Major Don Staib

Don Staib

 

Major Don Staib, loving Father, Husband, Friend, Pilot, Musician, Chef, an Artist in the way that he lived, passed away June 7, 2010, doing what he loved the most living life to the fullest riding his ATV and had an accident. For the last 14 years he has flown for American Airlines. He served 20 yrs in the US Air Force as a pilot, flying various aircraft such as T-38’s, C-130’s, H-53 Helicopters, achieving many awards for various things, he was a hero and saved many lives as a rescue operator.

 

He had many hobbies including flying hot air balloons, picking in a bluegrass band called the Fifth String, he was a great cook, a brewmeister, a teacher, a mentor, and a man of all trades. Those who crossed Don’s path received the gift of his huge bear-like heart of gold. He lived each day to make everyone happy. There are no strangers to Don. He leaves this world with no regret. The relationship he had with his wife and kids was one of a kind. He understood the urgency of life. No matter how big or small you could always count on him for anything and had a quirkiness everyone adored.

 

We will all miss him dearly, but his memory will live on in all of us. “Oh yea babe!”

 

He is survived by his father, Lt. Col. Elmer R. Staib, his sister Joy Hawkes his brother Bob Staib, his wife, Vicki, his 2 daughters, Renee and her husband Jeremiah, granddaughter Mikayla, grandson Sagan, his daughter Rachel and her husband Chuck, 2 step grandchildren, 2 step great grandchildren.

 

Services for Don will be held at Leavitt’s Mortuary 836 36th Street, Ogden, Utah, on Friday June 11, 2010 at 11 a.m. Friends and family may gather one hour prior to the services at the Mortuary.

 

Interment will be held at Leavitt’s Aultorest Memorial Park.

 

In lieu of flowers please donate to the Major Don Staib “Memorial” account at America First Credit Union.

 

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.leavittsmortuary.com

 

 

Vicki, Rachel, Renee, I wish I was there but please know my heart is with you all. I love you all. May God be with you. Know Donnie is in heaven and singing with the angels I love you all, Sue Aunt Sue

 

Sue & Joe Call (Louisville, Ky)

 

Dear Vicki and Family, May God Bless you during this most difficult time. Don will be dearly missed and eternally remembered by everyone whose life he touched. Tim & Karla

 

Tim & Karla Lynch (Astoria, NY)

 

It was hard to talk to Don and NOT smile because you could tell he always had a smile on his face! He always saw the "adventure" in any mis-adventure. AA lost a good pilot, and we all lost a good friend. My heart goes out to the family of this amazing man!

 

Stephanie (Venus, TX)

 

Dearest Vicki and all the Staib family. We are heartbroken to lose such a wonderful friend. Even though we have known Don and your family only a few short years, he became very special. We will always remember him calling every time he was in Sacramento and were lucky enough to have him for Thanksgiving one year. His passion for life was contagious and we LOVED that he loved to cook, which is one of our favorite things to do. It was always a contest whose grilling would "rule." We will remember to toast the sunset, toast the good food and toast our friend Don Staib. With sadness for your great loss (and ours), we send our love. Vicki 2 and Jarry

 

Jarry and Vicki Reece (Granite Bay, CA)

 

Don was the best brother a sister could ever want. 24-7 he was available to help me with any and every problem. I can honestly say that I never ever heard him say a bad word about anyone. Sorely missed - never forgotten. Joy

 

Joy Hawkes (Louisville, Ky)

 

I didn't have the pleasure of meeting Don but I'm so blessed to have his daughter Rachel as a friend. You can tell what a wonderful man he was by knowing his wonderful family. I love you girl! Rest in Peace Love Kim

 

Kim Paul (NORTH OGDEN, UT)

 

Steve and I both knew Don - he was such a wonderful person AND personality. Always smiling and very outgoing and certainly earned his nickname of Staibmart - he always had something going on. I was in the 6514th with him and had the opportunity to experience his terrific flying skills a few times. Our thoughts are with you, Vickie and family. He was definitely proud of you all.

 

Steve and Sherry Shadday (Layton, )

 

Dear Vicki, I met Don through Henry Huggins, back when Don was flying T-38s. When I think back over the events of my life, some of the most enjoyable memories include Don. To this day, every time I think of Don I get a huge smile on my face. Today the smile is accompanied by tears. He was a fine man and he will be sorely missed by all of humanity. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.

