1903-1995 |
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Sadly we report Foster's passing at age 92 July 18, 1995. Preceeded in death by his son Bruce Albert Lane, he is survived by his wife
Ruth E. Lane, daughter Donna Lane Earl, and four grandchildren Foster was born the year of the Wright Brothers' first flight. During his long career he was flight instructor, aerobatic pilot, test pilot and fixed base operator, and encouraged aircraft designers, Knight Culver, Al Mooney, Charles Meyers and C. G. Taylor In 1935, recognizing the potential of Columbus, Ohio, he and Mrs. Lane opened the Port Columbus Flying School, which evolved into the Lane Aviation Corporation, which today is a 112 employee business. During WW II he operated a Navy Primary Flying School, |
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training more than a thousand pilots. He was a life member of the Early Birds serving as governor for several years. He was especially devoted to the Early Birds, and once when membership was falling, in less than six months sponsored 27 new associates which served to stimulate others to action and increase enrollment to an all time high. He was one of the earliest members and former president of the OX5 Aviation Pioneers, and was inducted into the Ohio Aviation Hall of Fame. He was founder of and major fund raiser and contributor to the Ohio History of Flight Museum at Port Columbus, which is dedicated to preserving and promoting the role Ohio played in early aviation. His employees say, "He was not your typical boss. He was the nicest person, so down-to-earth policy, he welcomed young people and others to talk aviation. He had a positive outlook on life, "I really don't like looking into the past. It is final so can't be changed. The beginning of aviation was exciting, but today it is still the great adventure. I look forward to Monday mornings". In 1978 he said, "Age doesn't mean a thing. I expect to be flying at 90. That's my goal." He succeeded since he held a current pilot license until the spring of 1994. His gentle humor and energetic spirit will be missed by the multitude of people whose lives he touched. Your secretary, D "Andy" Anderson, is included. Newsletter of the Early Birds of Aviation October, 1995 by D. "Andy" Anderson. |
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