Our Recent Kiwi Losses
We have been notified of the passing of the following Kiwis, but have no additional information. If you have any details that you can share please let us know. thekiwiclub2ndvicepresident@gmail.com or thekiwiclubwebmaster@gmail.com
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Ellie Sisk Strickland, Feb. 1, 1940 ~ Dec. 27, 2025, South Bay Chapter Class 1960-3
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Barbara Stulginki Rich April 2025 Nashvile MC Chapter Class June 1968
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​Colleen Maley Hughes, passed away November 2024 LAX Chapter​
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Vel Lynne Morgan - June 12, 2024 Class 1953 South Bay Chapter
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Rosemary Prigmore Arrington - April 3, 2024 - MAL
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Laura Schaub Brennan, March 31, 2024. San Diego Chapter. Class 1961-9​​
Glenna Aycock McDermott passed peacefully in Manhattan, NYC on June 8, 2026.
She was born Nov. 13, 1933 in the Medina, Ohio area. A daughter of the late Carl &Mary Jane (Caldwell) Aycock, she was a stewardess for American Airlines for over 50 years.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 45 years, Arthur McDermott; brothers Donald, Jimmy, Robert and Tommy. She is survived by nieces Lisa (Bob) Tramontano, Terri (Jack) Hunter, Donna Mae (Bill) Renninger, Debra (Andrew) Eads and her dearest friends Ginger (Goss), Edith and Hana.
Glenna enjoyed traveling and spent her winters on St. Croix. She enjoyed golfing, playing bridge and scrabble with her friends. Glenna loved her city of New York and all it had to offer -- parks, Broadway shows, restaurants, shopping, and the hustle and bustle!
She was a terrific hostess; entertaining and cooking brought her much happiness. She lived a blessed life and enjoyed it to the fullest. She will be greatly missed by family and lifelong friends.
A private service will be held in St. Croix at a later date.
JFK 2004
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Narnie Woddail Roll (September 5, 1924 – March 8 2026) was born in Beaumont, Texas, and showed an extraordinary gift for music from early childhood—teaching piano lessons by age 12. A graduate of Texas Women’s University with a degree in Music Pedagogy, she began her career as a musician and educator before following a new path in 1946 as an American Airlines stewardess.
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During the golden age of aviation, Narnie flew throughout the U.S. and Mexico, forming lifelong friendships and remaining an active member of the Kiwi Club. A gifted composer, she later wrote and performed the beloved Kiwi Song for the organization’s national convention.
Her complete obituary can be read by clicking here.
A Celebration of Life reception will be held March 28th, 3-6pm at the Hillcrest Country Club. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Narnie Roll’s name to the Bartlesville Community Foundation for the continuing support of the arts, education and culture in Bartlesville.
Virginia (Ginny) Derr Hardie passed away suddenly on Monday, March 9. She was born on June 10, 1958 and in Class 1984-30. One of the defining chapters of Ginny's life was her career as a flight attendant for American Airlines, where she proudly served for 37 years. After retiring, she remained deeply connected to the aviation community and quickly became President of the Kiwi Club - Club Newark. She was especially proud of this work, which brought her deep fulfillment in her retirement years.
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In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Ginny's memory to the Common Ground Grief Center in Manasquan, NJ. https://www.commongroundgriefcenter.org
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Condolences may be sent to her husband
Rick Hardie 2799 Lewis Ct. Wall, NJ 07719
Click here to read Ginny's full obituary​
Ronna Edwards Baird, age 75, of Chapel Hill, TN passed away on Friday, February 27, 2026 at her residence. She was born in Franklin, TN to the late Ronald Lloyd Edwards and Charlotte Mary Zimmerman Edwards. Ronna was retired from American Airlines as a flight attendant with over 36 years of service. She was a member of Chapel Hill Church of Christ, and a former member of Woodson Chapel Church of Christ. For many years, Ronna volunteered with the animal shelter in Williamson County.
