Dan Sabovich

Dan Sabovich

June 26, 1925 February 17, 2005

Dan Sabovich passed away on February 17, surrounded by his family that loved him most dearly. With his passing, the communities of Mojave, Bakersfield, and Tehachapi have lost an outstanding citizen, leader, and businessman that devoted his energies to making life better for the people he served. Dans most treasured possession was the friendship of others.

Dan was born in Reedley, California on June 26, 1925 to Zorka and John Sabovich. Dan, as a member of the dwindling greatest generation, served in combat in WWII on the Philippine Island of Luzon as a squad leader of Filipino guerrillas. He was awarded numerous citations to include the Purple Heart.

After the war Dan returned to Bakersfield and joined with his parents and brothers in farming. Dans love of aviation was always first in his heart and on his ranch he had a runway for his airplane which was a novelty in those days. By chance encounter in 1958 with some Edwards AFB test pilots at a static display at Meadows Field, Dan began a lifelong association with the Society of Experimental Test Pilots. Dans love of flying led him to the Mojave Airport where he had the idea of having a Civilian Flight Test Center. Many did not see the vision that Dan had for the airports future but that is history. What followed was 32 years of dedication and love for the airport which was his lifes work.

The honors and recognition he received for his efforts in this life were many, but the honor he most sought was the respect of his community and the friendship of his associates. He will be dearly missed.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Jerri; his daughter, Debbi Gaston; son-in-law, Randy; grandchildren, Dacy Gaston and Drew Gaston. He was predeceased by two children, Mark and Danny who he has now rejoined.

Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 22, at Hillcrest Memorial Park Chapel in Bakersfield.