View Full Version : Sad news. Death of Graham Caven
MichaelCollins
23rd Feb 2024, 08:03
Regret to say Graham Caven, previously Chief Pilot at Gulf Helicopters, Doha and other locations has died.
He helped a lot of people get started in/advance in their career - I know I was very grateful in 1996 when he was Deputy Chief Pilot and Denis Laird was CP there and took a chance and hired me over the phone. That's how things were done back then, Chief/Deputy Chief Pilot hired pilots.
Graham was a larger-than-life character, always had something going on, always in a good mood, positive outlook, no problem couldn't be solved.
An excellent pilot, complete natural at the controls and took care of his team.
Always a pleasure to be with both at work and afterwards as his house was always open to entertain and where he indulged himself as chef.
Great memories of happier, more carefree times.
Sincere sympathy to his wife Jill, daughter Victoria, son Alex.
Phil Kemp
23rd Feb 2024, 14:05
Such sad news. A great pilot, and always humorous and entertaining at work or play. There is always a fond smile on the face of everyone that knew him, as yet another great story is recounted. RIP Caveman.
Longdog
23rd Feb 2024, 20:11
The Caveman, RIP brother.
Graham hired me in 98 after getting the brown envelope from ADA, and I was forever thankful.
He was one of those people who are truly larger than life, leaving a rather large wake behind him, in a good way.
A natural pilot, a man who could dream big, and follow through to see the dreams come to fruition.
It was a sad day in Doha when he left for Nigeria, but times had changed and he needed new horizons.
I'll be raising a glass to Graham this evening, to the many fond memories!
finalchecksplease
23rd Feb 2024, 20:21
RIP Caveman
Chock Puller
24th Feb 2024, 02:17
In life we are blessed to encounter people such as Graham and are the better for it.
He was a gentleman, an excellent pilot, a good sport, and just a darn good Man.
This kind of news is becoming far too frequent as time and age takes its toll.
Fond memories of times spent in his company and having enjoyed his sense of humor and good nature.
Condolences to his family and friends and if it is any solace there are a lot of people mourning his passing.
Nigerian Expat Outlaw
24th Feb 2024, 08:25
Always a pleasure doing sim with Caveman, whether in Shawbury or Dubai the fag breaks after every approach were welcome. An OPC at Port Harcourt with windows cracked open to dissipate the smoke descended even further into farce when all approach aids went off due power cut and a diesel shortage leaving the backup genset asleep.
It was an absolute pleasure to know you mate.
NEO
Droopy
24th Feb 2024, 09:43
Farewell Graham, fellow Geordie and all round top bloke, we flew together in Eket mid 1980s.
Some very good memories of Gannet, 814 and Hermes and a larger than life character - literally - RIP Caveman.
Lucifer Morningstar
25th Feb 2024, 22:04
I had the genuine pleasure of working alongside Graham in the last few years, and I can honestly say I am gutted. Graham was a true gentleman. He spoke ill of no-one and just quietly went about the business of being an exceptionally gifted helicopter pilot//boss and mentor. I only knew him for 5 years but he made a real impression and I know that the world has just lost a real character and an amazing friend.
Godspeed and blue skies Graham - a life well lived. I shall miss you.
Yours always,
HeliFly189
26th Mar 2024, 10:03
RIP Graham
ACEmen
27th Mar 2024, 00:07
Flew with Graham for an OPC in Port Harcourt. An absolutely amazing pilot and nice guy with such a huge presence. RIP Caveman.
peterperfect
28th Mar 2024, 10:47
I only met Graham a couple of times and sad to hear of his passing. Here is a photo of his flying course at Culdrose back in the early 70s.
https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/pprune.org-vbulletin/856x634/johns_71_7ebcdff5696043f23727e5a980ae321ab33f849d.jpg
Manchester
31st Mar 2024, 18:22
Interesting pic. I think I see the late lamented John Sephton (who went down with Ardent in the Falklands), the Ginger Tom, and Jim Cole of 185 QHI Course
212man
1st Apr 2024, 10:23
I only met Graham a couple of times and sad to hear of his passing. Here is a photo of his flying course at Culdrose back in the early 70s.
https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/pprune.org-vbulletin/856x634/johns_71_7ebcdff5696043f23727e5a980ae321ab33f849d.jpg
Is that Mike Tweedie, ex-BSP and of G-REDU fame?
Why is Goddard titled S/Lt but wearing Lt rings?
Just a typing error I think.