In Memoriam
Obituaries for Whirly-Girls who are Hovering in Heaven
Some of the summaries below have been excerpted from local newspapers and online obituaries, and others have been written by Whirly-Girls. If you have an obituary of a Whirly-Girl to share, please email the webmaster at webmaster@whirlygirls.org.
Nancy Fitzroy
Dr. Nancy DeLoye Fitzroy, WG#73 passed away on January 15, 2024, in New York at the age of 96. The youngest of six, she was the first woman to graduate from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) with a Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering.
Nancy was internationally recognized as a mechanical engineering expert. She worked at General Electric for thirty-seven years, specializing in heat transfer and fluid flow research for application in nuclear reactor cores, gas turbines, space satellites, and other technologies. She held a range of positions during her tenure at GE, wrote over a hundred technical papers, and held three patents.
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Nancy was internationally recognized as a mechanical engineering expert. She worked at General Electric for thirty-seven years, specializing in heat transfer and fluid flow research for application in nuclear reactor cores, gas turbines, space satellites, and other technologies. She held a range of positions during her tenure at GE, wrote over a hundred technical papers, and held three patents.
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Nancy Fitzroy, continued:
She met Roland Victor Fitzroy, Jr. at General Electric, and they were married from 1951 until his death in 2004.
In 1986, she became the first female President of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. She received numerous awards for her achievements including the Achievement Award from the Society of Woman engineers, the Demers and Davies Medals from RPI, the Centennial Medal from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, and the Federal of Professional Women Award (1984). She was elected to the National Academy of Engineering, the RPI Hall of Fame (1999), and received an Honorary Doctorate in Engineering from RPI and an Honorary Doctorate of Science from the New Jersey Institute of Technology.
In 2019, the Admissions Building at RPI was renamed the Nancy Deloye Fitzroy, '49 and Roland V. Fitzroy, Jr. Admissions Building. The Nancy DeLoye Fitzroy and Roland V. Fitzroy Medal was established in 2011 by The American Society of Mechanical Engineers to recognize pioneering contributions to the frontiers of engineering, leading to breakthroughs in existing technology or leading to a new application or new areas of engineering endeavors.
In addition to flying helicopters, Nancy also enjoyed sailing, golfing, skiing, and traveling with her husband. They owned a Cessna 310 twin-engine airplane, "Nancy's Fancy." Author David Campbell wrote a book about Nancy entitled "The Little Girl That Could Do Anything," which can be accessed at the Troy Book Makers website. More information about Nancy can be found on her website.
In 1986, she became the first female President of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. She received numerous awards for her achievements including the Achievement Award from the Society of Woman engineers, the Demers and Davies Medals from RPI, the Centennial Medal from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, and the Federal of Professional Women Award (1984). She was elected to the National Academy of Engineering, the RPI Hall of Fame (1999), and received an Honorary Doctorate in Engineering from RPI and an Honorary Doctorate of Science from the New Jersey Institute of Technology.
In 2019, the Admissions Building at RPI was renamed the Nancy Deloye Fitzroy, '49 and Roland V. Fitzroy, Jr. Admissions Building. The Nancy DeLoye Fitzroy and Roland V. Fitzroy Medal was established in 2011 by The American Society of Mechanical Engineers to recognize pioneering contributions to the frontiers of engineering, leading to breakthroughs in existing technology or leading to a new application or new areas of engineering endeavors.
In addition to flying helicopters, Nancy also enjoyed sailing, golfing, skiing, and traveling with her husband. They owned a Cessna 310 twin-engine airplane, "Nancy's Fancy." Author David Campbell wrote a book about Nancy entitled "The Little Girl That Could Do Anything," which can be accessed at the Troy Book Makers website. More information about Nancy can be found on her website.
June Davis
June Davis, WG#41, passed away on August 20, 2023. She was 89.
She grew up in Massachusetts. Hoping to impress a boy when she was 16, she forged her parent's signature to solo an airplane and earn her private license. That experience started her aviation journey.
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She grew up in Massachusetts. Hoping to impress a boy when she was 16, she forged her parent's signature to solo an airplane and earn her private license. That experience started her aviation journey.
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June Davis, continued:
After college, June founded a flight school at Palm Beach International Airport in her early 20's. A proud member of the Whirly-Girls and The 99s, she became an FAA examiner and won many international air races, including two first-place finishes in the Women's International Air Race and the Powder Puff Derby. She flew aircraft ranging from seaplanes to 727s, her favorite being the DC-3. She received the Amelia Earhart Award and was featured on To Tell The Truth, Good Morning America, and 60 minutes. Her aviation achievements are immortalized in the Smithsonian.
In addition to the brokerage business she founded with her husband, June had a passion for snow skiing, sailing (she held a US Coast Guard 100-ton Captain's license), and dog rescue work.
Her daughter, Antares, says her mother's life serves as a testament to the fact that with passion, audacity, and determination, the sky is not the limit, but just the beginning.
In addition to the brokerage business she founded with her husband, June had a passion for snow skiing, sailing (she held a US Coast Guard 100-ton Captain's license), and dog rescue work.
Her daughter, Antares, says her mother's life serves as a testament to the fact that with passion, audacity, and determination, the sky is not the limit, but just the beginning.
Louise "Jean" Wilson
WG#32 Louise "Jean" Wilson passed away on March 4, 2023, at Meadowood Senior Living in Pennsylvania.
Born on March 16, 1926, she graduated from Temple University in Philadelphia and worked as a physical education teacher. She and her husband, James, both learned to fly and became the sixth husband-wife team to both earn helicopter ratings -- they both passed their checkrides on the same day: June 17, 1960..
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Jean Wilson, continued:
Jean started her aviation career by learning to fly in a Piper PA11 airplane. Later, she owned a Hiller 360, with an overhead cyclic. When designer Stan Hiller heard she learned to fly on that aircraft, he sent her a model of the Hiller 360. She and Stan are pictured at left with her helicopter.
Jean performed a variety of tasks in helicopters over the course of her career: she was the first woman to fly a Sikorsky S-61; she flew the S-55 for ferry flights and in Vermont for a ski-lift job, carrying poles, cement, and equipment up the mountain, and stringing cables for chair lifts; she performed agricultural spraying flights; she carried Santa Claus and Christmas presents to hospitals; she ferried a Vertol to Burlington, Vermont. Her husband was one of the founders of Heliair Inc., and she later became a member of its Board of Directors. They had a heliport in their backyard. She also flew seaplanes.
She was one of the Whirly-Girls who met President Kennedy and later celebrated the organization's 10-year anniversary by having tea with Lady Bird Johnson at the White House.
Jean was also an active member of the American Cut Glass Association, the National American Glass Club, and the founder of the Philadelphia area chapter of the NEAGC. She loved outdoor activities and traveling, particularly to Alaska.
Jean performed a variety of tasks in helicopters over the course of her career: she was the first woman to fly a Sikorsky S-61; she flew the S-55 for ferry flights and in Vermont for a ski-lift job, carrying poles, cement, and equipment up the mountain, and stringing cables for chair lifts; she performed agricultural spraying flights; she carried Santa Claus and Christmas presents to hospitals; she ferried a Vertol to Burlington, Vermont. Her husband was one of the founders of Heliair Inc., and she later became a member of its Board of Directors. They had a heliport in their backyard. She also flew seaplanes.
She was one of the Whirly-Girls who met President Kennedy and later celebrated the organization's 10-year anniversary by having tea with Lady Bird Johnson at the White House.
Jean was also an active member of the American Cut Glass Association, the National American Glass Club, and the founder of the Philadelphia area chapter of the NEAGC. She loved outdoor activities and traveling, particularly to Alaska.
Danna Henderson
On November 20, 2022, WG#31 Danna Kusianovich Henderson passed away peacefully at her home in Easton, Maryland, with daughter Lisa by her side.
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Danna Henderson, continued:
Born on May 22, 1934, Danna graduated from Capitan High School in 1947 as class valedictorian and enrolled at the University of New Mexico. She graduated in 1955 with a degree in journalism and a minor in archaeology. Danna became a reporter on the Albuquerque Journal and learned to fly at the long-gone West Mesa Airport. In 1959, she went to Washington, D.C. as a research assistant to Sen. Clinton P. Anderson.
She married Jack Henderson in 1960, and their daughter Lisa was born in 1961.
Danna’s career as an aviation journalist spanned over 50 years:
- She became a reported for the Albuquerque Journal.
- She started as a reporter for Aviation Daily and then became managing editor of American Aviation.
- She worked on convention newspapers, beginning with one for NBAA, and in 1967 published the first (and last) bilingual Convention News at the Paris Air Show in collaboration with Air et Cosmos.
- In 1973, Danna joined Air Transport World (ATW) magazine as managing editor. She later became a contributing writer working on, among other things, the World Airline Report and the ATW Daily News.
- She also worked as a freelance journalist, working at Transpo ’72 for ALPA and AFA, and producing a newsletter for Indian tribes.
In the early 1960s, Danna got her helicopter pilot’s license and joined the Whirly-Girls. She and other charter members met President John F. Kennedy at the White House.
Danna participated for many years in Whirly-Girls board meetings as an advisor and guide, and was very involved with the website. She also loved horses and was a champion barrel racer as well as a Life Master in Bridge.
She and her childhood friend Claire worked on projects documenting the history of the Fort Stanton Marine Hospital and Children of Fort Stanton. In 2005, the two put together a fabulous reunion attended by more than 60 Fort Stanton Kids and their families. Danna wrote in the Fort Stanton newsletter about the history of the fort and the Fort Stanton Kids who lived there between the early 1920s and 1953.
She is survived by her daughter Lisa Ray, grandson Jesse Ray (wife Lauren), great granddaughter Riley Magnolia Allison Ray, and brother John Kusianovich.
She married Jack Henderson in 1960, and their daughter Lisa was born in 1961.
Danna’s career as an aviation journalist spanned over 50 years:
- She became a reported for the Albuquerque Journal.
- She started as a reporter for Aviation Daily and then became managing editor of American Aviation.
- She worked on convention newspapers, beginning with one for NBAA, and in 1967 published the first (and last) bilingual Convention News at the Paris Air Show in collaboration with Air et Cosmos.
- In 1973, Danna joined Air Transport World (ATW) magazine as managing editor. She later became a contributing writer working on, among other things, the World Airline Report and the ATW Daily News.
- She also worked as a freelance journalist, working at Transpo ’72 for ALPA and AFA, and producing a newsletter for Indian tribes.
In the early 1960s, Danna got her helicopter pilot’s license and joined the Whirly-Girls. She and other charter members met President John F. Kennedy at the White House.
Danna participated for many years in Whirly-Girls board meetings as an advisor and guide, and was very involved with the website. She also loved horses and was a champion barrel racer as well as a Life Master in Bridge.
She and her childhood friend Claire worked on projects documenting the history of the Fort Stanton Marine Hospital and Children of Fort Stanton. In 2005, the two put together a fabulous reunion attended by more than 60 Fort Stanton Kids and their families. Danna wrote in the Fort Stanton newsletter about the history of the fort and the Fort Stanton Kids who lived there between the early 1920s and 1953.
She is survived by her daughter Lisa Ray, grandson Jesse Ray (wife Lauren), great granddaughter Riley Magnolia Allison Ray, and brother John Kusianovich.
Ruthanne Page
WG#274 Margot “Ruthanne” Page passed away on September 11, 2022, in Grants Pass, Oregon, at age 75. Ruthanne was an extraordinary woman in so many ways, and she delighted in talking with others about her latest adventures or interesting hobbies.
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Ruthanne Page, continued:
Ruthanne’s 30-year commercial helicopter flying career included working for an oil company above the Artic Circle in Alaska and fighting forest fires in western Canada and the United States.
Not only was Ruthanne an intrepid and highly experienced commercial helicopter pilot who flew a variety of makes and models of helicopters, but she had other useful skills as well. She was extremely knowledgeable about avionics, aircraft maintenance, auto repair, and photography.
