flipster
15th Sep 2011, 12:04
FLT LT PFCA ‘PETE’ THORN RAF (RTD)
It is with enormous regret I have to announce the passing away of Flt Lt Peter Thorn. ‘Pete’ was a most highly respected military pilot and instructor who gave his life to helping others to enjoy the ‘delirious burning blue’ as much as he did.
Pete was a fighter pilot and instructor who flew many fighter types in service with the RAF and FAA, including a time on the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and displaying Spitfires on the airshow circuit. He spent many years teaching students to fly on Jet Provosts, Bulldogs and Chipmunks. After his retirement from the RAF, Pete had a long and illustrious career teaching at local flying clubs, flying with the Tiger Moth ‘Diamond Nine’ Formation Team and also becoming Treasurer of the Historic Aircraft Association. Certainly, the world of aviation is much poorer for his passing but his legacy will live on in the multitude of well-trained pilots lucky enough to have had him for a mentor.
He 'slipped the surly bonds of earth' for the last time, peacefully, on 14 September 2011, after a short illness. He is survived by his wife, June, his daughter, Claire, his son, Justin and all their families who are hugely grateful for any messages of support and condolence. As well as posting on PPRuNe, anecdotes and memories can be sent to [email protected].
There will be a private family funeral but also there will be an ‘open’ memorial service in Woodstock sometime in the next month or so. Details are yet to be decided but I will post here when known.
Flip
Blue skies and happy landings Pete. Thank you for persevering with this particular 'low-average' pilot and for teaching me so much!
It is with enormous regret I have to announce the passing away of Flt Lt Peter Thorn. ‘Pete’ was a most highly respected military pilot and instructor who gave his life to helping others to enjoy the ‘delirious burning blue’ as much as he did.
Pete was a fighter pilot and instructor who flew many fighter types in service with the RAF and FAA, including a time on the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and displaying Spitfires on the airshow circuit. He spent many years teaching students to fly on Jet Provosts, Bulldogs and Chipmunks. After his retirement from the RAF, Pete had a long and illustrious career teaching at local flying clubs, flying with the Tiger Moth ‘Diamond Nine’ Formation Team and also becoming Treasurer of the Historic Aircraft Association. Certainly, the world of aviation is much poorer for his passing but his legacy will live on in the multitude of well-trained pilots lucky enough to have had him for a mentor.
He 'slipped the surly bonds of earth' for the last time, peacefully, on 14 September 2011, after a short illness. He is survived by his wife, June, his daughter, Claire, his son, Justin and all their families who are hugely grateful for any messages of support and condolence. As well as posting on PPRuNe, anecdotes and memories can be sent to [email protected].
There will be a private family funeral but also there will be an ‘open’ memorial service in Woodstock sometime in the next month or so. Details are yet to be decided but I will post here when known.
Flip
Blue skies and happy landings Pete. Thank you for persevering with this particular 'low-average' pilot and for teaching me so much!