March 19, 2026

2nd Lt. Chester Wojnicki
GLR-IL-049
Illinois Wing

Chester Wojnicki
July 25, 1950 - March 4, 2026

Chester Wojnicki, born July 25, 1950, in Szczurowa, Poland, passed away surrounded by the love of his family. He was the beloved husband of Halina Wojnicki; devoted father of Beata Dempsey and Renata Sobczak; proud grandfather of Danny, Elyse, and Addison Dempsey, and Oakley and Ellie Sobczak; and great-grandfather of Daphne Dempsey. He was also a cherished brother to Anthony Wojnicki and Stanley Wojnicki.

From a young age, Chester dreamed of building a life in the United States and pursuing his passion for aviation. Through determination and hard work, he came to America and built a life he was truly proud of for himself and his family.

Aviation remained one of the greatest passions of his life. He was a longtime member of the aviation community at Chicago Executive Airport and enjoyed participating in Civil Air Patrol meetings, where he shared his knowledge and enthusiasm for flying with others.

Chester also owned and operated his own electrical and HVAC business, where he applied his strong work ethic, practical skills, and ability to fix or build almost anything.

A man of deep Catholic faith, he lived his life guided by devotion to God and love for his family.

He will be remembered for his determination, humor, and the lasting impact he had on the lives of those who knew him. His legacy lives on through the love he shared and the family he cherished.

February 26, 2026

Lt. Col. Edmund J. Donovan
New York Wing
NY-048

Edmund J. Donovan, 79, passed away on February 11, 2026 surrounded by his family. He lived in and loved the community of Throggs Neck. He taught Physics, Earth Science and Driver's Ed for 40 years at Salesian High School. He served the Throggs Neck Community for greater than 40 years with the Auxiliary Police at the 45th precinct attaining the prestigious rank of Captain. He was lovingly known as "The Colonel" a rank he achieved with the National Guard Auxiliary. He was involved in many more organizations including the Knights of Columbus and the Coast Guard Auxiliary. He loved Irish music, Doo Wop, tea and toast, and all things military. Ed was preceded in death by his parents John and Bridie, his adopted parents Mary and James Holcroft, his siblings Peggy, Sissy, and Donnie and by his wife Florence. He is survived by his four children: Edmund (Meghan), Matthew (Stephanie), Katie (Rob), and Sean (Casey). He also leaves behind six loving grandchildren: Connor, Emma (Dizzy), Troy, Lily, Reilly, and Paige. It is with a heavy heart we say goodbye to a Bronx legend. The Colonel is once again dancing with Flo to the "12th of Never" in the great ballroom in the sky.

As you were.

February 26, 2026

Lt. Col. Larry Brown
Maine Wing
ME-035

Larry Brown of Columbia, TN, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, February 14, 2026. He now gets to soar the skies with the angels. Larry was born on August 3, 1954, in Woodbury, NJ, the son of Andrew E. Brown Sr. and Loretta May (Sandelier) Skermont. His stepfather, Joseph Skermont Sr., had a large influence on his life.

Larry is survived by his devoted wife, Kay Esther (Zobel) Brown; his loving children, Rebecca Kay Esther Bulkley and spouse, Chad, of Lewisburg, TN, and Joseph Victor Brown of Columbia, TN; his cherished grandchildren, Connor Bulkley, Alanna Bulkley, and Hunter Bulkley; his treasured brothers, Andrew E. Brown Jr. of Malaga, NJ, Edward Brown and partner, Rene Mastoddi, of Norwood, PA, and Mike Shipman and partner, Laurie Raines, of Corinth, MS; dear sister, Dorita Brown of Williamstown, NJ; and several beloved aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his loving parents; stepmother, Emmi Brown; caring stepfather; his treasured brother, Peter Brown; and beloved stepgrandchild, Aiden Bulkley.