 

Jim Kennedy (San Antonio, Texas)

 

Vicky, Rachel, Renea, Chuck, and the Staib and extended Family's, We will attend Don’s service as we offer our support and sincerest condolences. Don will be missed but fond memories of him will continue forever. We wish we could have spent more time with Don and are thankful for the time we had with him. Clark Sandra and Elizabeth Swanson

 

Swanson Family (Fruit Heights, Utah)

 

Dear Vicki and family.I knew Don for many years in the squadron.He was always the most cheerful person during those'early morning' shows. A great pilot and individual.

 

Carl Goetzinger (Park City, Utah)

 

Dear Vicki, Rachel, Renea and extended family members. You are all in our thoughts and prayers at this time of loss. As anyone will tell you who has spent time growing up with, working with, playing music with, or being friends with_(which I'm proud to say I enjoyed all these with Don)- Don leaves part of himself with each person. Know that he lives on in all of us touched by him. Wishing you God's Peace. Wayne and Delia

 

Wayne and Delia Gibbs (Louisville, Ky)

 

My deepest sympathy to Don's entire family. Don and I grew up as neighbors, schoolmates, and teammates. He has always enjoyed life and leaves many great memories for everyone who met him. Don always looked for the next challenge with great enthusiasm. He will be dearly missed. I will always cherish our friendship.

 

Bill Jarboe (Taylorsville, KY)

 

This is very difficult....yet we know he's with Jesus! I'm sure he and Stetson are starting a Chili Cookoff or Brisket-off! And if God has a computer, I'm sure Don has replaced the motherboard! I was blessed, you were all so very blessed to have him and he loved you more than you can words can ever describe! When we lean on Jesus, we can get through hard times. Love you, Tess

 

Tess Taft Cowan (Mesa, AZ)

 

Vicki, I know there's nothing anyone can say to ease the pain. A huge personality like Donny leaves a great hole in the lives of those who knew him and loved him. He lived life without compromise, and got so much more out of it than most people ever do. He's the kind of fellow we can never forget. Linda and I send our sympathy and respect to you and all the family.

 

David Hawpe (Louisville, Ky.)

 

As a Captain for American Airlines I had the honor and the privilege of flying with Don. He was by far one of my favorite people to fly with. On our trips he would break out his computer and show me pictures of his life and family. Let there be no doubt how proud he was of and how much he loved his family. He will be missed by all of us at American Airlines. My thoughts and prayers are with you all!!

 

Grant Metsger (granbury, tx)

 

You are all in our thoughts and prayers at this time of your loss. Colleen, Allan, & Judy

 

Allan & Colleen Netzer;Judy Stewart (Eden,, Utah)

 

I remember Don (Major Staib) through the 6514th Test Squadron, I didn't know him well but well enough to know that he was such a delightful person and always had a smile on his face with a happy go lucky personality, my heart goes out to his family.

 

Chris Odegard (Hooper, UT, )

 

Staib Family: Our sincerest condolences to you all. It was a great privilege to work with Don at Hill AFB and to enjoy the fun times with the families. We had a wonderful bunch of people in the Test Group and Don was definitely one of them. He had friends wherever he went. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Terry and Jane Dielman

 

Terry and Jane Dielman (Port Orchard, Wa)

 

To a family who we consider family,

 

We are so very sorry for your loss of such an amazing person. We are so lucky to have had the chance to spend time with Don. He always had a smile on his face and was the most accepting man. From the time I met him as a teenager, I never felt like I needed to pretend I was someone else. Sometimes it's hard to be yourself around parents as a teenager. :) But, I have always felt right at home around Vicki and Don. Thank you for giving me the chance to learn from you about how we aspire to live out our life and thanks for teaching me how to brew a delicious beer! We will miss you but think of you often! Love, Kelly, Jeff, and Spencer

 

Kelly, Jeff, and Spencer (Layton, UT)

 

Renee,

 

I am so very sorry to hear about your Dad. RIP and God Bless.

 

Jim Hultz (Clearfield, Utah)

 

Vicki, Rachel & Renee

 

We were absolutely shocked to hear about Don. We will always remember him as a great officer, great musician and more importantly, as a great friend. Please accept our sincerest condolances.