One time while visiting a Whirly-Girl friend in Boise, Idaho, Ruthanne’s truck was hit by another motorist and needed some body work done. She took it all in stride, contacted a local aircraft maintenance shop, and convinced the shop owner to allow her to use his hangar, tools, and paint room to repair her truck so she could drive it back home. Ruthanne made friends wherever she went.
One of Ruthanne’s lifelong passions was genealogy. In researching her Page family genealogy over the years, she became somewhat of an expert on Canadian military history. Ruthanne was a proud Canadian who also held U.S. citizenship later in life.
Ruthanne had a lifelong love of learning, and even as a senior citizen, she was taking college courses for credit to learn more about digital photography or more about the latest topic that caught her interest. Her annual Christmas letters to friends and family were often 13 or 14 pages long because she wanted to share detailed information and/or photographs about the things she was currently excited about.
Ruthanne had a remarkable love for life, and she will be missed by all her knew her.
Not only was Ruthanne an intrepid and highly experienced commercial helicopter pilot who flew a variety of makes and models of helicopters, but she had other useful skills as well. She was extremely knowledgeable about avionics, aircraft maintenance, auto repair, and photography.
One time while visiting a Whirly-Girl friend in Boise, Idaho, Ruthanne’s truck was hit by another motorist and needed some body work done. She took it all in stride, contacted a local aircraft maintenance shop, and convinced the shop owner to allow her to use his hangar, tools, and paint room to repair her truck so she could drive it back home. Ruthanne made friends wherever she went.
One of Ruthanne’s lifelong passions was genealogy. In researching her Page family genealogy over the years, she became somewhat of an expert on Canadian military history. Ruthanne was a proud Canadian who also held U.S. citizenship later in life.
Ruthanne had a lifelong love of learning, and even as a senior citizen, she was taking college courses for credit to learn more about digital photography or more about the latest topic that caught her interest. Her annual Christmas letters to friends and family were often 13 or 14 pages long because she wanted to share detailed information and/or photographs about the things she was currently excited about.
Ruthanne had a remarkable love for life, and she will be missed by all her knew her.
Lora Trout
Lora Krystyna Trout, WG#2101, graduated with a degree in Forestry Fire Science from Colorado State University in 2013. She began a career in wildland firefighting on helitack crews which spanned over 12 years. During her wildland firefighting career, she achieved higher qualifications and became familiar with the responsibilities of a helicopter manager.
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Lora Trout, continued:
Working underneath and flying as a passenger during fire seasons is how Lora decided to become a pilot. She obtained all of her helicopter ratings in between fire seasons and flew tours before accepting a CFI and tour pilot position in Dallas, Texas. She was also the recipient of a number of scholarships through the Whirly-Girls: the 2021 Robinson R22/R44 Scholarship, the 2022 Garmin GTN & 500/600 Scholarship, Garmin GTN Essentials 2.0 eLearning Course Scholarship, Garmin G1000H NXi Fundamentals eLearning Course Scholarship, Garmin G1000H NXi Advanced-IFR eLearning Course Scholarship, and the 2022 Robinson R66 Scholarship.
Lora was grateful to participate on the Whirly-Girls Board of Directors as the Director of Media. She promoted the achievements of female pilots and highlighted those working toward their ratings, advertising both their successes and their struggles, showing any woman that she is capable of achieving her dreams of pursuing a pilot career. Lora also enjoyed fly fishing, weight lifting, paddle boarding, and kayaking.
Tragically, on March 25, 2022, Lora perished in a helicopter crash with her student, Ty Wallis. A celebration of her life was held on April 23, 2022.
Lora was grateful to participate on the Whirly-Girls Board of Directors as the Director of Media. She promoted the achievements of female pilots and highlighted those working toward their ratings, advertising both their successes and their struggles, showing any woman that she is capable of achieving her dreams of pursuing a pilot career. Lora also enjoyed fly fishing, weight lifting, paddle boarding, and kayaking.
Tragically, on March 25, 2022, Lora perished in a helicopter crash with her student, Ty Wallis. A celebration of her life was held on April 23, 2022.
Hazel Smothers
Hazel Lucille Ramos Smothers, Whirly-Girl #119, was born on November 22, 1929, on her grandparents’ ranch in Toro Creek, Morro Bay in California. She married Al Jordan, and they had three children.
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Hazel Smothers, continued:
Hazel was a restauranteur, developer of a mini shopping center, and the successful owner-operator of a deli-liquor store. In the 1960’s, Hazel earned her private pilot certificate, her multi-engine commercial certificate, and then her helicopter rating, joining the Whirly-Girls. She was also a volunteer for the San Luis Obispo Sheriff’s Department and assisted in many of their search and rescue operations.
In June 1969, she raced across the country in the Powder Puff Derby in her Cessna 172 with Wanda Ewing. They won first prize in their class. Hazel married Bob Smothers in 1986. Together they traveled the world: Spain, Russia, Europe, and much of Asia. They loved to dance and won prizes for jitterbug and big band swing. Hazel also took up tennis, skiing, and sailing, and loved the beach, finding and saving shells. She was a volunteer at Scripps Clinic and a member of several La Jolla women’s clubs. She was well-known for her smile.
Hazel turned over most of her papers related to her flying accomplishments to the San Diego Air and Space Museum where they are available for viewing by the public. She died on June 1, 2020.
Adapted from the obituary published by La Jolla Light on June 18, 2020.
In June 1969, she raced across the country in the Powder Puff Derby in her Cessna 172 with Wanda Ewing. They won first prize in their class. Hazel married Bob Smothers in 1986. Together they traveled the world: Spain, Russia, Europe, and much of Asia. They loved to dance and won prizes for jitterbug and big band swing. Hazel also took up tennis, skiing, and sailing, and loved the beach, finding and saving shells. She was a volunteer at Scripps Clinic and a member of several La Jolla women’s clubs. She was well-known for her smile.
Hazel turned over most of her papers related to her flying accomplishments to the San Diego Air and Space Museum where they are available for viewing by the public. She died on June 1, 2020.
Adapted from the obituary published by La Jolla Light on June 18, 2020.
Jessica Brandal
Jessica Brandal, Whirly-Girl #2216, became fascinated with flying when she was very small, but it did not occur to her that flying helicopters was an option until she was much older. She joined the Air Force right out of high school and took a flight crew position thinking this would satisfy her desire to fly. About four years into her enlistment, she flew as a passenger on a Black Hawk and became enamored; she deeply admired the pilots who commanded their aircraft with ease and knew it was all she wanted to do.
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Jessica Brandal, continued:
At the end of her six-year enlistment, after receiving the Air Force Achievement Medal and being awarded as the Cryptologic Language Analyst Mentor of the Year, she decided to make a career change and leapt out of the military right into helicopter pilot training. She obtained her private, instrument, commercial, CFI and CFII ratings and started working for Dodge City Community College in Chandler, Arizona as a flight instructor. She enjoyed teaching while building flight hours and considered it an honor to join the Whirly-Girls. Her ultimate goal was to work in firefighting or in conservation.
On October 1, 2021, Jessica and her student, Michael Papendick, experienced a mid-air collision with a Piper PA-28 airplane. The two in the airplane landed safely, but Jessica and Michael tragically perished in the crash. Jessica was 27. Her mother, Jennifer, asks for prayers for the family.
On October 1, 2021, Jessica and her student, Michael Papendick, experienced a mid-air collision with a Piper PA-28 airplane. The two in the airplane landed safely, but Jessica and Michael tragically perished in the crash. Jessica was 27. Her mother, Jennifer, asks for prayers for the family.
Virginia Seigel
Virginia Seigel attended Colorado University and learned to fly helicopters in the US Army. She served for 14 years as a helicopter pilot and in the Special Forces, working in the US, Germany, Korea, and Iraq. She was elected as City Judge in Havre, Montana in 2013, and later joined the US Border Patrol. Both a fixed-wing and helicopter pilot, she became Whirly-Girl #2034 in 2018. She loved music and played the guitar.
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Virginia Seibel, continued:
On June 17, 2021, Virginia was flying her 6-year-old granddaughter, Elise Lowrance, from Montana to California in her Piper airplane for a family celebration. Tragically, they both perished in a crash in the Deseret Peak Wilderness in Utah. The crash started the Morgan County Fire which burned over 500 acres.
Virginia’s daughter, Alexandra, describes Virginia and Elise: “They just were the most full of life people I’ve ever met and I think they would want everyone to just hold each other, to love each other, to put their phones down and go play with each other. I think they were wonderful, wonderful people that I want everyone to know. And I know they don’t have the opportunity to know them now, but those qualities were amazing and I want people to know that’s what they were like.”
Our hearts go out to their family. You can read more about Virginia Seigel here.
Virginia’s daughter, Alexandra, describes Virginia and Elise: “They just were the most full of life people I’ve ever met and I think they would want everyone to just hold each other, to love each other, to put their phones down and go play with each other. I think they were wonderful, wonderful people that I want everyone to know. And I know they don’t have the opportunity to know them now, but those qualities were amazing and I want people to know that’s what they were like.”
Our hearts go out to their family. You can read more about Virginia Seigel here.
Maria Rodriguez
Maria Rodriguez, WG#1183, was born in 1965 in Washington DC. In 1971, her family moved to St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands where they founded the well-known Rodriguez Auto Parts, a family-run business which still serves the Virgin Islands community. Maria attended college at UC Santa Barbara, studying linguistics and Japanese. Her husband, Nicolas Van Heurck, was a handsome young helicopter instructor from Belgium, who taught her to fly.
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Maria Rodriguez, continued:
They moved to St. Thomas, and she taught while raising two children. She then flew commercially with Air Center Helicopters and retrieved drones from the ocean for the US Navy. She also completed more than 1,000 skydiving jumps.
In 2011, Maria founded Caribbean Buzz, a helicopter company featuring yellow helicopters painted with smiley faces. Her company flew tourists – including Michelle and Barack Obama — as well as Easter egg drops, relief missions, emergency evacuations, search and rescue flights, and supply drops as needed. She also provided services for the disadvantaged and helped Santa Claus with his deliveries.
In addition to performing relief flights during hurricanes Irma and Maria, she also documented the damage to that area, and her photos were instrumental in conveying the devastation suffered by the region. It’s her dedication and heroism during these hurricanes that led to Helicopter Association International recognizing her as the 2018 pilot of the year.
Maria excelled in both her professional and personal worlds, approaching all things with fierce love and passion, whether that was with her family, her community, or her flying. And she did it all with grace, ease, and the trademark Caribbean Buzz smile on her face.
On February 15, 2021, Maria and her 3 passengers tragically died in a helicopter accident in St. Thomas. Her family has established the Maria Rodriguez Foundation at the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands to serve the youth of the U.S. and British Virgin Islands.
For more information about Maria and to contribute to her foundation, please go to https://cfvi.net/maria-rodriguez-foundation/
In 2011, Maria founded Caribbean Buzz, a helicopter company featuring yellow helicopters painted with smiley faces. Her company flew tourists – including Michelle and Barack Obama — as well as Easter egg drops, relief missions, emergency evacuations, search and rescue flights, and supply drops as needed. She also provided services for the disadvantaged and helped Santa Claus with his deliveries.
In addition to performing relief flights during hurricanes Irma and Maria, she also documented the damage to that area, and her photos were instrumental in conveying the devastation suffered by the region. It’s her dedication and heroism during these hurricanes that led to Helicopter Association International recognizing her as the 2018 pilot of the year.
Maria excelled in both her professional and personal worlds, approaching all things with fierce love and passion, whether that was with her family, her community, or her flying. And she did it all with grace, ease, and the trademark Caribbean Buzz smile on her face.
On February 15, 2021, Maria and her 3 passengers tragically died in a helicopter accident in St. Thomas. Her family has established the Maria Rodriguez Foundation at the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands to serve the youth of the U.S. and British Virgin Islands.
For more information about Maria and to contribute to her foundation, please go to https://cfvi.net/maria-rodriguez-foundation/
Beverly "Bev" Vetter
Bev Vetter, WG#459, of Acampo, California, passed away on December 17, 2020 due to kidney failure. She was 90 years old.