Larry graduated from Rutgers University (ROTC) in January 1977. He was a member of the Rutgers Queens Guard, national champion drill team and performed at the 1973 Edinburgh Military Tattoo attended by the Queen of England. He served as an USAF intelligence officer for 4 years. Then he graduated pilot training in 1982 & flew the KC-135 (air refueling tanker) 1982-1999. During this time, he upgraded to instructor/evaluator pilot and served as a Command Post Operations specialist, KC-135 simulator instructor, PACAF Exercise planner and AF Liaison to the Bangor Air National Guard. He flew in 3 combat tours: 1st Persian Gulf War, Bosnia and Kosovo. In 1988, he earned his Master of Aviation Management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. After retiring from the USAF, he was a pilot for American Airlines. Larry was also a Civil Air Patrol pilot and a squadron commander for Caribou Composite Squadron and Bangor Composite Squadron in Maine. He greatly enjoyed giving orientation flights to the cadets.

He deeply loved spending time/playing games with his grandchildren. He was an avid pilot in online aviation games alongside his Check Six Squad of friends. Larry was a fan of Reba McEntire, Garth Brooks, Elvis Presley; and the TV shows: Big Bang Theory and Ghosts. He was a gifted storyteller. His family and friends will miss his tales of life.

February 26, 2026

Lt. Col. Roland J. Zavada
New York Wing
NY-001

Roland "Rollie" Zavada, age 98, of Pittsford, New York, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026.

Born to Susan and Oldrich Zavada, Rollie lived a remarkable life defined by service, education, innovation, and an enduring passion for aviation and motion picture technology. He earned a degree in Chemistry from Purdue University, a degree in Photographic Science from the Rochester Institute of Technology, and later an MBA from the University of Rochester.

A proud veteran of the United States Army Air Forces, Rollie served his country honorably during World War II and the Korean War. His dedication to aviation continued long after his military service through his active involvement in the Civil Air Patrol.

Rollie had a distinguished career with Eastman Kodak Company, earning numerous awards in recognition of his professional achievements and technical contributions. His expertise and passion for motion picture technology led to his involvement with the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers, where he was a respected and valued member of the professional community. In recognition of his many contributions to the field of imagery, the graphic arts industry honored him by establishing an award in his name. The "Rollie" Award is presented to an individual demonstrating remarkable contributions to the industry. An enduring tribute to his impact and legacy.

Even after his retirement, Rollie continued to consult with Kodak, sharing his deep technical knowledge and expertise. His final professional assignment was to authenticate the photographic film related to the assassination of President John F. Kennedy—an extraordinary responsibility that reflected the trust and respect he commanded within the field.

Flying was more than a hobby for Rollie—it was a lifelong love. Whether serving his country, volunteering with the Civil Air Patrol, or advancing motion picture technology, aviation and science remained at the heart of who he was. In addition to achieving the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, he served as Chief Check Pilot for the New York Wing of the Civil Air Patrol, mentoring and evaluating fellow pilots with the same dedication and excellence that defined his life. His career reflected both technical brilliance and a deep curiosity about the world.

Beyond his professional and aviation pursuits, Rollie enjoyed woodworking and sports car rallying. He found satisfaction in crafting with his hands and excitement on the open road—hobbies that reflected both his precision and his adventurous spirit.

Rollie is survived by his beloved wife of 42 years, Carol Zavada; his son Christopher Webber and his wife Andrea; his son Andrew Webber and his husband Gregg; his grandchildren Leire, Julen, Iosu, and Iker; and his great-grandchildren Ander and Zuri; his sister Doreen Guba; and numerous cousins. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, and his legacy of service, integrity, intellect, and passion will live on through all who knew and loved him.

His life was one of purpose, dedication, and quiet strength. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

February 26, 2026

Capt. Ernest J. Drew
South Carolina Wing
SC-002

Ernest James "Jim" Drew, born September 29, 1948, in Marion, South Carolina, passed away early Saturday morning, December 13, 2025, at McLeod Regional Medical Center in Florence, South Carolina, following an illness.

Jim was raised in Marion, where he attended school and built lifelong connections in the area. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest Drew and Elsie Mae Alford Drew and by his beloved wife, Linda Collins Drew, whom he married in 1967. They shared 54 wonderful years of marriage until her passing in 2022.

