Stuart Neil Mitts

Stu bravely battled a long illness with grace and quiet strength.

Stu was born on September 22, 1936, in Jersey City, New Jersey, to Neil and Mildred Mitts, and was raised in Buffalo, New York. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Buffalo, where he also joined the ROTC.

From an early age, Stu knew he wanted to fly airplanes. He joined the United States Air Force, patrolling the Atlantic coast during the Cuban Missile Crisis and later serving in Vietnam. Upon his return, he went to work for IBM. Missing aviation, he was hired by United Airlines in 1967.

Stu flew professionally for United Airlines for 33 years, concluding his career as a Captain on the Boeing 757 and 767. In his final years, he also served as a line check airman, training new captains during their initial operating experience. During his aviation career, he received two Air Medals. Among more than 1,800 United Airlines pilots, Stu was honored at O’Hare International Airport as United’s Pilot of the Month—an honor he received without knowing his name had been submitted, or by whom.

After retiring as a Captain, Stu and his wife moved to Hawaii, where he continued working in aviation as a flight engineer. He retired fully in June of 1998.

Stu had many passions. He enjoyed cooking and studied culinary arts at the Culinary School of the Pacific. He loved piloting his own vintage airplane and sailing his 35-foot C&C sailboat. A dedicated sailor, he competed in the Chicago to Mackinac Race three times.

Stu is survived by his wife of 37 years, Christine Mitts; his brother, Craig Mitts; his daughters, Diane Huff and Gretchen Solberg, and their spouses, John and Mark; his nephew, Christopher Mitts; his niece, Chelsea Mitts; and Russell Mitts. He also leaves behind four granddaughters: Hannah Kupchella-Huff, Abigail Huff, Elaina Solberg, and Anna Solberg.

Stu will be cremated and laid to rest at Sarasota National Cemetery, honoring his service to his country.