John Michael Brilla

John Michael Brilla

October 4, 1939 – March 21, 2025

John Michael Brilla, a distinguished aeronautical engineer and cherished family man, passed away peacefully on March 21, 2025, in Roseville, California. Born on October 4, 1939, in Minersville, Pennsylvania, John’s passion for aviation and engineering led him to a remarkable career contributing to the flight testing of some of the most iconic aircraft in history.

After graduating from Minersville High School, John honorably served in the U.S. Navy before earning his degree in aeronautical engineering from Penn State University. His expertise and dedication were instrumental in several groundbreaking flight test programs:

At Sikorsky, he contributed to the flight testing of aircraft used by the armed forces.

While at Langley Air Force Base, he played a pivotal role in the flight testing of the CH-54 "Skycrane", a helicopter renowned for its heavy-lift capabilities.

At Edwards Air Force Base, he was involved in the flight testing of the SH-60 "Blackhawk", a versatile utility helicopter widely used by the U.S. Army.

His tenure with NASA at Moffett Field in Mountain View, California, saw him working on the Rotor Systems Research Aircraft (RSRA), contributing to advanced flight testing of rotorcraft technology.

Beyond his professional achievements, John was a devoted family man who cherished time with his loved ones. He is survived by his sister, Marian Brilla Formichella and her children and grandchildren; his wife of 61 years, Mary Tampson Michel Brilla; his children, Carolyn Brilla Daniels, Tim Brilla, and Chris Brilla; and his five beloved grandchildren, Benjamin, Nicholas, Kylie, Erin, and Chloe. John had a deep affection for dogs, a passion for flying, an adventurous spirit for travel, and a special fondness for his GTO.

In accordance with his family’s wishes, a private celebration of his life will be held. In honor of John’s memory, the family asks that those who knew him take a moment to appreciate the skies he loved so much.