Remembering my friend and mentor - Deke
Deke died on January 8th 2004 at 10:45am when the Quicksilver GT500 he was flying crashed near Highway 156 just East of Hollister Ca.
DIECK, William F. 'Deke' -- Touched many lives with his warmth, his
energy, and his passion for life. He died suddenly January 8, 2004, at
the age of 61 while giving a flying lesson near the Hollister Airport.
Deke was born in Peoria, Illinois on August 20, 1942, the oldest of six
children. His passion and dreams for flying began at an early age. Eager
to learn to fly, he entered the United States Air Force after graduating
from high school. His accomplishments in the Air Force led him to a
career in electronics. Several years later, Deke became a licensed
general aviation pilot and later a flight instructor. He was an active
member of numerous aviation associations: USUA (United States Ultralight
Association) in both Virginia and California; a member of the EAA
(Experimental Aircraft Association); AOPA (Aircraft Owners and Pilots
Association); and the Hollister Airmen's Association. Deke was a
supporter and contributor to several different groups within the EAA,
Experimenters, Homebuilders, Antiques, and was a 'Young Eagle Flight
Leader' introducing children (age 6 - 18) to the experience of flight
for the very first time. Following a long career in computer electronics
with Amdahl Corporation, Deke was appointed Executive Director of the
Wings of History Museum in San Martin, California, leading the
preservation of aviation history and providing leadership and
inspiration to young children exploring flight. Deke was the beloved
husband of Laurie Dineen Dieck, loving father of William 'Billy' Dieck
and Brett Michael Dieck; caring step-father to Lise Dineen McCarthy,
Michael Dineen, and Amy Dineen; and devoted grandfather to 7
grandchildren. He had 5 siblings, brother Michael John Dieck and sisters
Marilyn Betterton, Susanne Robb, and Elizabeth 'Betty' Mitchell.
Preceded in death by his parents William and Josephine Marie Dieck and
youngest sister, Leila D. Pettigrew. Deke's final resting place will be
in San Jose, California.
Deke, Rusty, and John with GT500
Deke, Bob, and Rusty at Hollister (with MXII in background)
Deke explains Weight and Balance at club meeting
Deke, George, and Don at club meeting
Rusty and Deke
