An Eagle returns home...
I know this is an aircraft related post, in the helicopter room, but some of you fellows might be familiar with Mr. Duane Cole,
"The Father of Aerobatics"...
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February 3, 2004 - Duane Cole, longtime EAA member, air show performer and aerobatic instructor, passed away of natural causes Tuesday morning in Burleson, Texas. He was 89.
Duane, who was membership cardholder EAA No. 8, earned his private ticket in 1938 and his instructor rating in 1940. That year he flew his first air show and for the next 15 years taught aerobatics to Civilian Pilot Training Program students, Royal Air Force Cadets, and U.S. Army Air Force Cadets. Did he do a good job..... ask Patty Wagstaff!
He was inducted to the International Aerobatic Club's Hall of Fame in 1987, and International Council of Air Shows (ICAS) Hall of Fame in 1995.
"Duane Cole's legacy and impact on aviation, aerobatic training, and safety will be remembered," said EAA President Tom Poberezny. "His decades of contributions came not only in the air, but his nine books will leave a lasting legacy for many years to come."
Duane's Taylorcraft is enshrined at the EAA AirVenture Museum.
Duane is survived by his wife, Judy, who performed as his wing rider. Awards over the years include the 1962 and 1964 National Aerobatics Championship. He also was very involved in the Reno National Air Races where he served as director. Duane has lectured throughout the country and had over 30,000 hours of flight time.
Visitation will be Saturday, February 7, from 7-9 p.m. at the Mountain Valley Funeral Home, 3407 SW Wilshire Blvd., Burleson, TX 76097. Funeral services are at 2 p.m. Sunday, February 8.
"Silence broke one misty morn,
the eagles wings all marred and torn,
his body breaks the grassy sod,
and returns the eagles soul to God."
"I bet him and Rolly are burning up the airspace around Glory right now!"
Frank