titleBarWhite1
item2
wrightflyer
ChuckZ2RV7
EAAlogotrans
Chapter13 Logo

Welcome to the Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 13 Website. We are a group of dedicated owners, builders and flyers of general aviation planes.

What would you like to know?

Our Current Month's Meeting Program? click here

Learn more about the chapter and our programs? click here

Arrange a Young Eagles flight? click here

There's lots more here, so look around. Hope to see you soon at one of our meetings.

Rex Phelps
Chapter 13 President

RIP Chapter member and newsletter contributor Del Schmitz -

December 18, 1922 - January 4, 2010

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.

madewithfreeway

For problems or questions please contact the webmaster

Last updated 1/8/2010

Hosted by Seneca Communications