Obituary: Schierman, Wesley Duane
Age 78
Wes was born in St. John, WA on July 21, 1935.
At 17 years old, Wes joined the Washington Air National Guard and served as an Armorer before he earned his pilot wings in 1956.
The only thing that rivaled his love for flying, was his love for Faye Rigsby, whom he met while attending Washington State University (ATO Fraternity).
Wes and Faye married in 1958, and the couple recently celebrated their 55th Wedding Anniversary.
During their marriage, Wes had a long and successful aviation career flying for the WA Air National Guard, the U.S. Air Force, and as a commercial pilot for Northwest Airlines.
Wes was a Prisoner of War in North Vietnam from August 28, 1965 to February 12, 1973.
In 1974, after his incredibly distinguished military career, Wes retired from the U.S. Air Force as a Major and returned to flying for Northwest Airlines, which he retired from in 1995 as a Boeing 747 Captain with over 15,000 flight hours.
In his “free time” Wes became a founding member of the Blackjack Squadron, a group developing a structured training program in formation flying that continues today.
He also enjoyed spending his time with his family and friends, traveling, attending reunions, building and flying airplanes at Arlington, and going to many movies with his wife.
He was a true hero, gentleman, loving husband, father, and friend.
Many loved Wes and all will miss his resilient spirit, positive attitu de, and sense of humor.
Predeceased by his parents, Waldo and Nora Schierman, Wes is survived by his loving wife Faye; his children Sandra Schierman, Steven Schierman (Wendy), and Stacy Schierman; his grandchildren Cassandra Settle, Steven Schierman, and Alexa Schierman; and his sister Sheila Lester.
All are welcome to come celebrate Wes’ remarkable life.
A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, January 21, 2014, at 11 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, 219 4th St. in Endicott, WA 99125, followed by a graveside service, and reception.
A second memorial service for Wes will be held at The Museum of Flight - Boeing Field, 9404 East Marginal Way S. Seattle, WA 98108 at 12:00 p.m. on January 26, 2014.
Donations may be made in Wes’ memory to the Aviation High School “ACE” or “Ground School” Programs, 9229 East Marginal Way S., Tukwila, WA 98108 (206) 631-7200, or Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675 www.support.woundedwarriorproject.org