FLT LT PFCA 'PETE' THORN - RIP
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FLT LT PFCA 'PETE' THORN - RIP
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, being CFI at CSE Oxford, 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, being CFI at CSE Oxford, 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!
Last edited by flipster; 15th Sep 2011 at 19:28.
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Thanks for the info Flip.
I knew Pete from both the Moth club and looking after Victor Gauntlett's Aircraft collection that Pete used to help with, then met Pete on numerous other occasions, always a good man to have around.
Happy Landings Pete - RIP
I knew Pete from both the Moth club and looking after Victor Gauntlett's Aircraft collection that Pete used to help with, then met Pete on numerous other occasions, always a good man to have around.
Happy Landings Pete - RIP
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Message from Pete's family
Dear All
Firstly can we say from the bottom of our hearts thank you so much for all the kind thoughts, wishes and happy memories that have been pouring in over the past few days. It has been a massive boost to us at this time of deep sadness after Pete's death.
From all the correspondence we have received, it has been wonderful to read what an inspiration Pete was to the world of aviation over his long and illustrious career and it seems obvious his passion for flying has left its mark on countless pilots and students over the decades. This is something that we can take massive comfort in as we knew he "never worked a day in his life" We are so proud.
As a family we have decided to have a private cremation but to then have a thanksgiving / memorial service on Monday 17th October.
This will take place at, Woodstock Parish Church at 14:00.
woodstock uk - Google Maps
Parking can be found throughout the town and there is a small car park located behind the fire station.
It would be very kind if you could let us know if you will be coming.
We look forward to welcoming everybody to celebrate and remember Pete's life.
Again many thanks to you all for your invaluable support.
Blue skies
June, Claire and Justin
[email protected] / [email protected]
Dear All
Firstly can we say from the bottom of our hearts thank you so much for all the kind thoughts, wishes and happy memories that have been pouring in over the past few days. It has been a massive boost to us at this time of deep sadness after Pete's death.
From all the correspondence we have received, it has been wonderful to read what an inspiration Pete was to the world of aviation over his long and illustrious career and it seems obvious his passion for flying has left its mark on countless pilots and students over the decades. This is something that we can take massive comfort in as we knew he "never worked a day in his life" We are so proud.
As a family we have decided to have a private cremation but to then have a thanksgiving / memorial service on Monday 17th October.
This will take place at, Woodstock Parish Church at 14:00.
woodstock uk - Google Maps
Parking can be found throughout the town and there is a small car park located behind the fire station.
It would be very kind if you could let us know if you will be coming.
We look forward to welcoming everybody to celebrate and remember Pete's life.
Again many thanks to you all for your invaluable support.
Blue skies
June, Claire and Justin
[email protected] / [email protected]
