Leonard Alan Lind
1932 - 2020
Obituary
We sadly announce the passing of Leonard Alan Lind on October 4, 2020 after a brief illness.
Alan was born in Avola British Columbia and grew up in the Slocan Valley, attending elementary and high school in Silverton and New Denver. After attending the University of British Columbia, Alan pursued his dream of a career in aviation. To earn his wings, Alan spent a year at CFB Trenton, and a further period of NATO pilot training in Claresholm Alberta. He also met Anne at Claresholm, and the two were married in the early 60s. Alan was proud of his military career, which culminated in attaining the rank of Flying Officer in the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). He served his country as both a pilot and instructor pilot before pursuing a career in commercial aviation.
In the mid 60s, Alan and Anne moved to the United States where Alan accepted a position as pilot with United Airlines. Alan was a gifted pilot, and he had a very successful career with United until the late 90s, when he retired.
Alan was also a gifted athlete, excelling at hockey, baseball and golf, among other sports. Later in life he became an avid runner and tennis player. Throughout his life he was a true sportsman and an advocate for respect, fair play and consideration of others.
Alan continued with his flying passion in retirement, flying his own Piper Seneca aircraft whenever he could. He was a true “man in motion” spending time travelling between his beloved Slocan Valley, his Federal Way home (located on a golf course), and his Honolulu condo where he was a fixture at the Kapiolani Park tennis courts and local golf courses. He had many friends at all three locations and enjoyed spending time with all of them. Alan travelled extensively throughout his life and made friends wherever he went.
Alan was a reserved man with a sharp wit, generous spirit and a wonderful low-key sense of humor. There was a twinkle in his eye when this “Lone Wolf” smiled and laughed.
He was predeceased by his wife Anne, father Peter Lind, mother Lois Lind, sisters Rita Morrison and Patricia Findley, and brother Albert Lind. Alan is survived by his brother-in-law Barry Morrison and nieces and nephews located throughout the Province of British Columbia. Alan will be missed by his entire extended family and the many close friends he made on his travels around the world.
I knew him only briefly, but found him to be quietly kind. He led a full life, and I’m glad to have had the chance to meet him. My condolences to his family and friends.
Michelle Bertucci