Dick Rutan

My deepest sympathy to his family. I witnessed firsthand his great pilot skills when we were classmates learning to fly the F-100 Super Sabre in 1967 at Luke AFB in Arizona. We had a small class and were close knit. We learned to fly hard and party hard. I had to borrow money to pay for our individual share of post-graduation party bill at the Officer's Club that was manly from broken glass thrown into the fireplace. I was fortunate to be at Edwards AFB for both his departure and recovery on his record Voyager flight. Burt was so excited to see him return that a one-point Dick yelled at him over the radio to back off... "What are you trying to do hit me (cause a mid-air collision)?" He was a great fighter pilot, man and friend.

Throw a nickel on the grass. He will be missed, but not forgotten. RIP 40.

At Oshkosh, after THE flight, Dick was finishing a talk when he saw my 7 year old daughter standing there taking in every word. He stooped down, pointed at her and fingered her over to him. He asked her her name. Then he took one of the pictures they were selling, signed it, and handed it to Crystl. The picture still hangs on our wall. He WILL be missed by so many.

Dick Rutan was an Aviation Legend. He was a colorful character and a genuine nice man. My wife got to know his wife while I was consulting in Palmdale, California. Later we got to spend time with Dick and his wife Kris. Dick and his wife went to dinner with me and my wife to celebrate my birthday. I am still of awe for all that he accomplished. He was a great man! RIP Dick.

This man is an icon. He and his brother will walk the halls of history with the likes of Bob Hoover, Chuck Yeager, Charles Lindbergh, and the Wright Brothers. We will all remember him with fondness for his determination and great respect for his talent. RIP.

Generous man and safety minded pilot. Thank you for the memories and wonderful stories Dick Rutan.

Dick wanted to see this little but very loud experimental jet I brought back to life after it sat for years after Oshkosh. I test flew it first, then flew it into Mojave where Dick was located. We all had breakfast with Dick at the Voyager Cafe where he told some funny and entertaining stories about being a test pilot at Mojave. Dick even paid for breakfast. Upon departure, Dick asked me if he wanted me to call the fire trucks out for the takeoff. I politely declined but thanked him anyway. It was a unique and memorable breakfast for everyone.
Thank you Dick Rutan for that wonderful memory and kindness.
Rest in Peace Sir and thanks for all you've done for aviation !
Roger Wagner

RIP Dick, it was truly a honor to know you! I will never forget our many trips and experiences together. A true legend and American hero.