Jim retired after more than 30 years of dedicated service with BellSouth/AT&T. Service was a defining part of Jim's life. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy, stationed in San Pedro, California, and San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Jim also devoted his time to mentoring and leadership, serving as a Boy Scout troop leader, where he shared his love for the outdoors. An accomplished pilot, he volunteered with the Civil Air Patrol, combining his passion for flying with service to others.

Above all, Jim's greatest devotion was to his faith and his church, Mullins First Baptist Church. He served faithfully as a deacon and on numerous committees. In later years, he became the church's audio-visual specialist, implementing systems that allowed church services to be broadcast and shared with a wider community.

Jim is survived by his son, James Burke Drew (Laura) of Holly Springs, North Carolina, and his grandson, Rowan Drew; his sister, Gwen Haigh of Elgin; brothers, John Drew of Mullins and Lonnie Drew (Vickie) of Moncure, NC; his brothers-in-law, Mike Collins (Faye) of Mullins and Steve Collins (Karen) of Florence; a special friend, Stewart Hickman of Greer, SC; along with several nieces and nephews.

February 26, 2026

Lt. Col. Terry E. Spitzer
Iowa Wing
IA-000

Terry Eugene Spitzer, 91, passed away on January 21, 2026, at his home in Kalona, Iowa, after a year-long battle with Amyloidosis.

Terry was born on September 8, 1934, in Hagerstown, Maryland, the son of Lee F. and Elsie R. (Hager) Spitzer. His family moved to Corpus Christi, Texas, where he graduated from Flower Bluff High School. Terry attended McPherson College in Kansas for two years. He then served in the United States Army Airborne from 1954 until 1955. Terry worked in the printing business in the Chicago area until moving to Kalona, Iowa, in 1959.

On June 4, 1960, Terry married Delores J. Yoder at the English River Church of the Brethren near South English where they were both members and Deacons. Terry and Delores were blessed with four sons: Anthony, Bruce, Craig, and David. You may notice that their children's names begin with the alphabet A, B, C, and D. Terry and Delores always said that E was for End. Terry worked at several printers in Iowa City before purchasing Kalona Graphics in 1976 which he ran for 21 years, the last 14 of which were in partnership with his son, Anthony. Terry retired from the printing business in 1997. He was a founding member of the Kalona First Responders and served as an EMT/Paramedic for Washington County Ambulance for many years. He was a charter member of the Kalona Lions Club. Terry was the pool manager and lifeguard at the Kalona swimming pool for several years and worked in security at the Riverside Casino for nearly 10 years from the time it first opened. Terry's quest for new knowledge and a new challenge continued into his later years when he studied and became a Pharmacy Technician at nearly 80 years old. Because he loved being around people, he continued to work full time until he became ill when he was 90.

His passion for aviation started early and culminated when he built the Kalona Air Park west of Kalona in 1968 and operated Kalona Flying Service teaching dozens of people the joy of flying – as his slogan said "Learn to Fly – It's Fun!" - until 2024. He was a private pilot, commercial pilot, and flight instructor. Being awarded the Wright Brothers award for 50+ years of dedicated service in aviation safety in 2015 was a milestone in his aviation career. Terry enjoyed restoring airplanes and especially enjoyed his Piper Cub. He was also active in the Civil Air Patrol where he achieved the rank of Lt. Colonel. He was active with the Kalona area Boy Scouts, Troop 234, including taking young men to Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, and sponsoring an Explorer troop with a focus on aviation. Terry's love of history and antiques carried into cars as well and his most prized auto was his 1910 Ford Model T. He loved driving his red Chrysler convertible with the top down every chance he got.

Survivors include four sons: Anthony (Diane Van Hoozer) Spitzer of Kalona; Bruce Spitzer of Aurora, Illinois; Craig (Bill Aasberg) Spitzer of Kalona and David Spitzer of Milan, Illinois; four grandchildren: Cody Spitzer, Jesse (Becky) Spitzer, Travis (Teresa) Hartley, and Sheena Hartley; five great grandchildren: Mason, Braden, Sage, Aviana and Stella; sisters Joan Gould of

Sarasota, Florida; and Jeri Roberts of Corpus Christi, Texas; and sister-in-law Margaret Spitzer of Corpus Christi, Texas. Terry was preceded in death by his parents; wife Delores in 1997; two brothers: Earl (Janice) Spitzer and Howard Spitzer; and mother-in-law Emma Yoder.