 

Bill & Anne Plutt

 

Bill & Anne Plutt (Clarkesville, GA)

 

We are so sorry to hear about Donny, you are in our thoughts and prayers. We will always fondly remember him for his personality, energy and his great singing. You guys sang to us for our first dance as husband and wife, it is something we will always remember and treasure.

 

Brett & Lisa Swain (Las Vegas, nv)

 

Vicki and family I was very sorry to hear of Don's death. My time, at work and play, with both of you in HI is a fond memory that I cherish. Don was a professional officer and fine gentleman. I still play your bluegrass LP and smile remembering "Redhead Mother" booming from the Hickam club stage. We will all miss Don but enjoy remembering our association with him. God Bless. Ray and Ellen Dunn

 

Ray Dunn (Wynantskill, NY)

 

Dear Vicki and family, Don was a great pilot and individual. I had the privilege of flying with him during his time at the squadron. He will be missed by all.

 

Michael Toppin (Des Moines, IA)

 

Dear Staib family, We are so sorry to hear about Don. We were stationed with him both in Hawaii and at Hill. He was a great musician, pilot, and officer. He will be missed. Glen and Janis Apgar

 

Glen and Janis Apgar (Sandy, UT)

 

Vicki, You and your family are in my heart, my thoughts and my prayers. Don will be missed by many. I am grateful for the memories of musical parties at your house and the opportunity to work with him from Clover Control while he flew missions on the Utah Test and Training Range. I am saddened and stunned by this loss.

 

Cecilia Nackowski (Ogden, UT, )

 

Vicki and family,

 

This is a great sadness. Don and I only got to fly desks together but, like you, we understand that Don flies higher than ever now - right at the side of the Lord. In the days ahead we pray that knowledge - and the promise of sure reunion, in Christ - will comfort and guide you. We'll go on the path with you. God Bless You.

 

Tim and Sheila Kunzweiler (Dayton, OH)

 

Staib family,

 

We we so truly blessed to have know Don. He was such a loving soul and our heart our filled with sadness. We will alway remember him as a great friend and a wonderful man. May god bless you and help comfort you during this tough time.

 

Ben & Tiffany Leffke (Denton, TX , )

 

Vicki and girls--We're so sorry to hear about Don. Although I've only seen him once or twice since pilot training, he was always a bright spot to talk about when thinking about you guys and the Dyes and Reese AFB. We wish you the very best. Matt and Kathy Skundrick

 

The Skundrick's (Vancouver,, wa)

 

Dear Vicki, I am so sorry. I heard of the news late and will not be able to make the service. Please know that I grieve along with you, your family and Don's many friends. I am blessed and grateful to have known him and to have taught him the nuances of flying the C-130. We had a lot of fun together flying in Europe. Those are memories that will be with me for the rest of my life. I will surely miss him. I know you are a spiritual family. God has given you all the strength to get through this truly difficult time, but know that Don's spirit, and our memories of his love, humor, talent and generosity will live on forever. God bless you, all. Pat Graham "C-130man" (Don's nickname for me!!)

 

Patrick Graham (New River,, AZ)

 

Vicki, It was a shock to hear of Don's passing, especially knowing how it would affect you. I didn't know Don very well, but certainly I could tell that you two had a special connection. Let me express my heartfelt condolences. May the Lord console you during these difficult times with the knowledge that you can be with Don in the eternities. Sincerely, Randy Winmill

 

Randy Winmill (Layton, Utah)

 

Dear Vicki and Family, I was shocked to hear of Donnie's passing. I met him once through his nephew when he came in town and played banjo with the Corn Brothers. It was a great night. I could tell that every night was a great night for Donnie and everyone around him. Anyone who ever met him will be touched by a man who seemed larger than life itself. I also heard stories about him from his sister-in-law, Edna, always with a grin and a laugh. My sincerest condolences are with you all. May we all remember to live life to the fullest as Donnie did. My heart is with all of you.

 

Barbara Thomas (Louisville, Kentucky)

 

Dear Vicki and family: I can not express how saddened I am to hear of Don's passing. I just found out this morning. I can picture Don having a great time at whatever he was doing. I hope I can be as lucky, to pass that way. That does not make it easier for those of us who will miss him! Please know that we miss the great years we had in your company. We will pray for you and your family and mourn the loss of one great man.

