 |
||
 |
|
|
RIP Chapter member and newsletter contributor Del Schmitz -
SCHMITZ DELBERT JOSEPH Age 87, of Traverse City and formerly of Troy, passed away Monday, January 4, 2010 at Grand Traverse Pavilions in Traverse City. Delbert was born on December 18, 1922 in Oregon.
Del answered the call of duty and served his country as a cargo pilot with United States Army Air Corp during WWII. Del made his way through school on the G.I. Bill and became a graduate of the University of Detroit. He went on to make his living as a mechanical engineer working in the Detroit area and eventually retiring at the age of 75. Del maintained his love for flying even after the service, becoming a private pilot currently flying a Piper Cherokee 140.
In Later years, Del enjoyed traveling to many places all over the world, some with travel groups like the NOMADS. He expressed one of his many talents in his home workshop, woodworking or out in the garage putting together his own experimental aircraft. Del was a member of the E.A.A., Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 13 and was a member of St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Troy.
Del is survived by his daughter, Linda (Merrill) Gardiner of Traverse City, MI, two grandsons, Jessie Smith of Chicago and Iain Smith of Traverse City, several flying buddies as well as many other loving family members and friends. Del was preceded in death by his wife, Nancy and a brother Martin.
A fly-in for friends and family celebrating Del's life will be held at a later date in the spring. Memorial contributions may be directed to the E.A.A., www.eaa.org.
 | |
 | |
For problems or questions please contact the webmaster
Last updated 1/8/2010
Hosted by Seneca Communications