James Chilton Esterline

James Chilton Esterline passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Saturday, January 29, 2005, in Sun City, Arizona.Jim was born on November 28, 1914, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Lulu Brown and John Walter Esterline. He married Dorothy Palmer on October 2, 1936. Family and friends celebrated their 68th wedding anniversary earlier this year.He graduated from Shortridge High School in 1932 and from Purdue University in 1937 with a degree in mechanical engineering.Jim retired as general manager from Circuit Controls Corporation, a division of ITT, in Petoskey, Michigan, in 1981. Prior to that he was employed at American Blower Corporation as general manager where he served in sales and engineering capacities in New York City, New York; Toledo, Ohio; Detroit, Michigan; and Columbus, Ohio. He also was general manager of the L.G.S. Spring Clutch Corporation in Mars Hill.While in Indianapolis, Jim was an active member of and served on many committees at North United Methodist Church. When he resided in Michigan, he was chairman of the board of Northern Michigan Hospitals, Inc. He also served as president of Rotary Club, the Chamber of Commerce and the Petoskey-Bay View Country Club. He was also a member of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. He enjoyed snow skiing, golfing, boating, flying, and fishing.When he retired to Arizona, he further pursued his life-long passion for flying. He became involved in the Civil Air Patrol as a mission pilot for Squadron 313 performing search and rescue and border patrol flights. He flew for the CAP until he was 80 years old at which time he retired with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Jim was an officer in the Bell Silvercraft Club. He enjoyed creating custom jewelry for friends and family. Jim is survived by his wife; daughters: Dr. Joan LaFuze, Janet Yosha, and Mary McGarvey; seven grandchildren; and eight great grandchildren. A memorial service was held at All Saints of the Desert Episcopal Church in Sun City of which Jim was a member. Private graveside services will be held in Indianapolis, Indiana, at Crown Hill Cemetery.Arrangements entrusted to Regency Mortuary of Sun City, Arizona. Visit this person¹s Guest Book at www.dailynews-sun.com.