February 26, 2026

Maj. Terry H. Bass
New Mexico Wing
NM-030

Terry Hugh Bass, 81, of Albuquerque, NM, passed away on February 4, 2026. He was born on March 27, 1944, in Austin, TX.

A dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Terry is survived by his beloved spouse, Martha Bass; daughters Christina Jacoby (Jeremy) and Katie Thomas (Will); son David Bass (Jessica); grandchildren Marena, Daylyn (Brenda), Jourdynn, Hunter, Charlotte, Dean, and Nora; and great-granddaughters Luna-Mae and Brooklyn, who cherished his presence and guidance.

He graduated from McCallum High School in Austin in 1962 and went on to earn his bachelor's degree from the University of Houston in 1967. That same year, he answered the call to serve his country, beginning active duty with the United States Marine Corps from 1967 to 1970 and continuing his service through 1974.

In 1975, Terry became a flight instructor, sharing his love of aviation and shaping the next generation of pilots. That same passion led him to the Federal Aviation Administration, where he began his career as an air traffic controller and moved to Albuquerque.

From 1983 to 1986, Terry transferred to Honolulu, Hawaii, serving as an air traffic controller while also flying F-90 aircraft around the Hawaiian Islands. During that time, he joined the Hawaii Army National Guard as a warrant officer and military pilot, flying UH-1 Huey helicopters.

In 1986, he returned to Albuquerque to work at the Albuquerque Air Route Traffic Control Center and joined the New Mexico Army National Guard, continuing to fly Hueys.

His career then took him to FAA Headquarters in 1989, where he lived in Walkersville, Maryland, and joined the Maryland Army National Guard, flying AH-1 Cobra helicopters.

In 1993, Terry transferred to the Indianapolis Air Route Traffic Control Center as an Automation Manager and joined the Indiana Army National Guard, flying the fixed-wing C-23 Sherpa. In 1999, he moved back to Albuquerque but continued working remotely for FAA Headquarters.

In 2004, Terry retired from the Federal Aviation Administration and from the United States Army National Guard as a Chief Warrant Officer (CW4), concluding a distinguished military and federal career marked by leadership, technical excellence, and unwavering dedication .

Retirement did not slow him down. That same year, he traveled to Kabul, Afghanistan, to help establish their air traffic control system - once again answering the call to serve, even in his 60s.

He rejoined the New Mexico Civil Air Patrol in 2003, serving with Albuquerque Squadron II and the New Mexico Wing as both a Check Pilot and Cadet Orientation Pilot. Major Bass was deeply committed to mentoring young cadets and fellow aviators, always eager to share his knowledge and steady leadership. Last year, he was honored with the New Mexico Wing's Decade of Dedication Award in recognition of his years of faithful service.

In addition to his service flying with the New Mexico Civil Air Patrol, he also flew medevacs, Learjets, transporting critically ill patients across the country. He was always on call, ready to go at a moment's notice whenever someone needed him.

But as remarkable as his career was, Terry's proudest achievement was his family.

On August 4, 1979, he married the love of his life, Martha Jane Hawley. For 46 years, they built a life grounded in loyalty, laughter, resilience, and deep devotion. Their marriage was the foundation of the family he treasured so dearly.

Terry filled his days working with his hands and being outdoors. He could take apart an engine piece by piece and put it back together with ease. He loved hunting, fishing, spending time on boats and motorcycles, and firing up the grill to barbecue for the people he loved. Some of his happiest moments were simple ones - sharing a cold beer on the porch of the cabin in the Jemez Mountains he built with his hands. He loved watching sunsets around the world, and especially the nightly glow of the Sandias.

If you ever thanked him for anything, he would just grin and say,

"Twern't no problem."

But it was never "no problem."

It was love. It was service. It was who he was.

