Airline Pilot Central Forums - Wichita's GA hero: Aaron Martin

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Wichita's GA hero: Aaron Martin

Aaron Martin was an aviation fixture in Wichita, KS who passed away last week. His enthusiasm for all things aviation and love for people were both contagious and enlivening. He taught flying, introduced people to aviation, flew skydivers, fixed airplanes, told jokes, you name it Aaron was about sharing and caring for others. We lament the passing of such an aviation hero. He will be missed, and here is his Obituary.

-Cubdriver

Aaron Dale Martin, 75, beloved father, grandfather and brother, retired Boeing engineer, pilot and aviation enthusiast, took off at sunset on Sunday, December 5, 2010 for final flight. Conditions for the flight were winds favorable, unlimited visibility, and clear skies. Interment took place at North Edna Cemetery, Edna, KS. Aaron was an avid pilot, flight instructor, cowboy and guitar player. A memorial has been established with the Kansas Aviation Museum, 3350 S. George Washington Blvd, Wichita, KS, 67210. Tributes may be sent to the family via www.dlwichita.com.

Read more here

In 1977 Aaron was my instructor for complex and multi engine training in his Twin Commanche. I had never flown anything bigger or more complex than a 172 at the time but he was such a great instructor he made it pretty easy. We did all the ground school work sitting around his kitchen table. He was such a gentleman and great instructor, he will be missed.

Around the local circuit there have been a variety of remembrances of Aaron and some of the people have made their memories part of public display in places such as here.

My own memory of working with Aaron covered many occasions working at the Wichita GliderPort 2008-2010 as a tow pilot, where Aaron checked me out for glider towing originally. In addition, Aaron was fond of dropping by Air Capital Drop Zone where he had been a pilot prior to my arrival, and where he came by many days during my own times and chatted with me. He was always the greatest gentleman and many an afternoon we shared beers, jokes, and anecdotes about the days flying. Aaron confided to me personally in his daily thoughts and I will ever cherish the experience. He was a great man in his simple, loving ways, and I always looked forward to his arrival and thoughts. Earth is lucky have such men walking upon it.