle with pancreatic cancer in early 2007, survived drastic surgery, radiation, chemotherapy and recently congestive heart failure, he tragically lost his battle to an aggressive bacteria that took his life on Sunday.

Don is preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Edith Mastrud, and his sister, Dorothy Simmons; and is survived by his six children: Karen Mastrud, Brian Mastrud, Debra Breder, Susan Parsons, Danielle Mastrud and Chad Mastrud; his sister, Jo Turk; seven grandchildren; and six great grandchildren. He was loved dearly by friends and family, and will be missed by all who knew him.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, June 27, 2008 at the Cook-Walden Funeral Home 6100 N. Lamar Blvd in Austin, Texas 78752

Verwayne L. ( Curley) Owen passed away on May 5, 2008.

Curley was born in Midland, Michigan, March 6, 1932. He was hired by
United in 1965 and retired in l992.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, BeBe, his daughter, Pam Owen Torell
who is a pilot for American
Airlines, and his son-in-law, Peter Torell, all of Aero Acres. Port St.
Lucie, FL.

A memorial service was held at Trinity Lutheran Church in Fort Pierce,
Florida on May 10, 2008.
A celebration of Curley's life was held at his home.

He is greatly missed.

BeBe (wife of Curley)

6/27/2008    Update from Jim McKinstry:

Well as promised(or threatened), here's my third, and latest medical update. It has been twenty seven days since I finished my last  radiation treatment and thirty one days since the last chemotherapy treatment.

Even after the treatment has stopped, it continues to work inside the body for weeks after. I was advised that it would take weeks to begin feeling better, and they were not lying!

The first few weeks, I had little strength or energy, and on the fifteenth day, I got as sick as I've ever been.

As I recovered from that, I broke out with shingles on my right arm. I didn't even know what shingles was but, I do now, for its a very painful rash that takes away almost all the strength in my arm and effects the nerve end inside the body.

This is along with my hourly, nightly, and daily battle with mucousitis. Mucousitis, is, as repulsive as it sounds, a constant build-up of a painful, slimy fluid in my mouth that requires me to be up three or four times a night, and some times, hourly, to clean out my mouth. This is a common problem with patients dealing with radiation or chemo therapy and a real nuisance.

This may sound like I am complaining, but a new friend and cancer survivor I have met on the Internet, says, just consider it, reporting and either way, its my right to do so.

The next few weeks I just spend waiting to take PET and CAT scans that will give the doctors a chance to see how all these treatments have done. I will anxiously await, when they can get this done, and see the results of our efforts. I can hope and pray that they have done well, and each, and every day, I hope to get feeling better. I will still have my feeding tube for another two months, but have kept my ability to swallow, as well, have part of my voice back.

A good friend has already brought me a bottle of wine (the bottle is way out of my league), and a funnel, but guess I'll wait till the feeding tube's gone.

Lynda and Jim have kept my spirits high, and done lots of what is my work, and I get better each day.

The doctors have said, I should have a good summer. I feel that it's the support of you, my friends, who have sent me such supportive E notes, called when I could talk,or visited when I could have visitors, and those who sent their prayers, that has done the most for my recovery. I appreciate each and everyone of you, and thank you for your kind thoughts. Thanks for your love and friendship.

Sincerely,

Jim

Capt.Thomas Coffey,

On Tuesday, May 27th at Inova Fairfax Hospital, Fairfax, VA, Tom was called for his final flight after a six-month battle with lung cancer. He was 73 years old. Tom retired in 1994 after 38 years as a pilot for Capital and United Airlines. He always kept his flight bag packed hoping the crew desk would call for one more trip.

He is survived by his wife, Deanna, three sons, Michael, Christopher, and Patrick, one daughter, Kathleen and son-in-law, Darin Barach, and two grandsons, Ryan and Conor Barach. Honoring Tom's wishes, the funeral is private and burial will be at Quantico Virginia Cemetery. The family is hosting a celebration of Tom's life on June 3rd from 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm at their home: 2529 Lakevale Drive, Vienna, VA.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his name to: Make-a-Wish Foundation of America, Attn: Donor Care Center, PO Box 29119, Phoenix, AZ 85038, or the American Cancer Society at 800-227-2345.

Verwayne L. ( Curley) Owen

passed away on May 5, 2008.

Curley was born in Midland, Michigan, March 6, 1932. He was hired by  United in 1965 and retired in l992.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, BeBe, his daughter, Pam Owen Torell who is a pilot for American
Airlines, and his son-in-law, Peter Torell, all of Aero Acres. Port St. Lucie, FL.

A memorial service was held at Trinity Lutheran Church in Fort Pierce, Florida on May 10, 2008.
A celebration of Curley's life was held at his home.

He is greatly missed.

BeBe (wife of Curley)

Percy Addison Wood

Percy Addison Wood, 88, died June 23, 2008. He was born in Oakland, Calif., and lived in Palm City. He was past president and chief operating officer of United Airlines, where he worked for 41 years. He was past chairman of the Mariner Sands Homeowners Association, former board member of Medic Alert Foundation and commodore of the Coyote Point Yacht Club in San Mateo, Calif. He was a member of Mariner Sands Country Club, Crossroads Yacht Club of Stuart and Mariner Sands Chapel. Survivors include his sons, Andrew Wood of Bedford, Mass., Robert Wood of Las Cruces, N.M., Richard Wood, of Cottage Grove, Wis., and Kenneth Wood of Weston, Mass.; nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Sherwood Wood. Memorial donations may be made to the Mariner Sands Chapel Fund, 6500 S.E. Congressional Way, Stuart, FL 34997. SERVICES: A memorial service will be at 2 p.m. July 10 in the Pavilion Room at Sandhill Cove, 1500 S.W. Capri, Palm City, FL 34990. Private services and burial will be at Mountain View Cemetery, Oakland, Calif. Arrangements are by Martin Funeral Home & Crematory, 961 S. Kanner Highway, Stuart.
UAL Timeline:
Dec. 13, 1978 Percy Wood is elected president of United Airlines; Richard Ferris is named chairman and CEO of the airline and president and CEO of UAL, Inc.

