I knew Gene when we were flying with the Vultures Soaring Club at Almont Mi and later Marlette MI.

I always enjoyed his company and he was a very generous man. When our club lost the use of a member's tow plane Gene went out and bought a Pawnee which he promptly painted bright Orange. He also went to get tailwheel time so that he could fly it for the benefit of club members and later in Region 6 North contests

He also went to England and bought an IAR Brasov IS-29 which at the time I thought was an odd choice. He later traded up for an SZD-55 (AG), the same model as my glider, which we then flew at Ionia until I left the area.

Sad news... but fond memories.

Bob 7U

On Monday, July 10, 2017 at 11:59:20 AM UTC-4, Charlie Papa wrote:
On Monday, 10 July 2017 08:25:18 UTC-4, Robert Fidler wrote:
Gene Rinke has passed away after a year-long fight with brain cancer. I visited him a week ago and he remained in good spirits even though he was aware his time was near. Gene was a great friend, an outstanding individual and a great soaring pilot. I flew with him for almost 20 years on countless cross-country flights in Michigan and Florida. The funeral will be private. A Memorial service is being planned by the family and will be announced.
Bob Fidler

That is sad news indeed! I followed Gene around central Florida for many seasons. He was the most practical guy, - maybe it comes from being a farmer. I remember his CG calculation solution. Make a paint stirrer into a gauge for when the elevator is in perfect alignment with the Horizontal Stab by putting the padded end ion the instrument panel, and the PTT into a notch cut in the stick. Battens around the elevator held it in place for Gene to measure where to put the notch. Then adjust the ballast until the glider held 70 knots with the PTT in the notch. Ingenious.

I haven't seen Gene for several years, but am saddened to know I never will again.

CP