Over the years, Bev served several terms on the Whirly-Girls Board as Secretary and later as a Scholarship Director. As the first Whirly-Girls Historian, she devoted many hours to creating scrapbooks to preserve our organization’s history.
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Bev Vetter, continued:
In addition, Bev stored our Whirly-Girls sales merchandise, worked as a cashier in our HELI-EXPO merchandise booth, and made all the table decorations for our annual scholarship banquet for many, many years. Bev was very artistic and loved to do craft projects and sew aviation-themed tote bags.
Bev and her late husband Bob (both pictured at left) had a private airstrip on their property called Vetter Sky Ranch. They owned two airplanes and an Enstrom helicopter. Bev and Bob were always happy to have a Whirly-Girl drop by for coffee or for an overnight stay.
Bev’s personal involvement and contributions to the Whirly-Girls organization over the years cannot be overstated. She loved the Whirly-Girls, and we loved her. Bev will be greatly missed by those who knew her.
Bev and her late husband Bob (both pictured at left) had a private airstrip on their property called Vetter Sky Ranch. They owned two airplanes and an Enstrom helicopter. Bev and Bob were always happy to have a Whirly-Girl drop by for coffee or for an overnight stay.
Bev’s personal involvement and contributions to the Whirly-Girls organization over the years cannot be overstated. She loved the Whirly-Girls, and we loved her. Bev will be greatly missed by those who knew her.
Judith Stanton
Judith Stanton, WG#346, graduated from Hillsdale College in Michigan where she was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma. She was an Interior Designer and a model, and joined the Whirly-Girls after receiving her helicopter rating.
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Judith Stanton, continued:
Judith was the 2008 recipient of the Northeast Helicopters Flight Services Scholarship through the Whirly-Girls. She had many other interests including synchronized swimming and trick water skiing, and was a Volunteer Usher for the Broward Center for the Performing Arts for many years. She passed away on April 27, 2019. Her obituary may be viewed here.
Krista Holstrom
Krista Holstrom, WG#1650, was born on June 25, 1985. A woman with a broad range of interests, she worked in a number of positions, including as a receptionist, marketing assistant, and clinical aide. But her true passion was aviation.
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Krista Holstrom, continued:
Krista earned her helicopter private certificate in 2007 and joined the Whirly-Girls in 2010. Her talent for merchandise was quickly apparent, and after working with WG#465 Bev Haug-Schaffter in the merchandise booth at HELI-EXPO, she was elected as Vice President of Merchandise and held the position between 2013 and 2019.
Krista received the Survival Systems USA Aircraft Ditching Course Scholarship in 2012, the ForeFlight Pro Plus Subscription and Training Scholarship in 2018, and the Thurn-Herr Annual Advanced Training Scholarship in 2019, all through the Whirly-Girls. She was a runner up in the Jerry Trimble Helicopters Touchdown Autorotation Contest and volunteered at the Reno Air Races as well as at the airport during Burning Man. She was a huge fan of the Erickson Aircrane and aspired to work for the company, flying the Aircrane in utility work. In addition to helicopters, she learned to fly airplanes, including tailwheels, and worked at Iasco Flight Training, and later at Air Shasta Rotor & Wing. As an instructor, Krista provided free ground school for women.
Her buoyant spirit and charisma were well-known, and she was the life of the party. Her arms were the canvas for a range of tattoos which were created by her cousin, Dylon Sandstrom, and held great meaning to her, including a Whirly-Girl helicopter with diamond eyes. She also enjoyed hunting, fishing, and hanging out with family, friends, and her dogs.
Krista and her partner, Kevin Fore, often flew together in the Northwest in their Piper PA-14 airplane, N91449. Kevin, owner of Palo Cedro Heating and Air, was also an enthusiastic pilot.
On August 15, 2020, Krista and Kevin tragically perished in their airplane in an accident in Susanville, California. A celebration of life was held in their honor in Redding, California.
Krista received the Survival Systems USA Aircraft Ditching Course Scholarship in 2012, the ForeFlight Pro Plus Subscription and Training Scholarship in 2018, and the Thurn-Herr Annual Advanced Training Scholarship in 2019, all through the Whirly-Girls. She was a runner up in the Jerry Trimble Helicopters Touchdown Autorotation Contest and volunteered at the Reno Air Races as well as at the airport during Burning Man. She was a huge fan of the Erickson Aircrane and aspired to work for the company, flying the Aircrane in utility work. In addition to helicopters, she learned to fly airplanes, including tailwheels, and worked at Iasco Flight Training, and later at Air Shasta Rotor & Wing. As an instructor, Krista provided free ground school for women.
Her buoyant spirit and charisma were well-known, and she was the life of the party. Her arms were the canvas for a range of tattoos which were created by her cousin, Dylon Sandstrom, and held great meaning to her, including a Whirly-Girl helicopter with diamond eyes. She also enjoyed hunting, fishing, and hanging out with family, friends, and her dogs.
Krista and her partner, Kevin Fore, often flew together in the Northwest in their Piper PA-14 airplane, N91449. Kevin, owner of Palo Cedro Heating and Air, was also an enthusiastic pilot.
On August 15, 2020, Krista and Kevin tragically perished in their airplane in an accident in Susanville, California. A celebration of life was held in their honor in Redding, California.
Jerrie Cobb
Jerrie Cobb, a native of Oklahoma, learned to fly at age 12. She worked at small county airports after school and on weekends to gain flying experience and learn aircraft mechanics. At age 18, she became a professional pilot whose jobs included pipeline patrol flying, charter
flying, flight instruction, crop dusting and ground school instruction. She was Whirly-Girl #53.
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Jerrie Cobb, continued:
Jerrie worked as an international ferry pilot delivering USAF military fighters and bombers to countries around the world in her early 20s. She later set four world aviation records for speed and distance, and two for altitude.
In 1959, Jerrie was selected as the first woman to undergo astronaut selection tests. She passed all three phases of the grueling tests but was not allowed to fly into space because of her gender. Among her many awards and honors were the Amelia Earhart Gold Medal of Achievement, Pilot of the Year by the National Pilots Association, Captain of Achievement by the International Academy of Achievement, and the Bishop Wright Air Industry Award for “humanitarian contributions to modem aviation.” She also was awarded the Harmon Trophy as the world’s best woman pilot by President Nixon at age 42, and inducted into the Women in Aviation International Pioneer Hall of Fame in 2000. Her book Jerrie Cobb, Solo Pilot, published in 1997, details her flying adventures.
Jerrie earned her helicopter rating on February 12, 1965 and was best known for spending much of her life flying in the Amazon supporting humanitarian purposes. She died at the age of 88. You can read more about her life in the Houston Chronicle.
In 1959, Jerrie was selected as the first woman to undergo astronaut selection tests. She passed all three phases of the grueling tests but was not allowed to fly into space because of her gender. Among her many awards and honors were the Amelia Earhart Gold Medal of Achievement, Pilot of the Year by the National Pilots Association, Captain of Achievement by the International Academy of Achievement, and the Bishop Wright Air Industry Award for “humanitarian contributions to modem aviation.” She also was awarded the Harmon Trophy as the world’s best woman pilot by President Nixon at age 42, and inducted into the Women in Aviation International Pioneer Hall of Fame in 2000. Her book Jerrie Cobb, Solo Pilot, published in 1997, details her flying adventures.
Jerrie earned her helicopter rating on February 12, 1965 and was best known for spending much of her life flying in the Amazon supporting humanitarian purposes. She died at the age of 88. You can read more about her life in the Houston Chronicle.
Shannon Smith
Shannon Smith, WG#2005, became interested in helicopters while on a trip to Hawaii with her family during a helicopter tour. She said she vividly remembered the surreal feeling when they were no longer on the ground or moving forward. She was mesmerized by the ease with which the pilot handled the controls — it seemed so complicated but natural for her, like a choreographed dance.
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Shannon Smith, continued:
Shannon joined the US Navy as an aviation electronics technician and QA inspector. After her deployment, she left the military and worked as a Lead Calibration Technician. She was responsible for New England region calibration for all FAA locations, including airports and radar sites. She used her GI bill for flight school, and landed an internship at Gulf Coast Helicopters, which included acting as PIC during pipeline patrol. She also attended Embry-Riddle University.
Shannon received many awards for achievement, including being an Honor Graduate at the Center for Naval Aviation, the Casey Clark Memorial Internship at Gulf Coast Helicopters, and the Women of Excellence Award from Embry-Riddle.
She was also selected to receive the 2019 Survival Systems USA scholarship from the Whirly-Girls, but at age 26, her life was tragically cut short in a vehicle accident in January 2019.
Shannon aspired to be a gold seal instructor and mentor and always encouraged people to reach out and take hold of their dreams.
Shannon received many awards for achievement, including being an Honor Graduate at the Center for Naval Aviation, the Casey Clark Memorial Internship at Gulf Coast Helicopters, and the Women of Excellence Award from Embry-Riddle.
She was also selected to receive the 2019 Survival Systems USA scholarship from the Whirly-Girls, but at age 26, her life was tragically cut short in a vehicle accident in January 2019.
Shannon aspired to be a gold seal instructor and mentor and always encouraged people to reach out and take hold of their dreams.
Ethel Jones Sheffler
From the time Ethel Louise Jones Sheffler, WG#7, took her first flight in 1936 at age 15 to the day she died in 2018 at age 97, she remained passionate about flying. Like many young women of her era, Ethel worked several jobs to be able to afford flying lessons. In reminiscing about her first flight, Ethel said, “I got bit by the bug. When I got down, there was no way they could keep me on the ground.”
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Ethel Sheffler, continued:
After taking her first flying lesson in an airplane on July 23, 1942, Ethel amassed a total of 173 flight hours by the time she was accepted for training by the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) in December 1943. After seven months of training at Avenger Field in Sweetwater, Texas, Ethel received her WASP wings (44-W-5), and went on to log 500 flight hours in the next year flying BT-13s, AT-6s, AT-10s, and UC-78s.
When the WASP disbanded in December 1944, Ethel continued flying as a flight instructor and charter pilot in Illinois, New Jersey, and Tennessee.
In 1950, Ethel met Ira Sheffler on a blind date while visiting friends in Brazil. They were soon married and lived in Brazil for several years before returning to New Jersey.
Ethel learned to fly helicopters in the mid-1950s and became a charter member of the Whirly-Girls. She was the seventh woman in the world to earn a helicopter rating.
While taking some time off from flying to start a family, Ethel soon realized how much she missed flying. By 1960, Ethel returned full time to aviation as a chief pilot and flight instructor. By the time her three daughters (Sue, Sandy, and Linda) were old enough, she made sure they each learned to fly and obtain a pilot’s certificate before obtaining a driver’s license.
By the time Ethel retired as a flight instructor at age 83, she had accumulated over 25,600 hours, had flown in 49 states in the US, and traveled to all seven continents.
Ethel passed away in Appleton, Wisconsin on June 5, 2018, surrounded by family.
More information about Ethel Louise Jones Sheffler’s life can be found at the following:
https://waspfinalflight.blogspot.com/2018/06/ethel-louise-jones-sheffler-44-w-5-june.html
https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/postcrescent/obituary.aspx?n=ethel-louise-jones-sheffler&pid=189243819
When the WASP disbanded in December 1944, Ethel continued flying as a flight instructor and charter pilot in Illinois, New Jersey, and Tennessee.
In 1950, Ethel met Ira Sheffler on a blind date while visiting friends in Brazil. They were soon married and lived in Brazil for several years before returning to New Jersey.
Ethel learned to fly helicopters in the mid-1950s and became a charter member of the Whirly-Girls. She was the seventh woman in the world to earn a helicopter rating.
While taking some time off from flying to start a family, Ethel soon realized how much she missed flying. By 1960, Ethel returned full time to aviation as a chief pilot and flight instructor. By the time her three daughters (Sue, Sandy, and Linda) were old enough, she made sure they each learned to fly and obtain a pilot’s certificate before obtaining a driver’s license.
By the time Ethel retired as a flight instructor at age 83, she had accumulated over 25,600 hours, had flown in 49 states in the US, and traveled to all seven continents.
Ethel passed away in Appleton, Wisconsin on June 5, 2018, surrounded by family.
