Michael Povinelli

I knew (if lightly) Mike and Ruth at Cedar Valley 2000-02, before I moved away. I was a novice private pilot, limited to the Schweizers when I could afford to fly at all; they were Skygods, individually and together. With their own sexy glas ships. Military cum commercial pilots. Experts. So fortunate in their lives apart and together.

But was this golden couple of Earth and sky, supercilious or aloof? *Anything but* -- as well knew any who so much as met them, let alone knew them as well as those paying tribute here. They were as gracious as fortunate -- though maybe having some sense, from our own talks and theirs with then-airport manager Brent Davis, that I'd had a harder life road, and was thus to some extent ineluctably coded to resent them.

But I couldn't. Such, their quality.

Mark Powell
Soaring acquaintance

I write this from the city of Dayton, Ohio, home of the Wright Brothers and The Air Force Museum. Today I am contemplating the many historic aviators, aircraft, and monuments. The life Michael led was monumental in so many ways. I am trying to follow his example by continuing to fly for the FedEx Feeder through the pandemic and volunteered to fly dedicated Covid flights. Thanks Michael for your inspiration and example. You always led from the front

Michael and Ruthann are still in my thoughts. A friend of mine reminded me that 1 May 1958 is Michael's birthday and he would now be 62 years old. My best memories of Michael and Ruthann were the enthusiasm and encouragement they shared across the board with everyone they met. I was impressed that their ability to do so emanated from within themselves, an overflowing of giving from the heart. Their positive attitude was contagious. Have an issue or problem? How can we help you. Let's get it done. If you were headed their direction, you were/are always welcome to come along. That was/is their nature. That is the definition of friendship. What words of advice would you have for us in these trying times? I think I hear the words,Find the need and the hurt and lend a hand.

Our family has known the Povinelli family for over 65 years. We have been there and watched Michael grow from a baby into the wonderful man he became. We think of him a lot and Gloria and Louie. Such a beautiful family who will always be in our hearts.
Joyce and Bob Vadjinia and family

Ruthie
I just learned of Michael's accident today, 10-7-16. I'm so sorry for your loss. Michael was one of my favorite squadron mates and a true stand-up guy. I hope time has helped you heal. All my best to you

I met Mike in 1980 At mountain Home AFB we worked on F111 together He was one of my one of the coolest and friendly guy you could ever meet, we keep in touch and while he was in Moreno valley we keep our friendship strong and tried to spend as much time as we would could, I lost touch with him and sadly just found out of his passing today, Will miss Mick god bless your wife and family.

God Bless Mike abd his loved ones.
Sorry i never got to see you agin kid.
See ya on the flip side

Dear Ruthann and other members of Michael's family,
I am so sorry to hear of Michael's tragic accident. Michael was a very good friend I met at March AFB back in 1986. I recall him remodeling his kitchen in Moreno Valley. I recall him reciting part of a poem written by his nephew who was probably in elementary school at the time. His nephew was very proud of his "uncle who flew high in the sky". Eternal rest grant onto him O Lord and may perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace.

We watched him grow into the fine man he came to be. We remember him at the age of nine and playing with a helicopter. He said he would be a pilot when he grows up. He achieved that dream and he continues to soar. God bless his family and give them strength. Love, Joyce, Bob and family

Dear Ruth Ann and Family:
Mike was a great person, soul and friend. Taken way too soon and will be dearly be missed. He was genuine, caring and loving. It won't be the same without him on earth. Our prayers and thoughts go out you and your family. Sorry for not being able convey this in person but you'll be in our thoughts on Jan 9 and 10th. He'll live on in our memories and hearts.
Love you Mike
Your Friend
Wade Carver

Ruth Ann,

Please know we are thinking of you.
With much love,
Julie, Gillian, Leissa, Dianne, Patty

Pov was a great guy. We'll miss him.

Ruth Ann,
My heart goes out to you. You are such a huge part of each other and he will be with you and in you for the rest of your life. His warmth and love will continue from the very core of your being.
Love,
Ann Brown

I feel so blessed to have known Michael and to be able to count him and Ruthann as my friends. He was always so warm and friendly, and a man of real class and great character. I will really miss him. My thoughts and prayers are with Ruthann. May the love and support from family and friends help her through this extremely difficult time.

Love you both,
Kerlyn Andrew

Michael Povinelli, friend, soaring mentor and buddy, caring person…departed but not gone. The memories will be alive forever. Ruthann and Family-our hearts are with you.

Mike was a great man, bigger than life! I'm saddened to hear of his passing; however honored to have known and flown with him. Cedar Valley will miss his smile and friendship. Our hearts are with Ruth during this time and I know that you two will be together again soaring the heavens.

Dear Ruthanne and family, What a delight it was to know Michael. He made a big impact on our lives and was such a wonderful man, as the obituary so beautifully stated. He will be missed! Thank you for sharing him with us. He is a truly unforgettable person. With love, Garth and Charmaine Madsen

Missing you...
Thank you, Michael.

Ross

Pov was good man and a good pilot. Really liked flying with him. Blue Skies Mike.

I really enjoyed flying with Michael. He was such a true professional and had so much to offer. He will be greatly missed

When I hear the name Michael Povinelli, I have a picture in my mind of him during High School days, always smiling.

We shall indeed miss Mike. An officer and a gentleman and a wonderful example to many CAP members, especially cadets.

I have very warm memories of many visits as a child to Michaels parents home . In my earliest memories all Michael coud think about was flying .
I know he accomplished those dreams .
I am so sad his life ended so prematurely .
My deepest condolences to all who loved him .
Fly high among the angels , rest in peace

Michael and Ruthann have played a big part in guiding and mentoring my son in law Jake on his path to attend the Air Force Academy and become an Air Force Pilot. Jake has put forth unwavering hard work and along side his wonderful parents, these friends helped to guide and shape Jake to become the great pilot that he is, but also to become a wonderful husband to my daughter and father to my grandchildren. I would like to thank Michael for leaving a part of his legacy with my family, for He and Ruthann investing there time and effort in a young man with a big dream and for helping him to make his dream a reality! Until we meet again, may you rest well Michael and may Ruthann feel the love and comfort of our Heavenly Father during this difficult time!

God bless you Michael!

I did not know Michael, but my brother flew the KC-10's with him in the Air Force at March AFB and also knew him as fellow Delta pilots. May God welcome him and give peace and rest to an obviously good soul who was well respected and loved by many. An example of the kind of man we should all strive to be. God bless you Michael. I wish I had known you.

It was a pleasure having the opportunity to work with Mike, he will be missed. Rest in Peace my friend.

-John M Cadia

We are deeply saddened by the news of Michael's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Delta Air Lines Pilot Support Center

I am definitely going to miss Mike-----he was sincere, honest, and a good person. Mike Cloutier