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Ronna loved flying and motorcycle riding. She had a deep passion for animals of all kinds. She enjoyed trips to the beach and going shopping. She was passionate about street rod cars and making jewelry. Most of all she enjoyed time spent with family and making memories.
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Ronna is survived by her loving husband of 46 years, Steve Baird of Chapel Hill, TN; brothers, Dick (Mary) Edwards of Clinton, AR, Tom (Brenda) Edwards of Temple, TX; nephews, Jeffrey Edwards, Rich Edwards, Hank Edwards; mother in law, Betty Baird; step mother in law, Barbara Baird; and many cousins.
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Leokadia Gougeon, 75, passed away on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at CentraState Medical Center in Freehold Township. Born in Munich, Germany, she immigrated to the United States in 1951, initially settling in Fords, and then raising her family in Edison before moving to Freehold Township in 1993.
Lee had a distinguished 42-year career in the airline industry, serving as a flight attendant for Eastern Air Lines and later American Airlines until her retirement in 2014. Her career allowed her to travel the world extensively. In her retirement, she remained active in the aviation community as a member of The Kiwi Club, Prior to becoming a flight attendant, Lee was one of the first Clinique Girls at Bamberger’s in the Menlo Park Mall. She also enjoyed visiting Atlantic City and found great joy in "retail therapy."
She was predeceased by her husband, Joseph Gougeon. Lee is survived by her son, Anthony Balletta of Freehold Township, daughter, Nadine Brescher and her husband, Scott of Colonia; her sisters, Taisa Niepiejn
and Regina Kayla and her husband, Thomas; her nieces and nephews; and her faithful
feline companion, Smokey.
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Linda McQueen - August 20, 1948 - November 6, 2025.
Linda was a member of the ATL chapter. In 1972 an oxygen bottle used to assist a passenger exploded, burning Linda’s face, hair and clothing. Against all odds she survived the near fatal accident and brutal recovery and was informed she could no longer fly. She successfully fought to get her job back and lived a life dedicated to helping uninsured burn survivors.
She is the founder of Heart-Burn Foundation, a 501(c)(3) based in GA. Linda’s 2019 book, “Taking Flight” was co-authored by LAX Kiwi Member Bertha Tease and is available on Amazon.
Julianna “Julie” P. Lipshy was based in Dallas and enjoyed a distinguished 30-year career with American Airlines, serving from April 24, 1969, until her retirement in 1999. She was in class 69-24.
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Julie passed away unexpectedly on December 27, 2025, in Norman, Oklahoma, where she was laid to rest. She shared a loving 50-year marriage with her husband, Jay S. Lipshy. Together they made their home in Dallas, Texas, and also spent time at their residence in Norman.
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Julie was known as a gracious and kind woman. Colleagues remember her fondly from domestic flights out of Dallas. She was a member of the DFW/Midcities chapter and attended the Kiwi Convention in Oklahoma City with her good friend, Diane Murdock.
To read Julie’s full obituary, click here.
Glenna “Giene” Brongiel, age 83, passed away peacefully in her home on Dec. 2, 2025. Genie was a long time member of the O'Hare Kiwi Chapter.
Giene was a retired American Airlines flight attendant devoting over 40 years to her career. She was raised in her beloved town of Orrville, Ohio where she maintained lifelong friendships. She loved watching Ohio State football and cheering for her Buckeyes. She will be remembered for her spirit of generosity and witty personality, leaving her many friends with treasured memories. Giene is preceded in death by her sister, Ardythe Miles and her mother Fran Stevens.
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Bettye Jo Beeson Betts, 85, of Atlanta, Georgia, passed away peacefully on November 30, 2025.
Bettye was born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, and carried the grace and charm of her hometown throughout her life. She graduated from the American Airlines Stewardess College in 1959 and began her flying career based in Los Angeles. In 1962, she left American Airlines, married Naval Officer Fred Rockwell Betts, and moved to Honolulu, where his ship was stationed.
Two milestones defined those years: the birth of their son, and Bettye’s founding of the Honolulu Kiwi Club, where she proudly served as its first President.