More information about Ethel Louise Jones Sheffler’s life can be found at the following:
https://waspfinalflight.blogspot.com/2018/06/ethel-louise-jones-sheffler-44-w-5-june.html
https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/postcrescent/obituary.aspx?n=ethel-louise-jones-sheffler&pid=189243819
Frances “Fran” Bera
Whirly-Girl #49 Frances “Fran” Bera started flying in Grand Rapids, Michigan at the age of 16. She funded her after school flying lessons using money she had saved over four years by skipping lunch. Fran walked into a flight school with $80 and told them she wanted to become a pilot. Her parents were unaware of her aerial endeavors until she needed them to sign off on her solo flight. They were surprised, but supportive. Thus began Fran’s 75+ year career in aviation.
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Hazel Smothers, continued:
During Fran’s long and varied career, she logged over 25,000 flight hours while ferrying surplus aircraft after World War II, flight instructing, running her own flight school, and flying as an experimental test pilot. At age 23, Fran became the youngest, and one of the first, female designated pilot examiners, but she could not begin giving flight tests until after turning 24, which was the minimum age at the time. For many years, Fran also was a sales and demonstration pilot for Beech and Piper Aircraft. She is credited with naming the popular Beechcraft Duchess airplane.
When asked about discrimination in the male dominated world of aviation, Fran said, “I was having so much fun getting paid for what I loved to do that I didn’t realize that I wasn’t ‘liberated.’”
Fran’s passion was air racing. She had been an avid air racer since the 1950s and was one of the sport’s “winningest” pilots. Fran flew the All-Women’s Transcontinental Air Race, nicknamed the “Power Puff Derby,” 20 times and won it a record seven times, placed six times, and showed four times. She also won, placed, or showed in 14 consecutive Palms to Pines Air Races. Fran successfully flew in the International Women’s Air Race, the National Championship Air Races in Reno, and the Great Race from London, England, to Victoria, British Columbia. Her numerous honors include the prestigious 2011 Katherine Wright Award from the National Aeronautics Association.
In 1993, Fran flew her Piper Cherokee 235 to Siberia “just for the fun of it.” Later, she traded her Cherokee for a Piper Comanche 260B because, she explained, “I’m getting older and need to get places faster.” Fran also completed a Citation Jet type rating as a 70th birthday present to herself. Fran often quipped, “I’m going to wear out, not rust out.”
Fran passed away on February 16, 2018, in San Diego, California. All who knew Fran loved and admired her not only for her flying skills and lifelong passion for aviation, but also for her quick wit and ability to have fun no matter where she was or whom she was with.
When asked about discrimination in the male dominated world of aviation, Fran said, “I was having so much fun getting paid for what I loved to do that I didn’t realize that I wasn’t ‘liberated.’”
Fran’s passion was air racing. She had been an avid air racer since the 1950s and was one of the sport’s “winningest” pilots. Fran flew the All-Women’s Transcontinental Air Race, nicknamed the “Power Puff Derby,” 20 times and won it a record seven times, placed six times, and showed four times. She also won, placed, or showed in 14 consecutive Palms to Pines Air Races. Fran successfully flew in the International Women’s Air Race, the National Championship Air Races in Reno, and the Great Race from London, England, to Victoria, British Columbia. Her numerous honors include the prestigious 2011 Katherine Wright Award from the National Aeronautics Association.
In 1993, Fran flew her Piper Cherokee 235 to Siberia “just for the fun of it.” Later, she traded her Cherokee for a Piper Comanche 260B because, she explained, “I’m getting older and need to get places faster.” Fran also completed a Citation Jet type rating as a 70th birthday present to herself. Fran often quipped, “I’m going to wear out, not rust out.”
Fran passed away on February 16, 2018, in San Diego, California. All who knew Fran loved and admired her not only for her flying skills and lifelong passion for aviation, but also for her quick wit and ability to have fun no matter where she was or whom she was with.
Edwina “Wini” Gronvold
Edwina “Wini” Gronvold, Whirly-Girl #23, was an Army nurse stationed in Korea when she first became interested in helicopters. Later, while stationed in Germany in 1955, she married Robert M. Gronvald, an active duty Army helicopter pilot.
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Wini Gronvold, continued:
Soon after they were married, Robert was killed in a helicopter crash, but that didn’t stop Wini from enrolling for helicopter flight training at Aetna Helicopters, Inc., in Etna, California. Wini already held a private pilot certificate for airplanes when she became a rated helicopter pilot on August 21, 1957.
As a civilian, Wini continued to work as a nurse in the Los Angeles area while also serving as vice president of the K. Rogers Aircraft Corporation in Lakewood, California, where a new type of helicopter was being developed.
In her last years, Wini resided at the Veterans Memorial Home in Vineland, New Jersey. Wini proudly served in the Army Nurse Corps Reserves, where she held the rank of Captain.
As a civilian, Wini continued to work as a nurse in the Los Angeles area while also serving as vice president of the K. Rogers Aircraft Corporation in Lakewood, California, where a new type of helicopter was being developed.
In her last years, Wini resided at the Veterans Memorial Home in Vineland, New Jersey. Wini proudly served in the Army Nurse Corps Reserves, where she held the rank of Captain.
Jean Tinsley
WG#118 Jean Kaye Tinsley was born on March 24, 1927 in San Francisco. She was deeply committed to aviation throughout her life. She earned an A.B. in Spanish, a B.S. in applied mathematics and statistics, and an M.A. in philology. She married Dr. Clarence Tinsley in 1941. Three children preceded her in death, and she is survived by three children, numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.
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Hazel Smothers, continued:
Jean began flying fixed-wing aircraft in 1945, balloons in 1961, and helicopters in 1965. She was the first woman to be rated in constant speed prop gyroplanes in 1976. She was deeply involved with the Whirly-Girls, acting as Scholarship Chairman, International Secretary, Executive Director (for 12 years), and then Executive Director Emeritus. She received the Livingston Award for lifetime achievement in 1994. She is also included in the book, Hovering: The History of the Whirly-Girls, International Women Helicopter Pilots.
Jean was involved in many aviation organizations, serving on the Boards of Directors for the San Francisco Aeronautical Society, the Hiller Aviation Museum, and the National Aeronautic Association (NAA) as well as the Whirly-Girls. She played major roles in the Helicopter Club of America (HCA), the National Aviation Hall of Fame, and the Western Aerospace Museum at the Oakland International Airport, and was a chairman of the Bay Cities Chapter of the Ninety-Nines. She was a US representative to the International Rotorcraft Commission (CIG) and a member of the Guild of Air Pilots and Air Navigators, City of London. And she was designated by the FAA as a Written Test Examiner and an Accident Prevention Counselor.
One of Jean’s proudest moments came in July 1973 when she was one of six women helicopter pilots on the United States competition team in the second World Helicopter Championships in England. She then acted as a US judge or chief judge for later world championship competitions. After competing in 1978, she worked diligently to found the Helicopter Club of America (HCA), and became the first woman president of the HCA.
In March 1990, the National Aeronautic Association (NAA) requested Jean to be one of the designated officials to observe and report on the XV-15 tilt-rotor program test flights when the tilt-rotor qualified for world record status. Jean was determined to fly the XV-15 after watching it perform. She became the first woman to pilot the tilt-rotor on April 12, 1990. Jean received numerous awards, including the Bell Helicopter Textron Award for being the first woman to pilot the XV-15 tilt-rotor (1990), the Distinguished Alumni Award from the University of California (1991), the NAA Elder Statesman of Aviation Award (1996), and in 1998, she was inducted into the International Forest of Friendship, a memorial dedicated to notable women and men in aviation and space exploration. She worked throughout her life to champion safety and advance women in aviation.
Jean died on April 26, 2017 at age 90.
Jean was involved in many aviation organizations, serving on the Boards of Directors for the San Francisco Aeronautical Society, the Hiller Aviation Museum, and the National Aeronautic Association (NAA) as well as the Whirly-Girls. She played major roles in the Helicopter Club of America (HCA), the National Aviation Hall of Fame, and the Western Aerospace Museum at the Oakland International Airport, and was a chairman of the Bay Cities Chapter of the Ninety-Nines. She was a US representative to the International Rotorcraft Commission (CIG) and a member of the Guild of Air Pilots and Air Navigators, City of London. And she was designated by the FAA as a Written Test Examiner and an Accident Prevention Counselor.
One of Jean’s proudest moments came in July 1973 when she was one of six women helicopter pilots on the United States competition team in the second World Helicopter Championships in England. She then acted as a US judge or chief judge for later world championship competitions. After competing in 1978, she worked diligently to found the Helicopter Club of America (HCA), and became the first woman president of the HCA.
In March 1990, the National Aeronautic Association (NAA) requested Jean to be one of the designated officials to observe and report on the XV-15 tilt-rotor program test flights when the tilt-rotor qualified for world record status. Jean was determined to fly the XV-15 after watching it perform. She became the first woman to pilot the tilt-rotor on April 12, 1990. Jean received numerous awards, including the Bell Helicopter Textron Award for being the first woman to pilot the XV-15 tilt-rotor (1990), the Distinguished Alumni Award from the University of California (1991), the NAA Elder Statesman of Aviation Award (1996), and in 1998, she was inducted into the International Forest of Friendship, a memorial dedicated to notable women and men in aviation and space exploration. She worked throughout her life to champion safety and advance women in aviation.
Jean died on April 26, 2017 at age 90.
Doris Lockness
Doris Lockness, WG#55, passed away on January 30, 2017 in California three days before her 107th birthday. She started flying in 1939, fitting in flight training while raising four children. As quoted by Village Life, she said, “Once they were all in school, I’d do the fastest housework you ever saw and then hop on my bike to rush to that little airport.”
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Hazel Smothers, continued:
Her flying became a source of conflict between her and her first husband, and they divorced. She later married Robert Lockness, and they were married for 52 years until his death.
Doris worked as a Liaison Engineer on the C-4 in World War II, and then flew airplanes as a member of the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP). After the war, she worked as a flight instructor, performed sightseeing flights, and participated in air shows around the country in her “Swamp Angel,” a Vultee-Stinson warbird.
All in all, she owned nine planes, and flew seaplanes, gyroplanes, hot-air balloons, and gliders as well as helicopters.
An aviation pioneer and strong advocate for women who fly, Doris was the 1996 recipient the Livingston Award from the Whirly-Girls. The OX-5 Pioneers presented Doris with the Legion of Merit Award, the Pioneer Women’s Award, and entered her in the Pioneer Hall of Fame. She received a certificate of honor from the National Aeronautic Association (NAA), the Elder Statesman of Aviation Award, and the Katherine Wright Memorial Award. Women in Aviation International included Doris as one of the 100 most influential women in aviation.
More information about Doris may be found here.
Doris worked as a Liaison Engineer on the C-4 in World War II, and then flew airplanes as a member of the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP). After the war, she worked as a flight instructor, performed sightseeing flights, and participated in air shows around the country in her “Swamp Angel,” a Vultee-Stinson warbird.
All in all, she owned nine planes, and flew seaplanes, gyroplanes, hot-air balloons, and gliders as well as helicopters.
An aviation pioneer and strong advocate for women who fly, Doris was the 1996 recipient the Livingston Award from the Whirly-Girls. The OX-5 Pioneers presented Doris with the Legion of Merit Award, the Pioneer Women’s Award, and entered her in the Pioneer Hall of Fame. She received a certificate of honor from the National Aeronautic Association (NAA), the Elder Statesman of Aviation Award, and the Katherine Wright Memorial Award. Women in Aviation International included Doris as one of the 100 most influential women in aviation.
More information about Doris may be found here.
Mitzi Ellis
Mitzi Gutheil Ellis, WG#109, died in Portland, Oregon on June 16, 2016.
Mitzi was the first Whirly-Girl to be an actress and had many do-it-yourself accomplishments, such as welding. Her husband was also a helicopter pilot.
She is shown at left in a Hughes 300 helicopter.