Terry was preceded in death by his father, Roy Bass; mother, Nettie Meusel; stepfather, Paul Meusel; brother, Kenneth Bass; granddaughter, Cassidy Thomas; and great-granddaughter, Arcadia Jaramillo.

He's finally cleared for takeoff - flying free in wide, endless skies forever.

February 26, 2026

Lt. Col. James L. Lowther
National Capital Wing
DC-001

Pastor James Lewis Lowther
1950 — 2026
Upper Marlboro, MD

James Lewis Lowther, age 75, of Upper Marlboro, MD, went home to his Lord and Savior on Friday, January 30, 2026. Beloved husband of Jean Marie Lowther (Skow). Loving father of Thomas (Tammy) Lowther, Philip (Pam) Lowther, Mark (Jessica) Lowther, Jason (Marie) Lowther, and Jeremiah (Meghan) Lowther. Devoted grandfather of Summer, Micah, Abigail, Noah, Karis, Emma, Kayla, Josiah, Hannah, Gideon, Silas, Eliana, Chloe, Claire, and Abel. Dear brother of Debbie (Jim) Neuberger, and Tami (Doug) Flather. Preceded in death by his parents Herbert and Eula Lowther and brother Kenneth Blankenship. Jim was a beloved pastor of Camp Springs Community Church and will be dearly missed by many.

February 26, 2026

Lt. Col. Kevin W. Redman
Maryland Wing
MD-038

Kevin Wayne Redman, age 60, of Laurel, Maryland, passed away on January 5, 2026.

Kevin was born on October 9, 1965, in Washington, D.C., the son of Elza K. Redman Jr. and Charlotte May (Hiett) Redman. Kevin resided most of his life in Laurel, MD. He was preceded in death by his mother, Charlotte, who taught him the importance of service, mentorship, family, and showing up for the people who mattered most.

Kevin was known for his sharp mind, dry humor, and a perfectly timed sense of sarcasm. His wit leaned a little dark and a little clever, and he delivered it with such precision that you often didn't realize you'd been teased until a moment later. If Kevin joked with you, it meant he cared, and if he didn't, you probably just hadn't earned it yet.

One of the greatest passions of Kevin's life was his service with the Civil Air Patrol for 46 years. As a cadet, Kevin earned the General Carl A. Spaatz Award (#722), Civil Air Patrol's highest cadet honor. As a senior member, reaching the rank of Lt Col, Kevin served in various positions at Maryland Wing Headquarters and was most recently the commander of the Howard Cadet Squadron. He was deeply committed to search and rescue missions, emergency preparedness, and community outreach. He especially loved the opportunity to teach and mentor others, sharing his knowledge and encouraging curiosity, preparedness, and service. Civil Air Patrol was more than volunteer work to Kevin; it was a place where his love of learning, discipline, and helping others came together.

After graduating from Johns Hopkins University with a degree in physics, Kevin spent his 36-year career at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center where he worked on missions that quite literally changed how we see the universe. He pushed the boundaries of what we know about space, most notably contributing to the servicing missions of the Hubble Space Telescope. Kevin's work mattered to his sense of curiosity and exploration. What he built is something that outlasts him, orbiting quietly above the Earth and expanding how humanity sees the universe. In addition to his technical achievements, throughout his career, Kevin was a trusted leader and mentor. He was patient, methodical, and steady under pressure.

Kevin is survived by his father, Elza Redman, and his siblings, Keith Redman; Terri Taylor and her husband John Taylor; and Mark Redman and his wife Samantha Redman. He was a proud uncle to ten nieces and nephews: Jenna Nagoda, Matthew Taylor, Cody Taylor, Joni Nichols, Lucas Redman, Nicholas Redman, Cameron Redman, Gemma Hunt, Christopher Hunt, and Holly Redman. He cared deeply for his family and showed his love in his own way through loyalty, presence, and a running commentary that somehow always made things lighter.

It's still down for me on Chrome...Edge loaded however.

Most people use Chrome. 

CT seems to have been dead for years now, this is just decay situation. 

I'm not sure if other forums are doing worse or better, but I'm sure it'll just be a concept to my kids, and I'll lump that in with other stories of the early internet.