Life later took the family back to Southern California, where Bettye joined the Anaheim Chapter of The Kiwi Club. Another move brought them to San Diego, and once again Bettye stepped up to serve as Chapter President. Eventually, the family settled in Atlanta, where Bettye continued her deep involvement in all things Kiwi. She held multiple roles on the National Kiwi Board and served as co-chair of the 1992 National Convention in Atlanta.
In 2008, the National Board honored her enduring contributions by presenting her with the inaugural Polly Toll Goodman Award—one of the most meaningful recognitions from The Kiwi Club.
Bettye often spoke of her flying days with great fondness, especially the time she danced the length of the aisle with Bob Hope, and the privilege of hosting Eleanor Roosevelt en route to the Democratic National Convention in Los Angeles.
After retiring from flying, Bettye built her own business, Handmade Treasures, representing Georgia quilters and helping preserve their heirloom work for future generations.
Bettye’s life was marked by service, leadership, creativity, and a generosity of spirit that left every community she touched a little better than she found it. She will be remembered with gratitude and affection by all who knew her, especially her Kiwi sisters in Atlanta. Please click here to read her complete obituary.
*A note from Bettye's daughter: "We are in Maui preparing to spread my parent's ashes together on Wednesday, Dec.31, 2025, the one year anniversary of my Dad's passing. This picture is of both of their urns in their condo overlooking Mapili Bay where we will tell them goodbye. This was their favorite place in the world and this was their favorite view.
Thank you for your love and kind words. She was touched that the Kiwi's cared so much."
The address to use for cards is:
Barbara Betts
Rebecca (Becky) Hitchcock Rogers - May 23, 1933 - Nov 2, 2025 Becky was a member of the Tulsa chapter and was in class 1954-08. She grew up in Missouri graduated from Central High School (Springfield) in 1951. She then attended college at Bryan University in Dayton, TN and Westmont College in Santa Barbara, CA.
At age 21, Becky joined American Airlines as an airline stewardess. She was based in Tulsa, where she met and married her late husband, Claude H. Rogers (1931-2002). They were married in Springfield, MO on January 7, 1956.
She loved her church, family, and friends. Becky enjoyed her home, decorating, antiques, and traveling. When it came to traveling, Hawaii was her "happy place." She was a hospice volunteer at St. John's Hospice for nine years. Becky also enjoyed being a member of the Kiwi Club. Click here to read Becky's complete obituary.
Dee Van Hoy Grinnell passed away last Friday, October 31. She was 98 years old. Fortunately, in September, Marilyn Costigan, Ann Delaney, Charlotte Marz, and Polly Toll Goodman were able to join her for lunch. They had been friends for nearly 60 years. The Kiwis and American Airlines were a big part of her life and a part that gave her great joy and, as she said, the most beautiful friendships.
After graduating from nursing school and working as a nurse in Indianapolis for 2 years, Dee joined
the American Airlines Stewardess Corps—Class 49-5. She was based briefly in BUF and FTW before transferring to LAX. In 1951 she met Bill Grinnell, who was a neighbor in Manhattan Beach. They were married for 68 years until Bill passed away in 2019. They have two children, Greg and Gretchen; two grandchildren, Kelly and Cody; and seven great-grandchildren.
Dee was a charter member of the Los Angeles chapter, beginning in 1952, serving in many offices, including president from 1974 to 1976. She was a big supporter of all of our chapter activities and charitable endeavors. In 1978 she joined the Kiwi Sales program in Los Angeles and was a member of that team through the termination of the program in 2001.
Condolences may be sent to her daughter.
Gretchen Fiske
2960 E Willow Drive
Mohave Valley, AZ 86440
Michael Engler passed away on September 23, 2025. He was the devoted husband of Past President and current Advisor to The Kiwi Club, Sam Gooch. Though not a Kiwi himself, Michael became a beloved part of our organization. At conventions he was a constant presence—working tirelessly in the boutique, assisting with the Silent Auction, and keeping our technology running smoothly.
His efforts and dedication touched every member, and in recognition of his many contributions, Michael was honored with The President’s Cup at the 2022 Fort Worth Convention.