Charla "Sparkie" Gates Cannon
Charla Gates Cannon, WG#105, died peacefully at home in Denver, CO on June 6, 2013. Born in Denver on October 19, 1919, "Sparkie" was the daughter of Charles C. Gates, founder of the Gates Rubber Company, and Hazel Rhoads Gates.
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Sparkie Cannon, continued:
Sparkie attended Bennett College in Millbrook, NY and enjoyed travelling and gardening. During the years her family spent in Honolulu, Sparkie developed a love for the islands' flowers and a deep appreciation for Asian art and culture.
After earning her helicopter pilot certificate and becoming a Whirly-Girl, Sparkie flew Arnold Palmer, the winner of the U.S. Open at Cherry Hills, from Stapleton Airport to PGA headquarters in Cherry Creek.
Sparkie married Brown Woodburn Cannon in 1941 and raised three sons. Her business interests included Denver's first spa, aviation and agricultural pursuits in Wyoming, and gold mining. She was involved in a number of civic organizations in Denver, including the Denver Botanic Gardens, and the Denver Debutante Ball. The role she esteemed most, however, was that of wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.
Sparkie Cannon was survived by her sister LeBurta Gates Atherton, her sons Brown Woodburn Cannon, Charles Gates Cannon and Reynolds Gates Cannon, her daughter-in-laws Mardi Cannon and Maureen Cannon, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
After earning her helicopter pilot certificate and becoming a Whirly-Girl, Sparkie flew Arnold Palmer, the winner of the U.S. Open at Cherry Hills, from Stapleton Airport to PGA headquarters in Cherry Creek.
Sparkie married Brown Woodburn Cannon in 1941 and raised three sons. Her business interests included Denver's first spa, aviation and agricultural pursuits in Wyoming, and gold mining. She was involved in a number of civic organizations in Denver, including the Denver Botanic Gardens, and the Denver Debutante Ball. The role she esteemed most, however, was that of wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.
Sparkie Cannon was survived by her sister LeBurta Gates Atherton, her sons Brown Woodburn Cannon, Charles Gates Cannon and Reynolds Gates Cannon, her daughter-in-laws Mardi Cannon and Maureen Cannon, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Nancy Martin
Nancy Martin, WG #62, died December 3, 2015 at her home in Virginia. She was born on October 18, 1921 and grew up in New York. In 1941, Nancy married John Winston Graham, an Army Air Corps pilot who died during a training flight three months later. Fulfilling a promise to him, she earned her commercial and flight instructor ratings in November 1942 from the Embry-Riddle School of Aviation in Miami. She was then hired to train WWII pilots.
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Nancy Martin, continued:
In the 1960's, she added commercial glider and helicopter ratings and joined the Whirly-Girls. She owned two Cessna airplanes and kept her CFII current most of her life. She wrote articles for aviation magazines, periodicals, and published a short story in The New Yorker.
In 1980 at the age of 59, she graduated from Georgetown University and in 1981 earned her MS in the School of Languages in Arabic because she said it was the only under-enrolled course with space.
Nancy was a voracious reader and collected Italian, Spanish and German literature. She donated her collection of rare aviation books to the Beinecke Library at Yale and other institutions in her late husband's memory. She traveled widely, loved animals, and played tennis into her 93rd year.
Nancy gave her time and support to many charitable causes. She was devoted and generous to her friends and family.
In 1980 at the age of 59, she graduated from Georgetown University and in 1981 earned her MS in the School of Languages in Arabic because she said it was the only under-enrolled course with space.
Nancy was a voracious reader and collected Italian, Spanish and German literature. She donated her collection of rare aviation books to the Beinecke Library at Yale and other institutions in her late husband's memory. She traveled widely, loved animals, and played tennis into her 93rd year.
Nancy gave her time and support to many charitable causes. She was devoted and generous to her friends and family.
Helen Jost
Helen Jost, WG#139 of Glen Spey, New York, died on September 25, 2015, surrounded by her family. She was born on August 18, 1927 in Stonington Deer Isle, Maine.
After becoming a helicopter pilot, Helen owned and operated her company, Kennebec Helicopters, Inc., in Stewart Airport in New York. She was the first woman to operate a commercial power-line helicopter patrol service.
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Helen Jost, continued:
Besides being a Whirly-Girl and an early member of the 99s, she worked in a variety of contract jobs at a time when women helicopter pilots were rare: sightseeing tours off the Pan Am building in New York City and in the Hudson Valley; traffic reporting; powerline patrol; spotting fires for the Hudson Valley Fire Patrol; crop dusting; offshore transport to oil rigs in the Gulf of Mexico. She was the first to fly a sick child to Boston Children's Hospital before medical flights were established, and for fun she enjoyed flying Santa to the mall at Christmastime.
Helen was invited on the "What's MY Line" TV show where her answers stumped the panel. Ms Magazine covered her in a full magazine article. She also started her autobiography, "Skirts A Flying.” Her daughter, Aleta, continued her work using her mother’s scrap book and 40 years of diaries as a guide.
She was married first to the late Frederick Beltzer and second to the late Robert Jost, and had two children: Aleta and David. She will be greatly missed as an inspirational person, friend to so many, loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Her favorite quote was "Nothing ever stays the same.”
Helen was invited on the "What's MY Line" TV show where her answers stumped the panel. Ms Magazine covered her in a full magazine article. She also started her autobiography, "Skirts A Flying.” Her daughter, Aleta, continued her work using her mother’s scrap book and 40 years of diaries as a guide.
She was married first to the late Frederick Beltzer and second to the late Robert Jost, and had two children: Aleta and David. She will be greatly missed as an inspirational person, friend to so many, loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Her favorite quote was "Nothing ever stays the same.”
Jane Hart
Jane Briggs Hart, WG #25, died June 5, 2015 in West Hartford, Connecticut. She was 93.
"Janey" Briggs was born Oct. 21, 1921, in Detroit, Michigan. She learned to fly as a teenager and married Philip Hart in 1943, who later served as Senator (D-Mich.) between 1959 to 1976. Though married to a U.S. senator, Janey Hart sidestepped the role of the stereotypical political wife and exercised her influence in the local Democratic Party.
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"Janey" Briggs was born Oct. 21, 1921, in Detroit, Michigan. She learned to fly as a teenager and married Philip Hart in 1943, who later served as Senator (D-Mich.) between 1959 to 1976. Though married to a U.S. senator, Janey Hart sidestepped the role of the stereotypical political wife and exercised her influence in the local Democratic Party.
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Jane Hart, continued:
She raised 8 children, worked for equal rights, and was an aviation pioneer as the first woman in Michigan licensed as a helicopter pilot, flying her husband to campaign events in a helicopter. She was also one of 13 women who passed an astronaut screening test. You can read more about her here.
Marjorie Gorman
Marjorie N. Gorman, WG#93, passed away June 4, 2015. She was born in Ashland, Ohio, in 1925.
Marge was a commercially rated pilot and, as Whirly-Girl #93, was one of the first 100 women helicopter licensed pilots in the world. An avid aviator, Marge piloted aircraft across the Atlantic Ocean on four occasions. Read More
Marge was a commercially rated pilot and, as Whirly-Girl #93, was one of the first 100 women helicopter licensed pilots in the world. An avid aviator, Marge piloted aircraft across the Atlantic Ocean on four occasions. Read More
Marge Gorman, continued:
She was a past president of the Mansfield Aviation Club, and a member of the Ninety-Nines International Organization of Women Pilots.
The daughter of Jessie and Carrie Smith Newcomer, she was survived by her husband of 65 years, James Gorman; her son, Jeff (Shellie) Gorman; daughter, WG#293 Gayle Gorman Green (Rich); her sister, France Harned; and grandchildren plus many nieces and nephews.
The daughter of Jessie and Carrie Smith Newcomer, she was survived by her husband of 65 years, James Gorman; her son, Jeff (Shellie) Gorman; daughter, WG#293 Gayle Gorman Green (Rich); her sister, France Harned; and grandchildren plus many nieces and nephews.
Helen Katherine Miller
WG#30 Helen Katherine “Katie” Miller, formerly of Goshen, died Friday, Feb. 13, 2015 at her daughter’s home in Hume, Virginia. She was born February 23, 1923 in Wawaka to Harley T. and Mary Adeline (Eby) Inks. On December 24, 1941, she married Russell Lloyd Miller in Wawaka who died in 1970.
Katie worked as an office manager at the Goshen Municipal Airport for many years. She had a true love of flying.
She was survived by her daughter Gloria Bowman and many nieces and nephews.
Katie worked as an office manager at the Goshen Municipal Airport for many years. She had a true love of flying.
She was survived by her daughter Gloria Bowman and many nieces and nephews.
Joyce Failing
Joyce Failing, WG#145, was born in Los Angeles, California, in 1927 and died December 25, 2014. She was an accomplished helicopter and fixed wing pilot. Her career of more than 50 years saw her as an air race pilot, instructor and teacher.
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Joyce Failing, continued:
In addition to the Whirly-Girls, she was also a member of the Ninety-Nines International Organization of Women Pilots. Joyce obtained her pilot license at a very young age and volunteered her flying services during wartime.
She also made significant contributions to the Failing family business, Bun Boy Restaurants, headquartered in Baker, California. She was survived by her daughter, two sons, four grandchildren, and many other relatives.
She also made significant contributions to the Failing family business, Bun Boy Restaurants, headquartered in Baker, California. She was survived by her daughter, two sons, four grandchildren, and many other relatives.
Amber Lowery
Amber Lowery, WG#1364, flew EMS helicopters for Air Evac Lifeteam as did her father, Lee Christensen. She flew out of the Brownwood, Texas, base and lived near Rising Star with her husband and two small children. Amber began flying around 2003, and she worked as a helicopter instructor pilot as well as an offshore pilot before going to work for Air Evac Lifeteam. She was reported missing July 23, 2013.
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Amber Lowery, continued:
Michael Lowery, her husband, was arrested for the murder of his wife. Her remains were found on their property in Comanche County, Texas.
More information about Amber can be found on the Find Amber Lowery Facebook page. The Whirly-Girls community sends its love and support to Amber’s family and friends in the face of this terrible tragedy.
More information about Amber can be found on the Find Amber Lowery Facebook page. The Whirly-Girls community sends its love and support to Amber’s family and friends in the face of this terrible tragedy.
Gale Brownlee
Gale Brownlee, WG#141, died on Oct. 25, 2012 from complications after surgery. Daughter of the late Gladys Downer Feeley and John J. Feeley, Gale graduated from high school in 1944 and had a varied career in New York as a waitress, hat check girl, and photographer at the Stork Club, El Morocco, and the Latin quarter. During World War II, she joined a U.S.O. troupe entertaining our troops.
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Gale Brownlee, continued:
She later pursued a career as a photographer and runway model, performer in TV commercials, and designer with her own label. She became a commercial pilot at the Kingston Airport and worked as an instructor as well as flying fire watch over the mountains. She joined the 99s, flew in races in the Powder Puff Derby, became a Whirly-Girl, and ferried a plane as co-pilot to Nairobi, Africa. She was also an associate broker in real estate.
Gale worked to establish the first hospice in Kingston with Sister Mary Charles of the Benedictine Hospital. She proposed a heliport at the Benedictine Hospital, and as chairman of the helipad fund, saw it built. When Central Hudson tried to push forward a plan for a coal burning power plant with tall smoke stacks, she was able to arouse enough support to stop the project.
She was survived by her daughter, Ardis (Pixie) Brown, her sisters, Pam Marvin and Ellen Katz and her brother, James Feeley and wife Sue, and a large extended family.
Gale worked to establish the first hospice in Kingston with Sister Mary Charles of the Benedictine Hospital. She proposed a heliport at the Benedictine Hospital, and as chairman of the helipad fund, saw it built. When Central Hudson tried to push forward a plan for a coal burning power plant with tall smoke stacks, she was able to arouse enough support to stop the project.
She was survived by her daughter, Ardis (Pixie) Brown, her sisters, Pam Marvin and Ellen Katz and her brother, James Feeley and wife Sue, and a large extended family.
