Charles L. "Chuck" Paine

Charles (Chuck) L. PAINE 1922 ~ 2009 Charles (Chuck) Paine passed away peacefully at the VA Medical Center on January 10, 2009, surrounded by his family. Chuck was born 5/1/22 in Eugene, Oregon. He attended U of Oregon and Oregon State. He lived in Eugene until he enlisted in the Army Air Corps the day after Pearl Harbor. He flew the B 24 Liberator bomber and his 492nd squadron BG received a Unit Citation as a Croix de Guerre with palm from the French Government at the squadron reunion in England many years ago. Chuck enjoyed and felt great pride in his career as a pilot with Northwest Airlines for 34 years. He retired as a captain on 747s. His love of aviation inspired several young men to choose that as their lifestyle as well. He liked travel in his retirement and was an enthusiastic photographer. ("Just one more for insurance" the family heard often) He retired 5/1/82 and enjoyed 24 years of a happy retirement. He was a member of QB and RNPA (Retired NW Pilots Ass'n.) Chuck and B. J. Paine have been long time Mercer Islanders and their three children, all graduates of MIHS. When they downsized from their South end Island house, they decided M. I. was "home" and have lived in a condo at the N end since '92. He was preceded in death by his only sister, Phyllis, five years ago. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, B.J.; son, Tom (Marlien), Kirkland, daughter, Katie of Valley Village, CA and son, Randy (Kelly) of Billings. Montana, and proxy daughter, Susan Kelly (Glen) of Waldport, OR. Grandchildren Michael, T.C., Morgan, Brandon, Rachel, Jessica, Lesa, Keven and Erin; nephews Jon and Jim McQuiston, nieces Pam and Nancy, and their families....Chuck was a "gentle man" and a true gentleman and will be missed by his family and many friends. A memorial service will be held at Meydenbauer Bay Yacht Club, 9927 Meydenbauer Way S.E., Bellevue, WA on February 8, 2009 at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to the charity of your choice.