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Michael’s obituary can be read by clicking here.
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Condolences may be sent to:
Sam Gooch
1071 Carlisle Pl
Mt. Juliet, TN 37122
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Jerry Ann (Wheatley) Piontkowski, 89, passed away at her home in New Salisbury, Indiana on Monday September 15th, 2025, after an 11-month battle with pancreatic cancer.
Jerry was born March 6, 1936, in Percy, Illinois, and lived a life filled with adventure, kindness, and friendship. After graduating from Washington University as a nurse, she joined American Airlines in 1958 as part of the first class at Stewardess College. Flying became her passion, and The Kiwi Club remained a cornerstone of her life—she served as a president, national officer, and faithful attendee at conventions for decades, cherishing the bond with her stewardess sisters.
Don't miss reading Jerry's wonderful obituary! Click here to read Jerry's obituary.
Dorothy (Dottie) Gough - January 21, 1940 - August 18, 2025​
Dottie was a graduate of Bucknell University in Pennsylvania and grew up in Scarsdale, New York. She graduated from AA Stewardess College in 1961-4 and was a base manager of flight attendants in Los Angeles for many years. Dottie had a condo in Pelican Bay and decided about ten years ago to move back to Long Island to be closer to her family.​
Dottie remained a loyal and faithful member of the SW Florida Kiwi Chapter even though she no longer resided in Naples. I remember Dottie as always being high-minded and never betraying confidence. I know her family will miss her as will many of her friends and the Kiwis who knew her.
Janice Dee Carletti January 2, 1936 – July 10, 2025
Janice Dee Carletti, 89, of Sapulpa, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully of natural causes on July 10, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was the eldest of six children, a role she embraced with leadership and love from an early age. Her strong work ethic and determination were evident throughout her life, beginning with her graduation as salutatorian from Hartshorne High School.
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After high school, Janice began her professional journey with the FBI in Washington, D.C., serving as a fingerprint specialist. She later became a TWA stewardess, traveling extensively and creating lasting memories before returning to Oklahoma to marry her high school sweetheart, John F. Carletti. Together, they raised five children.
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To read Janice's full obituary click here.
Jeanne Wightman Lyons - 8/18/33 ~ 5/9/25
Jeanne was in the class of 55-8 and had been a long time member of the South Bay Chapter.
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Should you wish to send condolences to Jeanne’s daughter and son, here is the address:
Ms. Linda Riden
Mr. Paul Lyons
6352 Sundance Kid Dr.
Colorado Springs CO 80923
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To read her full obituary click here.
Patricia Ann Fitzgereld, 9/15/1946 - 4/11/2025. Patricia was a retired AA flight attendant who had been based in NY and DCA. She was a member of the DCA Kiwi Club.
After graduating from Youngstown State and serving in the homecoming court in 1968, Patty taught high school English and coached the cheerleading squad at Union High School in Rimersburg, PA. Patty then trained to be a flight attendant with American Airlines and flew domestic flights for 24 years, building lifelong friendships with a group of flight attendants called “Kiwis.”
To read her complete obituary click here.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Katherine (Kathy) Clements Crandall, passed away peacefully at home on March 22, 2025. Born in Little Rock, Arkansas, Kathy grew up in Dallas She attended Texas Tech University before embarking on a 30 year career as a flight attendant with American Airlines
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Kathy was deeply dedicated to helping others, particularly through her work with the Wings Foundation, Inc. (www.wingsfoundation.com She served in multiple leadership roles, including National Treasurer and President, and was honored with the prestigious Marie Lockbaum Award for her outstanding contributions. She was also an active member of The Kiwi Club, a philanthropic social organization for current and former flight attendants.
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While stationed in Dallas, Kathy met the love of her life, Woodruff (Woody) Crandall, LT USN, while sailing on Lake Ray Hubbard in Rockwall, Texas. They married in November 1985 in Fairfax, Virginia, and embraced the adventure of Navy life, moving frequently until Woody’s retirement in 1991. They later settled in Clifton, Virginia, before making Melbourne, Florida, their home in 2013.
