1926 – 2008

Long time Albuquerque Soaring Club member Bob Knight passed away on October 27, 2008 at the age of 81. Bob was a very dedicated member of the Albuquerque Soaring Club and over many years supported the club in numerous volunteer and elected positions.

Bob’s flying career started at Capital Airlines which in 1961 became a part of United Airlines. Bob later retired from United Airlines and he then moved the family to Albuquerque in 1973.

In the late 80’s Bob got interested in soaring and in short order earned his soaring license. Bob was an excellent pilot and in the early 90’s became a partner with Buzz Averill in a DG-600. Bob and Buzz really enjoyed the DG and they both put a lot of X-C miles on the ship out of Moriarty. They also took 1BA to many outstanding SW soaring locations including: Taos, Durango, Alamogordo and Springerville, AZ. I first met Bob in 1993 and we soon became partners in our hangar which was built in 1996. It became “home” for his DG-600.

In 1999 Bob earned both his FAI Gold Badge # 2247 and he also earned his Goal Diamond. He continued to fly his ship until he decided to retire from soaring in 2006. Bob then set his sights on restoring a 1932 Ford 2-door coupe. It took awhile but the job was done and this beautiful classic car made it to several auto shows in the West. We all had the chance to see it at Moriarty earlier this year and it was really a beautiful vehicle!

During Bob’s many years in the club, he helped out in many varying positions. These positions included Chief of Ops (for 4 years), Treasurer (2 years) and Director at Large. He also helped out in ops training and until very recently, Bob continued to support the club as he always kept the clubhouse soda machine stocked! In addition, Bob also worked on supporting the SSA Conventions held in Albuquerque in 1991 and in 2000.

Bob also served his country in the US Army from Feb of 1944 to Dec of 1946. His Army service included duty as a radioman and vehicle mechanic and also included serving overseas in the Philippines.

With Bob’s passing we have lost another dedicated member of the ASC family. He is survived by his daughter, Kathy Hart, his son, Randy Knight and their families.

Bob was a great friend and partner and he will be sorely missed……

Renny Rozzoni