Angel Flight West was built on relationships, and that foundation is what has kept our passengers at the heart of our mission for more than forty years. When our volunteer pilots sign up to donate a flight, they aren’t only signing up to experience the joy of flying — they’re signing up to invest their time and energy in another person, a new friend.
Our passenger Elliot was one of those friends, both to volunteers and staff. After his first gifted flight in 2021, he went on to fly with Angel Flight West 71 more times to access his care at Huntsman Cancer Institute.
After a courageous battle with cancer, Elliot passed away on November 10, 2023.
It’s our honor to share some of the kind words from our volunteer pilots as they remember their passenger, and friend, Elliot:
Elliott was a kind and gentle man. – Hans Fuegi
I thoroughly enjoyed flying with Elliot. He was always so grateful and positive and we had very thoughtful conversations. The first time we met, it felt like we had been friends for years. He will be missed. Rest in peace, Elliot. – Lou Rossi
The world will miss your presence, my friend! Many trips together — please watch over us aviators! -Kent Mazzia
I’m very sorry to hear about Elliot’s passing. He was my last Angel Flight (I sold my plane soon after) and was a joy to be with, cheerful, appreciative and just a lovely person. My thoughts go out to his family and friends and all the Angel Flight volunteers who were fortunate enough to know him. – Michael Darder
Elliot was a pleasure to have as a passenger, appreciative and an interesting man to talk with during the flight. Of course, I’m sorry I didn’t pick up one more flight with him. I thought about it but didn’t. There’s a lesson. – Lee Gerstein
We thank our volunteers for giving Elliot the gift of more time with his family and friends, and we express our deepest sympathies to all who knew and loved him. Click here to read Elliot’s obituary.