Dora Dougherty Strother McKeon
Dr. Dora Dougherty Strother McKeon, WG#27, passed away on November 19, 2013. A true aviation pioneer, Dora was one of only two women in the W.A.S.P. program in World War II to fly the B-29 bomber. She later worked for Bell Helicopters and became the 27th woman in the free world to earn a helicopter rating. She was also the sixth female in the U.S. to earn an airline transport rating. She retired from the U.S. Air Force as a Lieutenant Colonel.
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Dora McKeon, continued:
Dora was a licensed psychologist in Texas, a founding fellow of the Human Factors Society of America, and a member of numerous psychology, aviation, and philanthropic organizations. Her family anticipates final interment at Arlington Cemetery in Spring 2014.
Barbara Klein Remlinger
Barbara Klein Remlinger, WG #894, is hovering in heaven with her beloved husband Jon. A cardiologist in the Carson City/Tahoe area, Barbara also became involved with her husband in helicopter EMS, obtaining a part 135 certificate for medical charters.
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Barbara Remlinger, continued:
Barbara, who was already a fixed wing pilot, learned many of her flying skills in confined operations and high risk landings from her husband. She even mused about their soft spot for stray animals, noting that they often flew a homeless cat or dog home. The two were known among friends and colleagues as “the helicopter pilots” as well as being champions of air medical transport throughout Nevada.
She provided heart services throughout the Southwest area, transporting patients frequently to the Carson-Tahoe Hospital from areas as remote as Needles Hospital, CA, Bullhead City Community Hospital (AZ), St. George Hospital (UT), and Pahrump (NV), using her own Hughes 500C aircraft. Barbara closed her practice to care for her ailing husband who predeceased her.
She provided heart services throughout the Southwest area, transporting patients frequently to the Carson-Tahoe Hospital from areas as remote as Needles Hospital, CA, Bullhead City Community Hospital (AZ), St. George Hospital (UT), and Pahrump (NV), using her own Hughes 500C aircraft. Barbara closed her practice to care for her ailing husband who predeceased her.
Angela Michele Price
Angela Michele Price, WG #1353, was born on April 14, 1963, in Belton, TX to Butch and Nita Willess Cleveland. Angela married Larry Price on January 10, 2004. She graduated from Baylor University in 2008 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology. She had a variety of roles including helicopter pilot, car salesperson, piano teacher, clinic manager at Scott and White, and assistant at her husband’s medical practice.
Survivors included her husband, Larry D. Price, D.O., of Belton, her parents, her sister, Marie Young of Justin, her son, Stephen Secrest, of Tulsa, OK, her stepsons, Brandon Secrest of Belton, Jason Price of San Antonio, Justin Price of Temple, and one grandchild. She died in June, 2013 at her home.
Survivors included her husband, Larry D. Price, D.O., of Belton, her parents, her sister, Marie Young of Justin, her son, Stephen Secrest, of Tulsa, OK, her stepsons, Brandon Secrest of Belton, Jason Price of San Antonio, Justin Price of Temple, and one grandchild. She died in June, 2013 at her home.
Mary Eileen Kaehler Raub
Mary Raub, WG #56, died in May, 2013 at the age of 91. She was born in Albion, Pennsylvania to Leo E. and B. Marie Kaehler. She grew up in Girard and graduated from Kent State University.
She became a pilot while in high school and later received her commercial certificate with ratings for airplanes — both single and multi-engine, helicopters, and her instrument instructor certificate. She also had certification for maintenance of aircraft and engines.
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She became a pilot while in high school and later received her commercial certificate with ratings for airplanes — both single and multi-engine, helicopters, and her instrument instructor certificate. She also had certification for maintenance of aircraft and engines.
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Mary Raub, continued:
Mary worked as a flight instructor at the former Fairview Airport prior to becoming the co-owner and manager of the former Erie Institute of Aeronautics, a large flight training school at the former Kearsarge air-port. An extensive fire destroyed the buildings and closed the school in 1948. She was also the owner and operator of Erie’s Copter Service.
Mary was the first woman helicopter instructor for the U.S. Army at Ft. Rucker, Alabama. She was an FAA Inspector and an accident and violations specialist. She worked on the National Transportation Safety Board as the group chairman on major aircraft accidents. She retired from the NTSB and returned to Erie, Virginia in 1987.
Mary was the first woman helicopter instructor for the U.S. Army at Ft. Rucker, Alabama. She was an FAA Inspector and an accident and violations specialist. She worked on the National Transportation Safety Board as the group chairman on major aircraft accidents. She retired from the NTSB and returned to Erie, Virginia in 1987.
Ruby Sheldon
Ruby Wine Sheldon, WG #144, passed away on Nov. 12, 2012, in Phoenix at the age of 95. Ruby earned her helicopter rating in 1968 and held the first Helicopter Instrument Instructor rating issued by the FAA. She spent many years flying for the U.S. Geological Survey performing a variety of remote sensing missions from the Panama Canal to Alaska, including four months on the Arctic ice 400 miles north of Alaska. She logged more than 15,000 hours in airplanes, seaplanes and helicopters.
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Ruby Sheldon, continued:
She also was an organizer of the Air Race Classic in which she flew 22 times, winning three times and last participating in 2005 at the age of 92. She flew in the Powder Puff Derby three times and did volunteer flying for the American Red Cross. She was inducted into the Arizona Aviation Hall of Fame in 2009 and also was honored in an exhibit in the Smithsonian Air & Space Museum.
Karen Lee Johnson
Karen Lee Johnson, WG #1520, passed away on January 2, 2013 in California while doing what she loved: flying a helicopter. She was born in 1950 to Dolphus Phelps and Bernice Barnett Phelps in Murray, Kentucky, and moved to California when she was 18.
She had a wide range of interests that encompassed rotorcraft and fixed wing aviation as well as cooking and horses. She was the Secretary on the Whirly-Girls Board of Directors and took over leadership responsibility of the Silent Auction fund raising event, and her talent, positive energy, vision, and enthusiasm made her an invaluable and well-loved member of the community.
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She had a wide range of interests that encompassed rotorcraft and fixed wing aviation as well as cooking and horses. She was the Secretary on the Whirly-Girls Board of Directors and took over leadership responsibility of the Silent Auction fund raising event, and her talent, positive energy, vision, and enthusiasm made her an invaluable and well-loved member of the community.
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Karen Johnson, continued:
She was also deeply involved a number of other aviation organizations, including the Ventura County Ninety-Nines, and was the Chair upon her death. She was elected the 2012 Ventura County Ninety-Nines’ Woman Pilot of the Year.
In addition to her rotorcraft work for San Joaquin Helicopters, she enjoyed flying a Cessna Citation Jet for corporate work and was working on expanding her aviation career into the motion picture industry.
Karen was survived by her mother Bernice Phelps, her brother Timothy Phelps, her sister Shari Phelps, her nephew Joshua Phelps, and her niece Jessica Phelps.
In addition to her rotorcraft work for San Joaquin Helicopters, she enjoyed flying a Cessna Citation Jet for corporate work and was working on expanding her aviation career into the motion picture industry.
Karen was survived by her mother Bernice Phelps, her brother Timothy Phelps, her sister Shari Phelps, her nephew Joshua Phelps, and her niece Jessica Phelps.
Barbara Salinis
Barbara Salinis, WG #213, passed away on February 8, 2012. She was 86. She received her helicopter rating on March 15, 1976 flying a Bell 47.
Barbara retired from her job as a computer programmer at Hercules/Himont Corporation in 1982. She was a member of the Whirly-Girls, Ninety-Nines and the Civil Air Patrol. In addition to flying, Barbara loved cats, traveling, gardening and camping. She is missed by her daughter Meg (Marguerite) Salinis.
Barbara retired from her job as a computer programmer at Hercules/Himont Corporation in 1982. She was a member of the Whirly-Girls, Ninety-Nines and the Civil Air Patrol. In addition to flying, Barbara loved cats, traveling, gardening and camping. She is missed by her daughter Meg (Marguerite) Salinis.
Catherine Nussbaumer
Catherine Nussbaumer, WG #1234, worked as a pilot for Heliswiss. On May 24, 2012, she went on a mountain check flight with her Instructor Alex Bächlin (CEO of Heliswiss) and her pilot friend Stefan Bachmann. They hit a cable in the area of Kiental (Berner Oberland) in Switzerland, and all perished in the crash. Helicopter flying was Catherine’s passion and her life, and she will be sorely missed.
Evelyn Johnson
Evelyn Bryan Johnson, WG #20, passed away on May 17, 2012 at the age of 102. She was born six years after the Wright brothers first flew and taught over 5,000 students. She started flying airplanes after her husband enlisted in the Army in 1941 and became a flight instructor 1947. Over the course of her career, she logged over 57,000 hours in airplanes alone.
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Evelyn Johnson, continued:
She later sold Cessna airplanes, participated in races across the US, wrote about aviation, and was named flight instructor of the year in 1979 by the FAA. She received the Livingston Award from the Whirly-Girls in 2004 and was inducted into the National Aviation Hall of Fame in 2007.
Nicknamed “Mama Bird,” she was the oldest flight instructor in the world at the age of 92, and taught until 95. The loss of a leg combined with glaucoma ended her flying career, but she continued to manage a local airport even after her 100th birthday.
Nicknamed “Mama Bird,” she was the oldest flight instructor in the world at the age of 92, and taught until 95. The loss of a leg combined with glaucoma ended her flying career, but she continued to manage a local airport even after her 100th birthday.
Edna Sanroma
Edna M. Hikel Sanroma, WG #224, passed away on March 30, 2009 at the age of 67. She and her husband, Paul Sanroma, were the 51st couple to hold rotorcraft ratings together. Edna attended a number of hoverings and kept in contact with other Whirly-Girl members.
Edna majored in biology at the University of New Hampshire in 1964 and worked in animal research testing some trial substances that are now commonly used in human anesthesiology. She then worked as a Nuclear Medical Technologist and consulted throughout New England.
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Edna majored in biology at the University of New Hampshire in 1964 and worked in animal research testing some trial substances that are now commonly used in human anesthesiology. She then worked as a Nuclear Medical Technologist and consulted throughout New England.
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Edna Sanroma, continued:
As a licensed radiation physicist for the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission, she was a member of the Society of Nuclear Medicine and taught at Northeastern University while giving lectures at numerous other institutions. She was also a real estate broker, had a successful Teddy Bear mail order business, and was a member of the Bristol Yacht Club.
Her husband took care of her during her 27-year struggle with Alzheimer’s disease.
Her husband took care of her during her 27-year struggle with Alzheimer’s disease.
Irene Tuetloff
Irene Teutloff, WG #143, passed away in Berlin on December 23, 2011.
Elizabeth Haas Pfister
Betty Pfister, WG #52, passed away peacefully at her home in Aspen, Colorado on November 17, 2011. She was 90. She received the Congressional Gold Medal in 2010 for her role in the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs), the first women to fly military aircraft for the U.S. She owned and flew a P-39 flighter after the war and worked as a Pan Am stewardess. She flew gliders and balloons, and later learned to fly helicopters.
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Betty Pfister, continued:
In the early seventies, she became a member of the United States Helicopter Team. Her team represented the US in the World Helicopter Championships in both England and Russia. She bought a little Bell 47-G helicopter and had it painted to resemble a pink, yellow and orange butterfly. She named it Tinker Bell. She used to say she’d rather fly an hour in a helicopter than 100 hours in an airplane. Owning and flying that helicopter, if only for several years, was one of the highlights of her life.
The National Women’s Pilot Association, also known as the 99’s, counted Betty as a member since 1947. She organized the Aspen chapter in 1981. In 1992, she was awarded the Katherine Wright Memorial Award. She was honored with the Elder Statesman of Aviation Award by the National AeronauticAssociation in Washington, D.C. in 1994.
In 1995, she received the Federation Aeronautique Internationale (FAI) Rotorcraft Gold Medal for her outstanding contributions to national and international helicopter flight. She was inducted into the Colorado Aviation Hall of Fame in 1984. Betty held qualifications in more than twenty-five airplanes and helicopters.
In the late nineties, she offered local high school age children scholarships to flight school. She also sent several kids to Space Camp and once took a group to flight school in Florida herself. She organized Pitkin County Air Rescue in Colorado and was instrumental in developing a heliport at Aspen Valley Hospital.