In early June 1980, United Airlines president Percy Wood received a letter — allegedly from a Mr. Enoch Fischer of Lake Forest, Ill. Fischer wrote:

United Airlines president,
Percy Wood (AP)

Dear Mr. Wood, I am sending copies of "Ice Brothers" by Sloan Wilson to a number of prominent people in the Chicago area, because I believe [this book] ... should be read by all who make important decisions affecting the public welfare."

On June 10th, Wood had just celebrated his 60th birthday when he received the parcel at his home in Lake Forest, Ill.

When he opened the book, a device concealed in its hollowed out pages exploded. Bits of metal and wood fragments flashed through the air piercing the first things they hit. Wood sustained damage to his hands, face and thigh, where a large chunk of metal had lodged.

Later, Postal Inspector Tony Muljat noted that the parcel had been addressed in green ink, and that the "wood" signature occurred four times in this bombing: It was addressed to a Mr. Wood, it contained wood pieces to act as shrapnel, and its publisher was Arbor House, whose logo was a leaf.

Oct. 29, 1981 James Hartigan, Sr., is elected president of United; Percy Wood is named vice-chairman; Richard Ferris remains airline chairman and CEO.

April 29, 1982
Richard Ferris is elected chairman of UAL, Inc. succeeding Edward Carlson, who remains on the board for a year before retiring. Percy Wood retires.

Original 5/7/2008   Jim McKinstry: To All my friends and a few of my enemies.

Since the letter I sent describing my medical problems, my treatment at the Ansuchutz Cancer
Center has started, and is well under way. This program is run by
the Univ. of Colorado and comes recommended as one of the top cancer
programs in the USA .My Doctor is David Raben a Radiologist
Oncologist, and Dr .Madeline Kane, a medical Oncologist. Dr. Raben
has said he will take good care of me, and said "we will grow old
together". (Hope he doesn't have some unknown medical problem). My
treatment consists of heavy doses of radiation five days a week,and
chemo therapy on Tuesdays, and multiple appointments during the
week. The actual radiation treatment last only 20 min. but after the
dive in and getting set up, five hours is about gone. Lynda /Jim and
Jerry Baer have been driving me to and from, with a few more
volunteers to be used in the future. I am tied down to a table
while a machine rotates around my neck/head. Some what
claustrophobic, but no pain. I have completed three weeks of
radiation today, of the six weeks planned, and progress is being
made. It turns out that I am very sensitive to the Radiation, and,
last week, had to slow things down, for I had the amount of burning
and damage they see at five weeks in which, I had, in just two. (
Guess you all know, I am just a sensitive sort of guy.) They have
seen a noticeable shrinking of the tumor on the back of my tongue and
I am hoping for the best. After the six weeks, we then start a
waiting game for eight weeks, and see how well things actually are,
as I return to "normal".
It will take about two months to get back to feeling some what
normal. The next three weeks will be the tough ones, with loss of
swallowing/talking, and lots of pain and sickness, I am not looking
forward to this, but the only thing I can do is go straight ahead and
get it over. I have been given such uplifts from your notes, and
support, and your prayers.The support of my friends and family, and
even a few strangers, has helped us, and will get us through this. So
again thanks! I would like to ask your support for Lynda and Jim in
the weeks ahead. She can use a break for a few hours, being with a
friend, or just some time for herself, to give her the strength she
needs to take care of me.
With your support and prayers, I'll make it.

Sincerely,
Jim McKinstry
5/9/2008

I am sorry to have to give you this unbelievable,
unfortunate information, but there is no other way
than to say that Ed Pogue has had a horrific accident
while cleaning his pool filter. He is in Stanford
Hospital but is not expected to live. I just got off
the phone after talking to Johanna and she asked me to
send out this information.

Evidently the top of the pool filter exploded and the
cover blew up hitting Ed in his head, which caused
severe trauma to his cranium. Earlier today, we were
told that he had been taken off life support, but that
turned out to not be true. They are keeping him on
life support until his son Eddie arrives sometime this
evening. The Doctors have told Johanna that they have
never seen such a massive injury to the head. Not
even some very severe shrapnel wounds that you would
expect from a war time injury.

She asks all friends to please keep Ed and the Pogue
family in their prayers. I will try and keep you all
updated when I get any more information. Once again,
Johanna has said that Ed’s passing is inevitable after
the life support is removed.

The Pogue address is 596 Utica Court
Sunnyvale CA. 94107

Their phone number is 408-738-2985 but she may not be
answering the phone at this time.

Johanna’s e-mail address is <Jpogue@cbnorcal. com>

Josephine Madden born in Chicago on August 23,1914 passed away May 14, 2008. She spent most of her life in Denver Co, retiring from United Air lines in 1977as manager of UAL's Credit Union.  She was the editor of the old Mainliner Magazine and then later the RUAEA newsletter.  Her remains will be taken to Mt Lindo in Colorado. A celebration of her life will be held for her friends, Thursday June 5, at the Doubletree Hotel 3203 Quebec street which is across the street from United's Training Center from 2:00PM to 5:00PM.

Contact Tom Goodyear for additional information.----- Original Message -----
From: TAGOODYEAR@aol.com
To: dtharper@inreach.com
Sent: Monday, May 26, 2008 11:28 AM
Subject: Jo Madden