She is survived by her devoted husband, Woody; her beloved sons, Cortland Willis Crandall and Clayton Harris Crandall.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wings Foundation, Inc. (www.wingsfoundation.com) or the American Cancer Society in support of esophageal cancer research.
Kathy will be remembered for her kindness, dedication, and adventurous spirit. She touched the lives of many and will be dearly missed.
​Mario Thomas Pedano 75 of Ocala, Florida, passed away on Tuesday, March 18, 2025.
Born June 3rd , 1949, in Passaic NJ. Beloved brother to his two sisters Serina Pedano and Lucretia Pedano-Michael. Tom will always be remembered as a loving, kind and caring person. His love of family and friends meant so much to him, as did his love of flying and aviation.
Tom was in AA class 72-10 and was a member of the DFW/Mid-Cities Kiwi chapter. On one of his flights, Tom had a diabetic incident and was fired because of the diabetes. He fought and got his job back which opened the door for other people with diabetes to be hired.
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Connie Clark - Class of 1961-6 South Bay Chapter.
No formal Celebration of Life is planned for Connie.
Just enjoy the photos and remember the special times shared with her!
Eileen Vaquilar Clifford - 11/27/1956 – 2/20/2025
With heavy hearts, we share the sad news of the passing of Eileen Vaquilar Clifford, our national secretary and a beloved member of The Kiwi Club. Eileen’s kindness, dedication, and friendship touched so many lives, and her memory will always be treasured. ​In this time of sorrow, our thoughts are with her family.
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​Sympathy cards may be sent to Eileen's father and brother (same name) at: Felix Vaquilar 5397 W Calimyrna Ave , Fresno CA 93722.
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To assist with funeral expenses, her brother, Felix Vaquilar, has set up a GoFundMe page. If you would like to help, click here to contribute.
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Eileen's Obituary can be read it by clicking here. Eileen Vaquilar Clifford
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​May we find comfort in shared memories and prayers.
Diana (Dee) Kay Devotie Reddington, passed away on January 30, 2025, at Escondido Hospital in California. Dee was born on July 23, 1940 and was in AA Class 61-1. She was a longtime member of the Louisville Chapter.
A resident of Lakeland, Florida, Dee will be lovingly remembered by her family and friends.
Her husband, retired AA Captain Ivan Reddington, has shared that her ashes will be scattered at sea near San Diego, California. Condolences may be sent to him at:
Ivan Reddington
6432 Highlands in the Woods St.
Lakeland, FL 33813
Barbara Damon Olszewski - January 26, 2025.
It is with regret and sadness that I inform you of the unexpected passing of Long Island Kiwi member Barbara Damen Olszewski. Class 1967 - July.
Barbara's family expects to have a memorial service some time in the future.Details will be posted here as they become available.
Cards to Barbara's daughter Krista Tanner and son Michael Olszewski can be sent to:
Krista Tanner and Michael Olszewski
19 Monarch Ave
Selden NY 11784
Janice Marcell Zinno Allen - Oct. 15, 1946 - January 3, 2025
A Memorial Mass will be held for Jan on Friday, January 17, 2025 at 10:00 AM
at St. Maximilian Kolbe Catholic Church...5801 Kanan Road, Westlake Village, CA...91362
There will be a private burial for the family only, following the Mass.
Everyone is then invited to join a Celebration of Life for Jan at her family home.
4378 Paseo Santa Catarina....Newbury Park, CA...91320
If you plan on attending, please contact Rick at: 805-402-4058
You can read Jan's life story here.
Florida Suncoast Kiwi member Sandy Marlowe Gardner, passed away on Dec. 27, 2024 two days before her 80th birthday from complications of Alzheimers disease.
Sandy was a lovely person, inside and out, and she truly loved the Kiwi Club and her Kiwi friends. We miss her very much...Condolences may be sent to her husband, John Gardner at 11895 Grand Isles Lane Fort Myers, FL 33913
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Sandy's full obituary can be found here.
