Edward Adelson

1929 - 2013

Adelson, Edward 84, Aerospace /Avionics pioneer, Air Force Veteran, Massachusetts Institute of Technology graduate (Class of '50) passed away comfortably and peacefully on November 1, 2013 Edward was born April 27, 1929 in Boston Massachusetts. During his military service in the Air Force and as part of the Korean War Edward was an electronics officer supporting F-80 and F-86 fighter pilots. While part of the original start- up team at Chrysler Missile Division Ed worked alongside Magnus Van Braun in the development, deployment and installation of the Red Stone Rocket in the United States. Later, as part of the Jupiter Project he oversaw the installations of Intermediate Range Ballistic Missiles in Europe. While at Martin Marietta, Edward provided significant contributions to the Titan Missile program. As Vice President of Operations and later as V.P. of Industry Activities at Aeronautical Radio Incorporated (ARINC) Ed offered world-wide contributions and direct influence on aviation world-wide through major roles in various international air/ground data link communications Initiatives. He served with distinction in the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the Future Air Navigation System (FANS and FANS II). He also contributed greatly to the International Air Transportation Association (IATA) Operations and Flight Operations Committees and the RTCA Inc., Program Management Committee. Through these originations and efforts Edward helped to develop the Communications, Navigation, Surveillance/Air Traffic Management concepts that are the foundation for all modern air traffic management. Ed's many contributions to avionics are commemorated in the National Air and Space Museum, Dulles Faculty. Mr. Adelson is survived by his son, Stephan Adelson, step children Sherry Latimer, Susie Winternitz, Dave Winternitz and Lisa Bartlett. Grand step children, Tara Maloof, Mike Winternitz, Joel Winternitz and Adrianna Lynn Latimer. A private family funeral will be held Tuesday, November 5th, 2013. A celebration of his life will be held in Annapolis Maryland, in January 2014, further details to be announced. Memorial Contributions may be made to Hospice of the Chesapeake Foundation.