 

Scott Eberhart (Granbury, Tx)

 

Dear Vickie and all the Staib family, I have been a friend of Don's since 1997 when I met him online through my sister, Kathy Evers. Even though I don't know you, I feel like I do because of all the pictures and stories Don has communicated. He was truly in love with his his family, music, cooking (I have several recipes) and life in general. He was on my to-do list to write to as he wanted advice for a friend who wanted to get into sailing and cruising. He was always there when I had questions about how to use the computer and was such a help in teaching me the online world! I will sadly miss him.

 

Linda Knowles (Bristol, RI)

 

Vicki and Family, We are very sorry. Don is such a great person. We are going to miss his wit. We know he is in Heaven helping God learn the computer or the banjo. Please know that we are thinking and praying for you all. Love, Cynthia and Yvonne

 

Cynthia Staib Brown and Yvonne Staib (Louisville ky, )

 

Sorry to see another talented and fine member of the Staib family go. A talented and fun loving man.

 

Charles Peterson Jr (Aurora , Il)

 

We are so sorry to hear of Don's passing. We have all been blessed to have known him and his flying talents and his sense of humor. He will forever be that great big smile in the sky.

 

Todd and Beth St. Thomas (Park City, UT)

 

Dear Vicki and girls, We are so sorry for you loss and know that Don will be close to you watching over you in the future. If we can do anything please let us know, we are building a home behind your home in the Greyhawk Estates now and can come and shovel snow or help out as you need. Please call on us. 8017252304

 

The Traum Family

 

Laura and Joe Traum (Layton, UT)

 

I'm so sorry for the passing of Don. Last month, he was up visiting Turk and Kathy and we got together for dinner. Don cooked us a wonderful meal and filmed the entire process on his little camera. He will be missed by all.

 

Gary J Barth (Federal Way, WA)

 

Dear Staib Family, I was greatly sadden to learn of Don's accident. We just flew together on a trip ending 6-3. He never ceased to amaze me with his abilities and talents. I know he will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure to meet or know him. If you would more information on our trip together please contact me any time.

 

Captain Gary Absher (Fayetteville, AR)

 

Vicki and Family,

 

As I look at all the tributes to Don from all over the states I am humbled by what I have read. I had the good fortune to work next to Don, Captain Bob, Major J.C. Ritchie, Jim Banas and a few others in the Safety Office there at the Utah Test and Training Range. My children and wife flew with Don on one of his balloon trips over the Rockies and my kids help set up and put the balloon away after the trip. People were right about Don, he was "one of a kind" but always willing to help others. May God give you the love and support you need to fill this void in your life. If, as others have said, I can do anything for you, PLEASE feel free to email Lana and or myself and we'll do our best to support you and the family. God loves all of you and so do we.........Love Russ and Lana Carnes

 

Russ Carnes (Andover, OH)

 

I will miss you very much

 

your friend allways

 

Tom

 

Tom (Denton, Tx)

 

The officers club, a house picnic, generals parties, even giging in some strange places. I will never forget your enthusiasm for bluegrass you had Don!!! I was more like a rebel bluegrasser, myself playing constantly but loved to hear your pickin Don!!! I was there for you when you needed a mandolin player, I was just talking to you a few weeks ago about my new F9 Gibson, and you said no F5. and I said no F9 Gibson they made a new model called the F9 and iI bought one. I will miss you Don very much, very much! Your mandolin music buddy Gerry Larribas. Lov you and your family so much!!!

 

Gerry Larribas (Albuqueruqe, NM)

 

What a wonderful life. What a great legacy he left. Wonderful to know anyone..You Rachel...that a great man like this has influenced. Rachel, my heart goes out to you and your family. Your dad will always be appreciated in my home...even though I never met him...I know you and you are lovely. God bless you in this time and always

 

Stephanie McKee (Ogden, Utqq)

 

Kat and family, I am so sorry to hear about Don's death. He has always been a close friend who would call me from what ever airport he was at. He was one of the best helecopter pilots that I ever had the honor of serving with. We will all miss his banjo playing and his fun spirit.. If you ever need help from me don't hesitate to give me a call or drop me an e-mail. your friend Dan Wilder (801) 985-3183

 

Dan Wilder (Roy, Ut)

 

Vicky and Family, I am sorry to hear about Don's passing. My prayers are with and for all of you. Major Staib was an awesome man and a great friend. I will really miss him and that smile that lit up the world. GOD Bless you all and give peace.

