Gary Lee Somerton

1960 - 2017

Gary Lee Somerton, a United Airlines Captain and resident of Port Orange, FL, died unexpectedly on April 1, 2017 at the age of 57. Gary is survived by his wife Christine Russell Banks; his children, Kyliegh, Cole, Andrew Banks and Katherine Banks; his siblings, David Somerton of Oklahoma City, OK, Linda Foster and Patty (Frank) Merriam, all of Pittsburgh, PA; and a host of nieces, nephews, in-laws, long-time friends and co-workers. He is predeceased by his parents John and Ruth (Fenton) Somerton and his sister Judith McCaskey. Gary was born in Pittsburgh, PA on February 16, 1960. He graduated from Brashear High School and Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics where he studied aviation technology and aircraft maintenance. He began his career in aviation as an airplane mechanic, ultimately achieving his dream of becoming a pilot. He has served United Airlines as a pilot for more than 20 years, most recently as a Captain of the 737. On November 21, 2015, Gary and Christine were married in a beachside service in Ormond Beach, FL. They settled with their four children at the Spruce Creek Fly-In, where they embraced the family lifestyle of the surrounding aviation community. Gary pursued his passion for flying beyond his career as a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA Chapter 288), serving as an Eagle pilot and an Aviation Explorer volunteer. He took great pleasure in gatherings at "The Tree" and his many gaggle flights. In addition to spending time with his family and fellow-aviation enthusiasts, Gary enjoyed the beach and Jimmy Buffet tunes. A memorial service is scheduled for 11 AM on Friday, April 14 at the Port Orange Presbyterian Church located at 4662 S. Clyde Morris Blvd., Port Orange, FL 32128. The Reverend Calvin Gittner will officiate. Memorial donations may be offered to the Gary Somerton Memorial Fund administered by EAA Chapter 288, which is intended to support aviation education for youth (https://squareup.com/market/eaa-chapter-288). Condolences may be shared with the family at lohmanfuneralhomes.com. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to friends and neighbors, the Port Orange Presbyterian Church and to Gary's extended aviation family for their outpouring of love and support.