Louis Stuart Casey

My husband and I had the opportunity to know Louis and Rosanne through membership in the little Fork Union Presbyterian Church. What a privilege to know them, such gracious and loving persons

From an old barnstormer, aviation writer and long-time friend of this wonderful, talented and dedicated aviator, historian, husband and father. (the blue sky photo of my biplane has been posted with wife/wing-walker attached)

Betsy and Cindy, Louis and Mary Gwen, Mrs. C.,
Lou out on the lawn on a hot summer evening, in his Bermuda (of course!) shorts, and wreathed in pipe smoke. Samson the boxer dog with him. Many meals at the dining room table, many kids sitting talking out on the front steps. Many kids in a pile on the white Rambler wagon, playing buck-buck. Betsy, remembering yours and Barbara's confirmations at Chevy Chase Presbyterian, and Cindy, your wedding day there. God deal gently with all of you in these days, especially as you gather in DC.

To my friend Louis & family~
At this time of loss, may you be able to rejoice in the memory of your dad. Was he cool, or what?!

I have fond memories of sharing family dinners in Washington, DC, and also of the tour Mr. Casey gave us of the new (at that time) National Air and Space Museum. I'm praying for God's peace as you grieve.

From an "OLD Friend", Dolph Overton

I don't know if it is too late to sign the guest book. Lew was my dear cousin and grand email correspondent. I first met him in that small Vail, Iowa home where all his small home built airplanes hung from his bedroom ceiling. My love to all of you.

Sheila Casey Dobbins

Louis S. Casey, Pioneering NASM Curator
by Phil Edwards, Technical Information Specialist, National Air and Space Museum Library

Louis Casey passed away peacefully at his home in Charlottesville, Virginia, on June 29, just short of his 89th birthday.

Lou was one of the small band of curators that made up the "Aero Department" of the old National Air Museum. Throughout most of his time with the Smithsonian he was the head curator of that department and oversaw the development and caretaking of the aircraft collection during the 1950s-60s timeframe. This was a period when much work was being done to build the national aeronautical collection, working toward establishing a National Air Museum on the National Mall. The collection was growing exponentially in those years because of the fast rate of aeronautical developments achieved during World War II and the post-war jet-age. In addition, the work involved in caretaking a vast assemblage of historical airframes, engines, and associated components spread across several locations was a very demanding responsibility. Lou had to see to it that this was all accomplished despite budget and resources that were not at all adequate.

With one of his proverbial cherry wood tobacco pipes in hand, Lou was always busy going over plans for the restoration of some aircraft, researching some facet of aeronautical history, or receiving the public and many a distinguished pioneer of aviation history in his office or on the floor of the Museum, located in those days in the Arts and Industries Building and a Quonset hut behind the SI Castle. Lou had much to do with bringing a high level of professionalism to the National Air Museum, especially in terms of aircraft restoration work. He played a key role in establishing a restoration shop at Silver Hill. All of us who appreciate the historical and technological depth of the Museum's aircraft collection today are indebted to the efforts of former staff members like Lou Casey.

Here is the obituary on legacy.com. Condolences can be left on this site.

In the photo above are, from left to right, Louis Casey with Paul Garber and Igor Benson with the Benson B-8M Gyro-Copter, Spirit of Kitty Hawk in May 1969.

Roseann, I just found out about Lew's passing. I am so sorry for you and the family. We didn't really know each other but I felt such closeness to Lew through our grandparents. God keep you and your family.

Fair skies and gentle winds for ever, Lew. You and I shared a passion for flying, good stories and the same birth day. When my day comes, you and I shall "sail among the clouds" again.

Roseann, I was so sorry to read of Lou's passing. I have so many wonderful memories of visits with the two you, hearing his stories and experiencing the unique opportunity of seeing the Mohawk mid-restoration. My sincerest condolences to you and your family. I think of you often.

Carolyn, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family in the loss of your sister.

As I read this brief summary of Lou's life, I am struck by all that he accomplished, and how much his family has now lost. How thankful I am for all of his contributions, but most especially as being the father of my very special daughter-in-law. I extend my sympathy to Roseann, Cindy, Betsy, Megan and Louis. God is our refuge and strength.

Mr. Casey played a role in the happiest years of my life, growing up on Ingomar St. In Washington, DC. The Casey house was my second home. Whenever I smell pipe tobacco, I am reminded of him. A great man, husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather.

Our thoughts and prayers are with each and everyone of you.

You are all in mine and my family's prayers, we are thinking of you and I am especially recalling how Betsy's face always lights up with joy when speaking about her Dad. What a family - I love you all, Laura

Dear Rosanne,
We are thinking of you and your family with our sympathy, love, and memories of our friendship in the Fork Union Presbyterian Church. It was very special to know you and Lou, and the two of you enriched the lives of that little parish with your support in all areas.
What a great guy, and what a career!! He made so many contributions in so many places.
Dearest Love and Sympathy,
Mary Helen and Bill Blair

I salute your veteran. My condolences for your loss and gratitude for your loved one's service to our country.

Lou had many friends and I consider myself lucky to be counted as one of them. He will certainly be missed by all of us.