In Memoriam — Dana H. Kerrick
Dana H. Kerrick, 82, of Coppell, TX, slipped the surly bonds of Earth one final time on May 21, 2021. Dana’s contagious smile and warm handshake were well-known in the aviation world as he called on clients and made the rounds at HeliEXPO, ALEA/APSA Expo, and Rotor Safety Challenges for three decades as vice president and co-founder of International Aviation Composites, Ltd. and as a regular instructor for IA renewal seminars.
Dana’s love for aviation began as a small child; he said he knew he wanted to fly since he was 3 years old. His flying and maintenance career included both fixed-wing and rotorcraft of many types. From turning wrenches on B-52s in the Air Force in 1959 to marketing the latest high-tech composite rotor-blade repair services for 30+ years as VP of Marketing for IAC Ltd., Dana retired in 2015 after 56 experience-filled years of contributing to the aviation world.
Dana was a regular guest writer for Helicopter Maintenance Magazine and Air Beat magazine as a leading authority in helicopter blade inspection, maintenance and repair. Dana taught FAA-approved IA Renewal courses from 2001-2015. His seminars at HeliExpo, ALEA/APSA EXPO and the Rotor Safety Challenge were always well attended.
Dana’s contributions to aviation and safety were recognized many times throughout his long career, culminating in being recognized by Helicopter Association International (HAI) in 2016 with the Bell Helicopter Lifetime Achievement Award.
Dana was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He leaves behind his wife of 50 years, Paulene; four children: Jacqueline Barnes, Laurie Byrd, Susan Ragina, and Robert Kerrick; seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. He was a mentor to many in aviation and a friend to all.
In addition to flying, Dana enjoyed spending time with his family, traveling, fishing and collecting guns.
At Dana’s request, there will be no funeral. A memorial reception for friends and family will be hosted by Randy and Rita Stevens at IAC, Ltd.’s Fort Worth office on Monday, July 19. All are welcome. Cards, remembrances and messages for the family can be sent through IAC via email to rita@iac-ltd.com or mailed to IAC, Ltd., 8715 Harmon Road, Fort Worth, TX 76177. Details for the reception will be announced on IAC’s website (www.iac-ltd.com). In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to your local Salvation Army or the Bible League International.
Fly high, Dana. You will be missed.