The National Women’s Pilot Association, also known as the 99’s, counted Betty as a member since 1947. She organized the Aspen chapter in 1981. In 1992, she was awarded the Katherine Wright Memorial Award. She was honored with the Elder Statesman of Aviation Award by the National AeronauticAssociation in Washington, D.C. in 1994.
In 1995, she received the Federation Aeronautique Internationale (FAI) Rotorcraft Gold Medal for her outstanding contributions to national and international helicopter flight. She was inducted into the Colorado Aviation Hall of Fame in 1984. Betty held qualifications in more than twenty-five airplanes and helicopters.
In the late nineties, she offered local high school age children scholarships to flight school. She also sent several kids to Space Camp and once took a group to flight school in Florida herself. She organized Pitkin County Air Rescue in Colorado and was instrumental in developing a heliport at Aspen Valley Hospital.
Colette Hug
Colette Hug, WG #732, disappeared in the Alps in July 2009 during a mountain hike. She lived in France.
Sharleen Walker
Sharleen Walker, WG #632, died in 2009.
Melinda Stratulat
Melinda Stratulat, WG #1129, died June 22, 2010.
Evelyn Van Kesteren
WG #339, Evelyn Van Kesteren, passed away on July 9, 2010. She learned to fly from her husband, whom she first met at a USO dance in July, 1941 at Turner Field in Georgia. After he became an officer, they married, and she made him promise to teach her to fly.
Years later in 1968, she flew in the Powder Puff Derby from California to Georgia. She also flew with her husband all over the world, to destinations such as Australia, Argentina, Chile, Venezuela, and Canada. She became a Whirly-Girl after obtaining her helicopter rating and settled with her husband in St. Petersburg, Florida.
Years later in 1968, she flew in the Powder Puff Derby from California to Georgia. She also flew with her husband all over the world, to destinations such as Australia, Argentina, Chile, Venezuela, and Canada. She became a Whirly-Girl after obtaining her helicopter rating and settled with her husband in St. Petersburg, Florida.
Sharri Robin Huffert
WG #1563 Sharri Huffert was born on October 1, 1962 in Port Arthur, TX. Both pilot and mechanic, she owned Reliable Helicopter Services, LLC. She passed away on Sunday, December 26, 2010 after a battle with cancer. Memorial services were held on December 28, 2010 in Grove, TX.
Ann Younger
WG #91 Ann Younger was born July 9, 1932 in Berkeley, California. She started flying in 1959 and earned her helicopter rating June 1965. She was a commercial airplane pilot and worked for Lockheed and De Thurmond Flight Service in San Jose CA. Later she worked for Viking Air Service, Inc. as the Director of Marketing. Ann passed away in April 2009.
Lorna deBlicquy
Pioneering aviator Lorna deBlicquy, WG #131, died peacefully of Alzheimer’s Disease at age 77 on Saturday, March 21, 2009. Her daughter, Elaine deBlicquy, reported that “she had been doing quite well recently and was reading, as she usually did, voraciously. She had dinner…and sat down in a chair overlooking Lake Simcoe where she just ‘went to sleep.’”
Lorna deBlicquy was a trailblazer, one of Canada’s best-known women pilots and one of the most experienced. She overcame many barriers and was tireless in her efforts to advance the cause for women in Canadian aviation. She spent her life flying and fighting for women’s rights, particularly in the field of aviation. She learned to fly in Ottawa, Ont., and soloed a J-3 Cub at age 15. She became Canada’s first woman parachutist a year later and, at the same time, the youngest person to parachute jump.
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Lorna deBlicquy was a trailblazer, one of Canada’s best-known women pilots and one of the most experienced. She overcame many barriers and was tireless in her efforts to advance the cause for women in Canadian aviation. She spent her life flying and fighting for women’s rights, particularly in the field of aviation. She learned to fly in Ottawa, Ont., and soloed a J-3 Cub at age 15. She became Canada’s first woman parachutist a year later and, at the same time, the youngest person to parachute jump.
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Lorna deBlicquy, continued:
She found flying jobs hard to come by in the 1950’s in Canada as most employers would not hire “girl pilots,” but through perseverance she earned licenses for private glider, commercial helicopter, and single, multi, land, sea, and DC-3. She worked for Canadian Airline Transport Canada as the first female Civil Aviation Flight Test Inspector and was Canada’s first “high latitude pilot,” becoming the first woman to reach the North Pole.
Lorna wrote a guest editorial in 1974 in “Canadian Flight” protesting the discrimination against women pilots by Crown Corporation Air Transit. The article attracted national attention in the media and contributed to the improved climate which now ensures women a place in the cockpits of Canada’s major airlines. When Canada endorsed ICAO’s position that pregnancy is a disease, and thus automatically downgraded a pilot’s medical category, DeBlicquy served on a Canadian committee on pregnancy related to pilots’ medical standards. As a result, some leniency on the loss of a category I medical classification during pregnancy has been granted to working women pilots.
She had a total of 10,000 flying hours, more than half of them earned through flight instructing. She inspired and guided many female aviators, and she will be missed.
Lorna wrote a guest editorial in 1974 in “Canadian Flight” protesting the discrimination against women pilots by Crown Corporation Air Transit. The article attracted national attention in the media and contributed to the improved climate which now ensures women a place in the cockpits of Canada’s major airlines. When Canada endorsed ICAO’s position that pregnancy is a disease, and thus automatically downgraded a pilot’s medical category, DeBlicquy served on a Canadian committee on pregnancy related to pilots’ medical standards. As a result, some leniency on the loss of a category I medical classification during pregnancy has been granted to working women pilots.
She had a total of 10,000 flying hours, more than half of them earned through flight instructing. She inspired and guided many female aviators, and she will be missed.
Barbara Lynn Krauss Robinson
Barbara Krauss Robinson, WG #385, was born on October 7, 1955 in Los Angeles and grew up in Southern California. In recent years, her homes in Hermosa Beach and in Hawaii brought her tranquility. She graduated from Rolling Hills High School in 1973. Barbara went to work and became an integral part of the early success of Robinson Helicopter Company. She worked devotedly as an executive for many years, and became a licensed helicopter pilot. She and Frank Robinson married in 1983 and were later divorced in 2003.
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Barbara Krauss Robinson, continued:
After retiring, she devoted herself to her family and enjoyed planning adventures and world travels for her family and friends. Her son Mark and daughter Cindy were her greatest joy.
Because of her experience with breast cancer, Barbara founded the Barbara K. Robinson Breast Cancer Research Foundation and generously supported other cancer organizations. Barbara opened a women’s clothing store in Hermosa Beach and named it p.i.n.k., an acronym for “People inspiring new knowledge,” with the hope of mining positivity from her cancer battle. All profits from the store went to cancer research. The store later closed in 2008, but her efforts in preserving the 1920s Craftsman-style home at 238 Pier Ave. earned Robinson commendations from the city as well as the Hermosa Beach Historical Society.
On August 13, 2009, Barbara passed peacefully in her home surrounded by the love and care of her family.
Because of her experience with breast cancer, Barbara founded the Barbara K. Robinson Breast Cancer Research Foundation and generously supported other cancer organizations. Barbara opened a women’s clothing store in Hermosa Beach and named it p.i.n.k., an acronym for “People inspiring new knowledge,” with the hope of mining positivity from her cancer battle. All profits from the store went to cancer research. The store later closed in 2008, but her efforts in preserving the 1920s Craftsman-style home at 238 Pier Ave. earned Robinson commendations from the city as well as the Hermosa Beach Historical Society.
On August 13, 2009, Barbara passed peacefully in her home surrounded by the love and care of her family.
Carolyn Pilaar
WG #237 Carolyn Pilaar passed away on October 2, 2007 at the age of 61. She taught aviation courses at Greenville Tech and Furman University, and flew for Pan Am and DHL. She raced in the Powder Puff Derby, Angel Derby, and Air Race Classic events.
She was also active in a variety of organizations: the Whirly-Girls; the Ninety Nines; Zonta, a professional women’s organization; and Speedy Paws Agility with her toy poodle, Misty. Carolyn received the Achievement Award from the Ninety Nines, Inc. (1970), Outstanding Young Woman of the Year (1976), S.C. Flight Instructor of the Year (1976), Top Woman Pilot, World Precision Flying Championship (1990 and 1992), and in 1997 Carolyn was inducted into the South Carolina Aviation Hall of Fame.
She was also active in a variety of organizations: the Whirly-Girls; the Ninety Nines; Zonta, a professional women’s organization; and Speedy Paws Agility with her toy poodle, Misty. Carolyn received the Achievement Award from the Ninety Nines, Inc. (1970), Outstanding Young Woman of the Year (1976), S.C. Flight Instructor of the Year (1976), Top Woman Pilot, World Precision Flying Championship (1990 and 1992), and in 1997 Carolyn was inducted into the South Carolina Aviation Hall of Fame.
Maria Elena Sanchez Keran
WG#285 Maria Elena Sanchez Keran of Round Hill, Virginia, died August 25, 2008 at the age of 53. Maria was valedictorian of her high school Class of ’72, receiving the Bank of America Achievement Award in Mathematics and honors from the California Scholarship Federation. She was the recipient of the 1973 George Van Vliet Aero Scholarship from the College of San Mateo.
She soloed at age 16 on July 11, 1971 and quickly went on to earn several ratings including C, I, CFI, SMEL, ATP, CFII-R-H, Glider, type in BO105, and ground instructor ratings. She also obtained an airframe and powerplant mechanic’s license. Maria received the 12th annual Doris Mullen Whirly-Girl scholarship. In 1977 she was also the recipient of the Fall Aerospace/Rotor Wing International Magazine Helicopter Scholarship for a helicopter maintenance school.
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She soloed at age 16 on July 11, 1971 and quickly went on to earn several ratings including C, I, CFI, SMEL, ATP, CFII-R-H, Glider, type in BO105, and ground instructor ratings. She also obtained an airframe and powerplant mechanic’s license. Maria received the 12th annual Doris Mullen Whirly-Girl scholarship. In 1977 she was also the recipient of the Fall Aerospace/Rotor Wing International Magazine Helicopter Scholarship for a helicopter maintenance school.
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Maria Elena Sanchez Keran, continued:
She worked in various aviation positions throughout her career, beginning with an internship to the NASA Ames Research Center near Mountainview, California, in 1976. As a mechanic she worked for Western Airlines in San Francisco as part of a B-720, B-727, and B-737 service check crew. From February of 1979 to June of 1979 she worked as a technical writer for the Vought Corporation in Dallas, Texas, writing flight manuals for the A-7II Corsair; from June of 1979 to January of 1981 she worked as an instrument flight instructor and ATP ground instructor for the Jet Fleet Corporation in Dallas, Texas; and from February of 1981 to 1985 she worked as an instrument instructor and helicopter pilot for Tenneco, Inc., in Houston, Texas. Her other aviation teaching experiences included giving vocational-training aviation lectures for Sterling High School in Houston, Texas, and providing helicopter ATP/IFR ground schools for the Helicopter Operators of Texas.
She provided helicopter ATP/IFR ground/flight instruction and IFR refresher training for several corporations and agencies including the Augusta Aviation Corporation (Pennsylvania), MBB Helicopter Corporation (Pennsylvania), Executive Air Fleet (New Jersey), Allison Gas Turbine Flight Test (Indiana), Medi-Flight Operations (California), the Texas Department of Public Safety, and the Maryland State Police. She was also a member of the Helicopter Association International (HAI) faculty for the annual HAI-CFI Refresher Clinics from 1984 through 1989.
Following her marriage to Gary Keran in 1985, her teaching took on yet another scope – home schooling her four children. She continued to keep her pilot ratings current in addition to enjoying her many hobbies, some of which included golf, cooking, gardening, pencil sketching, calligraphy, and ham radio – all of which she passed on to her family. An avid supporter of music, she was a board member of the Loudoun Symphony Orchestra from 2006 to 2008.