Vivian celebrating her 95th birthday in 2024.
Vivian Fitzpatrick Kiley: ​Vivian died November 7, 2024. She was one of the founders of our OC/LB Kiwi Chapter and will truly be missed by all. The OC/LB chapter has prepared a beautiful tribute that can be read here. Tribute to Vivian Kiley
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Here is an exerpt: "Vivian earned her wings with American Airlines and began flying in 1950. At that time in the airline industry, falling in love and marrying meant you were now grounded, After flying for three years, Vivian met and married her husband, Richard Kiley, in 1953. in the following years their family grew to included two sons, Michael and John.
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Though Vivian wings were "clipped", she always retained her love for American Airlines and flying. She was active in the Kiwi sales program sponsored by AA, which kept her connected to the former job she missed so much."​​
Susan Marie Cycon: September 30, 1919 - December 13, 2024.
After a childhood spent in Chippewa Falls, she earned her degree at the University of Minnesota. Following college Sue went to work in Minneapolis writing articles for the local newspaper.
Sue eventually left the newspaper to pursue a career as a stewardess for American Airlines. It was during this time that she met and married Edward Cycon, a U.S. Air Force Veteran and a Captain for American Airlines. Sue happily cared for passengers for many years; she was recently spotted still proudly wearing her wings! To read the full obituary of this amazing women who live to be 105 years old, click here:.
​Elaine Ethel Mesigh, a recent resident of Norman, OK, passed away September 25, 2024, surrounded by her family. She was born May 26, 1928, in Allentown, PA, to Florence (Roth) and Charles R. Ehrich and graduated from William Allen High School in 1946. After graduation, Elaine’s path took her on many journeys. She was a dancer in various traveling groups and highlighted her career dancing with the NYC Rockettes.
Her course changed when she and her sister Betty joined American Airlines and flew as stewardesses. By the early 50s, she was in Tulsa and had married Herbert J. Mesigh. Elaine’s journey took her to OKC where Herb was establishing a new business. She chose to work in the government and private sectors. She enjoyed her involvement with new ideas, helping others, and making a better life in the community.
Herb and Elaine were charter members of Our Lord’s Lutheran Church in OKC.
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(Peggy) Jean Atherton, 96, died on September 18, 2024, in Trumbull, CT. She was one of the founding members of the Southwest Florida chapter of the Kiwi Club (Naples). Jean was as beautiful on the inside as outside. Such a wonderful woman…she will be missed by many.
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Jean grew up in Beverly Hills and Hermosa Beach, California, studied theater at UCLA and was a member of Alpha Phi Sorority. Jean was a natural leader, serving as president of her high school Girls’ League, president of CT alumni chapter of Alpha Phi, VP of the American Women’s League in Sydney, Australia, VP of the Newcomers Club in New Canaan and a founding member of the Kiwi Club in Naples, FL.
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After graduation in 1949, she joined the pioneering young women in the early days of commercial aviation as an American Airlines stewardess based out of Chicago. She left behind her beloved airline career once married and began her happiest years raising three children, beginning in southern California, then predominately in New Canaan, CT where they moved in 1959 and lived until Stan’s retirement from IBM in 1987. The family also spent two years living in Sydney, Australia in the early sixties, which was a highlight of Jean’s abundant life. A loving, faithful and creative mother, she devoted care to her family until the day she died. Click here to read Peggy's full obituary.
Beverly J. Barbarito, of Cherry Hill, NJ, passed away peacefully on September 16, 2024. She was 84 years old. Born and raised in Akron, Ohio,
Beverly moved to New York City to become a stewardess, and there met her husband, Frank. She and Frank have shared a legendary love story for the 61 years of their marriage, 57 years of which were spent in Cherry Hill, NJ.
Her family is her legacy, and her favorite activity was doting on her grandchildren, but she loved walking, baking, and reading, She was proud to be a member of the PHL chapter of The Kiwi Club (retired American Airlines stewardesses). Click here to read her obituary.
