Harry Larry Edward (CFIG) started his soaring career in Fremont California, learning his craft from the legendary Les Arnold. He started a small operation in Dyersberg, Tennessee, with an old  Sweitzer 2-22, that he and his brother Bob rebuilt.  In his travels, he flew with Jim Endebro at Calistoga Soaring. He then met Dave Williams of Vacaville Soaring and became the Chief Pilot flying with Jules Gilpatrick and Ed Skuzinski. He started his own soaring school, Big Valley Soaring after leaving Vacaville Soaring.

Larry was instrumental in training FAA glider inspectors to implement the inspection program for licensing.

During his career, he soared the Wave at Minden Nevada. He soaredTorre Pines.

His love of soaring was passed down to his son, Michael Edwards, and to countless others who climbed into the front seat of his Switzer 2-33. He had countless adventures and loved every moment of his life in the wind.

 

Harry L. Edwards CPO USN (R) will be interred in the National Cemetary Sacramento, CA (Dixon CA) on April 17, 2019. The memorial will start at 11:00 am with full military honors.

Larry is survived by his daughters, Julia Edwards Dake, Viki Edwards Short, and Kathryn St. Claire; son, Michael Allan Edwards; grandchildren, Lisa Buccella Ciarnelli, Michael Edward Buccella, Clint Howard, Cathryn Edwards, Rhett Chassereau, Walter Chassereau and Patrick Lisicki and two great-grandchildren; sister, Iris Edwards Lockerby; brother, Gene Edwards; former wife, Mary Queen Edwards, and many nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, Larry was predeceased by his beloved wife, Ann St. Claire; and his brothers, Bob and George Edwards.