She provided helicopter ATP/IFR ground/flight instruction and IFR refresher training for several corporations and agencies including the Augusta Aviation Corporation (Pennsylvania), MBB Helicopter Corporation (Pennsylvania), Executive Air Fleet (New Jersey), Allison Gas Turbine Flight Test (Indiana), Medi-Flight Operations (California), the Texas Department of Public Safety, and the Maryland State Police. She was also a member of the Helicopter Association International (HAI) faculty for the annual HAI-CFI Refresher Clinics from 1984 through 1989.
Following her marriage to Gary Keran in 1985, her teaching took on yet another scope – home schooling her four children. She continued to keep her pilot ratings current in addition to enjoying her many hobbies, some of which included golf, cooking, gardening, pencil sketching, calligraphy, and ham radio – all of which she passed on to her family. An avid supporter of music, she was a board member of the Loudoun Symphony Orchestra from 2006 to 2008.
Charlotte K. Kelley
WG#21 Charlotte Kelley joined the Whirly Girls in 1955. She was a very good friend of Jean Howard and passed away at the end of August 2008.
She first soloed a fixed-wing aircraft in 1945 and received her helicopter rating in 1947. She was the first Woman in the U.S. to be appointed Commissioner of Aeronautics, (Commonwealth of Massachusetts) in the ’50s and was a founding Member of the “Ninety Nines,” founded by Emilia Earhart.
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She first soloed a fixed-wing aircraft in 1945 and received her helicopter rating in 1947. She was the first Woman in the U.S. to be appointed Commissioner of Aeronautics, (Commonwealth of Massachusetts) in the ’50s and was a founding Member of the “Ninety Nines,” founded by Emilia Earhart.
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Charlotte Kelley, continued:
Charlotte was on the United States Helicopter Team in World Competition, beginning in Russia in 1978 and three additional Competitions. She went on to become a Judge of the FAI in World Competition, and most recently, she had been actively involved in the Scholarship Program for the Whirly Girls Organization.
She will be missed by those in aeronautics, as well as her family, Brian, her son, Melanie, her daughter, and her four grandchildren.
She will be missed by those in aeronautics, as well as her family, Brian, her son, Melanie, her daughter, and her four grandchildren.
Keiko Minakata
Originally from Japan, Keiko Minakata, WG#1339, came to the United States in 2001 to pursue her dream of working as a professional helicopter pilot. While in flight school she met and married her husband, an American. After training in California and Arizona, she worked in Texas as a flight instructor.
At the age of 41, WG#1339 Keiko Minakata joined Classic Helicopter in March 2005 as a flight instructor. During her two years at the company, she quickly rose through the ranks to become Classic’s Chief Pilot for its private pilot program and one of the company’s lead charter pilots.
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At the age of 41, WG#1339 Keiko Minakata joined Classic Helicopter in March 2005 as a flight instructor. During her two years at the company, she quickly rose through the ranks to become Classic’s Chief Pilot for its private pilot program and one of the company’s lead charter pilots.
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Keiko Minakata, continued:
In addition to living her dream as a helicopter pilot, Keiko was also very involved in volunteer efforts to encourage women to pursue aviation as a career. As a Whirly-Girl, she regularly met with ladies interested in learning to fly helicopters and also volunteered her time annually at the American Heroes Air Show, a helicopter-only event held at the Museum of Flight.
Keiko passed away Aug. 2, 2007 in a helicopter crash in the Cascade Mountains just south of Easton, Washington. She was flying a Robinson R44 on a charter flight, carrying three passengers for her employer, Classic Helicopter Corporation of Seattle, Washington. Keiko was a 2007 International Whirly-Girls Scholarship winner. She had intended to use to gain factory training on the Eurocopter AS350 helicopter to further her experience, skill and safety consciousness. Sadly, she did not have the opportunity to use it. The Advanced Mountain Flight Training Scholarship was established in her honor.
Keiko passed away Aug. 2, 2007 in a helicopter crash in the Cascade Mountains just south of Easton, Washington. She was flying a Robinson R44 on a charter flight, carrying three passengers for her employer, Classic Helicopter Corporation of Seattle, Washington. Keiko was a 2007 International Whirly-Girls Scholarship winner. She had intended to use to gain factory training on the Eurocopter AS350 helicopter to further her experience, skill and safety consciousness. Sadly, she did not have the opportunity to use it. The Advanced Mountain Flight Training Scholarship was established in her honor.
Dee Fulk
Dee Fulk, WG#227, died on Dec. 4, 2006 after a long and courageous battle with ovarian cancer.
Dee and her husband Bill Fulk M.D. had a helicopter business in Illinois before moving to Sanibel, Florida, in 1993. Dee had also worked as a trauma nurse in rescue helicopters and was an active member of the Whirly Girls during that time.
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Dee and her husband Bill Fulk M.D. had a helicopter business in Illinois before moving to Sanibel, Florida, in 1993. Dee had also worked as a trauma nurse in rescue helicopters and was an active member of the Whirly Girls during that time.
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Dee Fulk, continued:
In Southwest Florida, Dee made a huge contribution to the environment through her work with the Sanibel and Captiva turtle conservation program, which she led for many years. She wrote a weekly column on nature for the local newspaper.
Joanna Gollin, WG #914, wrote, “Dee will be missed so much by all her many friends and of course her family. Anyone who ever had the good fortune to meet her had their life enriched through the experience. She radiated goodness, caring, kindness and a love of life and wildlife which was an inspiration, and she also had a special quiet dignity that was all her own. In her obituary (Dec. 15) the newspaper the Islander wrote, ‘The world and Sanibel have suffered a great loss with Dee’s passing.'”
Joanna Gollin, WG #914, wrote, “Dee will be missed so much by all her many friends and of course her family. Anyone who ever had the good fortune to meet her had their life enriched through the experience. She radiated goodness, caring, kindness and a love of life and wildlife which was an inspiration, and she also had a special quiet dignity that was all her own. In her obituary (Dec. 15) the newspaper the Islander wrote, ‘The world and Sanibel have suffered a great loss with Dee’s passing.'”
Carol Forest
On Sunday morning, Aug. 13, 2006, WG#1391 Carol Forest passed away in a helicopter crash off Astoria, Oregon. She was the co-pilot in an R44 that was retracing the steps of Lewis and Clark by air as a part of the Flight of Discovery. The other two onboard, a pilot and camera man, also perished. Carol, 56, was a resident of San Diego and a principal of GeoSyntec Consultants. According to news reports, the area was very foggy at the time.
Whirly-Girl Hovering in Heaven with Numbers Below 400
WG#1 Hanna Reitsch
WG#2 Ann Carter
WG#5 Lyn Alexander
WG#7 Ethel Jones Sheffler
WG#8 Jacqueline Auriol
WG#9 Marilynn Riviere
WG#10 Edna Whyte
WG#11 Clara Livingston
WG#12 Mary Rosholt
WG#13 Jean Ross Phelan
WG#16 Dotti Young
WG#17 Arline Davis
WG#18 Elynor Falk
WG#19 Barbara Riggs
WG#20 Evelyn Johnson
WG#21 Charlotte Kelley
WG#22 Patricia Grant
WG#23 Edwina “Wini” Gronvold
WG#24 Alice DeWitt
WG#25 Janey Hart
WG#27 Dora Strother
WG#28 Teddy Kenyon
WG#29 Julia Short
WG#30 Helen Miller
WG#31 Danna Henderson
WG#32 Jean Wilson
WG#34 Ellen Gilmour
WG#36 Marion Orr
WG#38 Esther Gardiner
WG#40 Patricia Arnold
WG#41 June Davis
WG#43 Beverly Lang
WG#45 Dorothy Anthony
WG#46 Lauretta Foy
WG#48 Cela Orpen
WG#49 Frances “Fran” Bera
WG#50 Ilovene Potter
WG#52 Betty Pfister
WG#53 Jerrie Cobb
WG#55 Doris Lockness
WG#56 Mary Raub
WG#57 Bertha Coe
WG#59 Doris Renninger-Brell
WG#60 Marjy Crowl
WG#62 Nancy Martin Graham
WG#63 Aileen Roberts
WG#64 Gini Richardson
WG#66 Gay Maher
WG#67 Tony Page
WG#69 Mary Ann Hamilton
WG#73 Nancy Fitzroy
WG#74 Faith Richards
WG#76 Mary Reedy
WG#78 Ruth Deerman
WG#79 Sheila Scott
WG#80 Mona Coons
WG#82 Alice Weisendanger
WG#84 Doris Mullen
WG#85 Hazel Jones
WG#91 Ann Younger
WG#92 Esther Phipps
WG#93 Marjorie Gorman
WG#94 Phyllis Pierce
WG#96 Brenda Moore
WG#98 H. Gilliland
WG#100 Marcia Yockey
WG#102 Shirley Upton
WG#103 Doris Langher
WG#105 Sparkie Cannon
WG#108 Louise Smith
WG#109 Mitzi Gutheil Ellis
WG#112 Germaine DeFerranti
WG#115 Dorothy Kaye
WG#118 Jean Tinsley
WG#119 Hazel Smothers
WG#121 Rosemary Rose
WG#122 Carolyn Burum
WG#126 Louise Kaiser
WG#127 Barbara Maxey
WG#130 Mary De Simone
WG#131 Lorna deBlicquy
WG#132 Dorothy Flint
WG#133 Anne Frank
WG#137 Agnes Gallatin
WG#139 Helen Jost
WG#141 Gale Brownlee
WG#142 A. Page Shamburger
WG#143 Irene Teutloff
WG#144 Ruby Sheldon
WG#145 Joyce Failing
WG#148 Jean Bowers
WG#151 Irene Brunks
WG#158 Marilyn Arnold
WG#169 Holly Iler
WG#170 Helen White
WG#177 Fatemeh Pahlavi
WG#178 Josephine Richardson
WG#189 Mary Lou Brown
WG#195 Valera Johnson
WG#208 Jessica Hedges
WG#213 Barbara Salinis
WG#217 Mary Carr
WG#223 Frankie Sutton
WG#224 Edna Sanroma
WG#227 Dee Fulk
WG#228 Tracy Pilurs
WG#237 Carolyn Pilaar
WG#252 Katherine Strehle
WG#262 Karen Key
WG#263 Sheryl Seroonian
WG#274 Margot "Ruthanne" Page
WG#280 Alma Parker
WG#285 Maria-Elena Keran
WG#318 Carla Baker
WG#333 Christine Sturm
WG#339 Evelyn Van Kesteren
WG#346 Judith Stanton
WG#385 Barbara Robinson
Whirly-Girls Hovering in Heaven with Numbers Above 400
WG#401 Yumiko Take
WG#425 Marie Johansson
WG#445 Michaela Hickey
WG#459 Beverly “Bev” Vetter
WG#514 Christine Bauer
WG#518 Jeannie Dent
WG#536 Margaret Fisher
WG#549 Marlene Morris
WG#632 Sharleen Walker
WG#640 Dietra Sheppard
WG#673 Barbara Fasken
WG#732 Colette Hug
WG#765 Linda Gentry
WG#823 Lieve Verdoodt
WG#837 Janey Blair
WG#894 Barbara Klein
WG#1030 Tina Junker
WG#1086 Jennifer Odom
WG#1129 Melinda Stratulat
WG#1145 Charlotte Johnson
WG#1183 Maria Rodriguez
WG#1234 Catherine Nussbaumer, M.D.
WG#1339 Keiko Minakata
WG#1353 Michelle Price
WG#1364 Amber Lowery
WG#1391 Carol Forrest
WG#1520 Karen Johnson
WG#1563 Sharri Huffert
WG#1650 Krista Holstrom
WG#2005 Shannon Smith
WG#2034 Virginia Seigel
WG#2101 Lora Trout
WG#2216 Jessica Brandal
Associate (formerly Auxiliary) Members in Heaven
Jack Corey
Charlie Cox
Scott Crossfield
Joe Davenport
Wes Moore
Dayle Morningstar-Laird
Wylie Mullen
Arthur Pfister
James D. Phelan Sr.
Godfrey Rockefeller
John Slattery
Milton Stratford
Thomas Richard Stuelpnagel
Robert Vetter
William B. Wood