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Nancy Davis McKeever, a member of the South Bay Chapter passed away on September 10, 2024. More information will be posted here as it comes in.
​Kathleen "Kay" M. Fasano, 83, a resident of Palatine for 50 years passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 3, 2024. During an era when young women were expected to marry after high school Kay was determined to see the world. She set her sights on a career as a flight attendant and began working for Mohawk airlines in 1959.
Her career would change her life in more ways than one. On a routine flight from New York to Chicago, she met Victor Fasano, a business traveler from Chicago who would become the love of her life. Their serendipitous meeting in the skies led to a beautiful marriage of 39 years and three beautiful daughters.Kay’s airline career spanned over 53 years and she retired from American Airlines in 2012. Kay traveled the globe and built lifelong friendships. Click here for full obituary
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Mary Alice Stringfellow Wright (August 26, 2024) was born on March 18, 1935, the ninth of 14 children in Wetumka, Oklahoma to WJ and Ollie Stringfellow.
Mary Alice graduated from Wetumka High School in 1953 and moved to Tulsa to work at Hotel Tulsa, then became a teller at First National Bank where she met her future husband, Patrick Nolan Wright. She then became a flight attendant at American Airlines, before marrying Nolan in Wetumka on January 18th, 1957. Mary Alice and Nolan had two children, Patrick Nolan Wright, Jr. and Lisa Kay Wright Coronado.
After raising her children, she returned to banking and then worked in the marketing department for American Airlines for the next 20 years. In 1972, while still working for American Airlines, she and Nolan bought the Virginia Lee Apartments, providing affordable housing for individuals in east Tulsa to this day.
Mary Alice will be greatly missed by all that knew her. Her smile charmed the room, her laughter brought comfort. She loved her family with strength and compassion.
Mary Alice lived an adventurous life traveling the world with American Airlines and her loved ones.
Velma Guy Tolbert, (2/18/1931 - 8/23/2024) was a bright, independent and spirited woman, who grew up in the small town of Kinnear's Mills, Quebec, Canada.
As a young woman, her world would dramatically change after she was recruited by American Airlines in 1954. Based in New York City and Los Angeles, Velma was the first stewardess at American who was not a nurse. Eventually, Velma was promoted to Supervisor of Stewardesses (now known as flight attendants). Her job included interpreting union contracts, orienting and training flight attendants and serving as their first-line manager. For the remainder of her life, Velma enjoyed her association with the KIWIs, a group of former American Airlines' flight attendants.
In 1966, Velma was hired by the New York Stock Exchange, where she became Supervisor of the Wage, Salary and Benefits Division. This rank was an extraordinary feat for a female at that time (and especially considering that the New York Stock Exchange had 3,500 employees).
Velma was a long time member of the Houston Chapter. To read Velma's full obituary click here
Karen Bloomquist Bremer was 97 when she died on August 17, 2024 after a fall. Karen was born in Jamptland, Sweden. This lady with the ever smiling face graduated in the class of 50-3, and flew for one year. Karen shared her most interesting experience while flying: "On a flight from London to New York both engines were lost (one on each side of the plane). We were flying beyond the point of no return, so the captain dropped altitude and got rid of extra fuel. Looking out the window you could see the swells in the ocean. After a safe landing I kissed the ground." This occurred before the jet age!
American Overseas Airline (AOA) needed linguists and since she spoke Swedish, Karen was transferred to AOA and was based in NY. Pan American bought AOA and she was hired. Karen was based in NY, and also London. She often flew the London - Hong Kong route. After retiring from AA, Karen married and moved to Atlanta where she worked as secretary for several local companies. Karen has a daughter, son, six adult grandchildren, and four great grandchildren.
Margot Crutchfield Ries - National President 1978-1980
Past National President, Margot Crutchfield Ries passed August 13, 2024 in Tulsa. Margot was a member of Class 58-13. She joined The Kiwi Club in 1960 as a member of the SFO Peninsula Chapter. After moving to southern California she was a member of the San Gabriel Valley Chapter and later a member of the Phoenix chapter where she served as chapter president.