 

Anthony Edith

 

Anthony Edith (Shiloh, IL, )

 

Vicky, I am sorry and have to appologize I started my message this morning addressed to Kat because I was talking to Sherry Shadday about who might have an e-mail to contact you with and she said Kat Lee would and my mind just wrote her name down. I and sorry please accept my sincerest condolances.

 

Dan Wilder (Roy, Utah)

 

Rachel and family, I am sorry to hear of your loss. I am a former Air Force pilot (Hill AFB) and airline pilot (Pan Am and American), and although we had never met, Don sounds like just my kind of guy, a true renaissance man, worthy of emulation. I'm sure he'll be missed by all who knew and loved him, and my sympathies go out to all who did.

 

George Yazejian (Layton, UT)

 

Donnie and I went from 1st through 12th grade together and played football together too. He was a memorable, smart, really nice guy. We stayed in touch and from time to time exchanged christmas cards. I will remember him always as an irreplacable friend. You have my deepest sympathy.

 

bob farmer (louisville, kentucky, )

 

My heart has been heavy since I heard this tragic news. But Don wouldn't want any of us moping around with heavy hearts -- he'd find a way to snap us out of it. What I recall most about Don is that HUGE,almost mischievous smile. I met him with QQ/RenoAir and he shared beautiful photos of our airline over the Sierras, which I made into luggage tags for myself and co-workers. Now I treasure that photo even more! Over the years, I'd occasionally be on an AA flight and hear the p.a. that Don Staib was the first officer and it would just make me grin...and ALWAYS when deplaning I'd think of some way to harass him or silly comment to make to try to get his goat, but that GENTLEman always seemed to get the last laugh one way or another. I'll miss bumping into my buddy. I still can't come to grips with his unexpected departure; never understand or accept why the brightest and best are taken far before their time. Such a good soul, with a zest for life and a twinkle in his eye. Truly one of my favorite people and that's without really having known him all that well. I hope those of you who were closest to him are finding more peace day by day. God bless you all.

 

Ellen Johansen (Santa Clara, CA)

 

Dear Staib Family and Friends, It with sadness and a sense of responsibility that I convey a few thoughts about our friend, Don, who passed away recently. I am the owner of Prime Systems Computers in Kaysville, Utah. For the longest time Don was one was of those "special" customers who graced our store. His visits to see us were not routine by any means. He was our friend and one of the best allies an establishment like ours could have. I don't know how many people he referred us to, but it was dozens I am sure. He was so kind to explain to others the kinds of experiences he enjoyed here. He loved technology and if wasn't trying to upgrade something for him, he was helping someone else. We will miss the referrals, but I can tell you what I will miss the most. We will miss Don!!!!!! He was a jewel of human being and a true friend. Over the years he would stop by my office and relate experiences from the past or something that was going on currently. I would love to stop what I was doing and hear from him. I will miss his smile and optimistic view on life. It is really hard to face the fact he is gone. But you know something? I have a feeling he is spreading good cheer and joy with those he mingles with today. Don, we will miss you. To his family I want you to honestly know we are grateful you SHARED him with us. We are better for it. Keith Duncan Prime Systems

 

Keith Duncan (Kaysville, Utah)

 

Wow. A sad day indeed for you, his family. Haven't seen Don since college and it is great to see that he made the most of his life and brought happiness to his family. Tailwinds, Don!

 

Bill Elder (Louisville, KY)

 

Vicky, We parted ways after college. To hear of this saddened me but Don always had a zest for living that was infectious. His loss will be felt by any he touched in life.

 

Bill Gadberry (Everett, WA)

 

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  • Home:
  • Death Date: June 7, 2010
  • Birthdate: December 2, 1950
  • Place Of Birth:
  • Service: June 11, 2010 at 11a.m.
  • Location: Leavitt's Mortuary 836 36th Street Ogden Utah

 

 

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