Margot was elected to the national board as 2nd Vice President 1976-78 and served as national President 1978-80, receiving her Life Membership in 1988. In 2010, she re-located to Tulsa to assist her sister, Tulsa Kiwi Barbara Crutchfield Higgins (class 53-6). Margot served as TUL chapter president until it disbanded in 2022. A memorial service is being planned in Tulsa for September 29. She is survived by her nieces, Laura Cope and Mallory Boltinhouse.
Condolences may be sent to.
Laura Cope
10013 South 94th East Ave
Tulsa, OK 74133
Dorothy Ruth Steward Butts - It is unfortunate to announce the passing of one of our former Dallas Kiwis on July 25, 2024.
Dorothy was in Class 53-4 and was an American Airlines Stewardess until 1958 when she married her
husband Henry Butts Jr. She then became an active member of the Dallas Kiwi group for approximately 60 years.
You may send condolences to her family on dignitymemorial.com . There is also a full obituary there.
Gloria West Saucier has Flown West (June 12, 2024) at the age of 100. She was a treasured member of the Las Vegas Kiwi Club for many years. It was a treat to see her arrive at Kiwi events in her Mini Cooper, impeccably dressed and beautifully groomed with an amazing zest for life.
Gloria remained active in the community well into her late nineties and received many accolades and awards. She had her pilot's license before her driver's license. She served her country in the U.S. Marine Corp. and was selected in her 90's to fly to Washington D.C. as a member of the "Honor Flight". She threw the First Pitch at the Las Vegas Aviator game when she was ninety five. At ninety seven she flew in an open cockpit Stearman biplane over Nevada. One of her most beloved jobs was that of a TWA Stewardess when Howard Hughes was a regular. The DC3 was her favorite plane. The Las Vegas Kiwi Club is richer for having had her as a member.
To read more about Gloria's fasinating life click here. Gloria West Saucier Obituary
Pilar Hornbuckle Hale - On June 20, 2024, Pilar Hale, 89, of Torrance, CA passed away peacefully after a diagnosis of an aggressive brain tumor. Pilar was born Edine Elizabeth Hornbuckle on August 28, 1934, in Nashville, Tennessee, to Jane and Edward Hornbuckle. She graduated from Hillsboro High School in Nashville, where she was fondly known as Deanie Hornbuckle.
After graduating high school, Pilar attended Vanderbilt University for two years. In 1955, she embarked
on a career as a stewardess with American Airlines, during which time she was known as Dee
Hornbuckle.... Please click here for more photos and Pilar's complete obituary.
Sandy Gilman Wilner, Past National President of The Kiwi Club and former American Airlines stewardess passed away after a brief illness on Saturday, June 8, 2024. She was 88. Sandy was a passionate advocate of The Kiwi Club and founded the Kiwi Sales Program in the ‘70’s to give former stewardesses and flight attendants, who had to retire from flying too soon, an opportunity to work in the industry they loved so much. Sandy’s love for The Kiwi Club was evident and she treasured the lifelong friendships she made there.
During Sandy’s National Presidency she became pregnant with her only child, Victoria. In 2017, Sandy moved from Southern California to live with Victoria and her family in New Jersey. While not thrilled with the colder climate of New Jersey she loved living with her daughter, son-in-law and only grandchild, Margarete. She loved being a grandmother and was so proud to see her granddaughter perform in high school plays and was even recently interviewed by Margarete about her being a stewardess and Kiwi! To see Sandy’s interview… Sandy's Interview (strengthleaders.com)
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A Memorial Service is planned for later this summer. The service will be streamed live for anyone who wishes to attend. More information and the link to be posted later. To send condolences and share your memories please reach out to her daughter:
Victoria Calkins
17 Trouville Drive
Parsippany, NJ 07054
If you have a death of a Kiwi to report; please notify all of the following:
2nd VP, Kathy Schmidt Kuzminski - 2ndvp@thekiwiclub.org
Webmaster Jill Richey Rohan - thekiwiclubwebmaster@gmail.com