Alex was a great father figure to my sister and I. I have so many great memories with Alex and Gail. Nothing will ever replace his funny character. You never knew what Alex would come up with like the time Alex had made us aluminum foil hats to wear after watching a sci-fi movie. As I grew older Alex never did, he was always a kid and making sure everyone enjoyed his company with everything he did.

 I still remember Alex and Gail coming to one of my football games in high school and looking up in the stands and seeing signs they had made. I was so proud to see them there, it was the only time I ever scored any points being on defense. There is no one that will ever replace him in our life, we can enjoy the great times we've shared together. He sure will be missed.

We first got to know Alex in the year 2000 in Israel. He made Angela's day when she put on the cardboard Burger King hat. He bowed to her and called her Princess Yalla, a name that stuck throughout the trip and for some, far beyond the trip. Then he gave her a birthday gift in a Tiffany box. It was a toy watch, probably from Burger King.
Alex always knew how to make a child feel good. He was the only one I knew who would let children draw all over his face and head with magic markers and then head to Wal-mart shopping. 
Alex was an original and we all miss him terribly.

Freshman Welcome Dance Mater Dei High School 1966.  I was with a couple girlfriends at our first high school dance.  The band was live and we were dancing in place.  Alex started to walk toward us and then i knew he was going to make my day he asked me to dance and i turned to my friends and said see you later.  The look on their faces! .. i did not reveal that Alex and I were "almost" related.  Linda Alvarez Lopez

Dear Gail, 

One of my best memories of Alex was our trip to Germantown the month before Jim and I got married. I have lots of memories of when we were kids, of course, and then seeing what a great son he was as an adult. It was impossible to impress my mom after all the ways in which you and Alex spoiled my mom! We all have memories of how Alex spoiled our children as well!

During our visit I asked Alex to walk me down the aisle. Of course, he said,"oh, you mean I get to give you away? For good?" He promised not to tell Jim any stories about me so Jim would not ask for his ring back! While I was dating I admired the marriage that Alex and Gail had created. Gail shared with me that Alex would ask her "Are you happy? Because if you are not, I am not doing my job!" He took his marriage seriously and everyday made efforts to keep his bride happy. He put God first in his marriage and together they  created a beautiful love story. They were always fun to be around. Gail took such good care of him during all of his medical situations. Taking care of someone with an LVAD is a challenging adventure. His quality of life was positively affected by her efforts. They were a great team. It's so wonder she misses him so dearly.
      
During our trip Alex had arranged for us to bike through the forests of Tennesee and had bikes for us to ride (his only had 10 miles on it!) and loaded them up for us on the Lexus. We had a really fun visit with them. I always love being with my Memphis sisters and hearing them share their funny stories. One of my favorites is Marlene's story about running into Alex before he met Gail and asking him about his license plate which read V1VR2. Another is how he told Gail he was Indian and from the "party tribe". I'm surprised she had the nerve to travel to California and meet the "tribe". 
     
I miss my brother but "connect" with him by playing his favorite music - music that we grew up - Esquivel, Rene Touzet, Mariachi Vargas, Chicago, and the Moody Blues - but I cry every time I play "Thank you for giving to the Lord". It reminds me of his purpose for life - how he touched so many people and his "kids". I love that picture of him when he let the kids paint his face! In some ways he never really grew up and that's why everyone loved him. 
       
I miss my little brother but his humor and values live on in our hearts and in our family. Maybe he can play the piano now.

Gail,
Alex was just a great example to Jake of how to be gracious in the midst of a storm. He was so good to Jake and Jake adored him!  He prayed for him every night before he went to bed and he loved praying with him on Sundays.  He was a fun, loving and caring man who inspired Jake to want to be like him!  We will miss him greatly!  We love you!!

Dear Gail, 

You had asked for our thoughts about Alex a few weeks ago and I apologize for not sending this to you sooner.  Here are my most enduring memories of a great guy, your fine husband, Alex Duron. 

Alex and I first met about January,1987, when we started DC-10 Flight Engineer upgrade training at Federal Express.  The most physical memory of him that I retain to this day was his remarkable handshake.  Alex had the most encompassing, warm, sincere handshake of anyone I have ever known.  His hands were large and they were a bit soft, and when the handshake grips happened, it was like putting on a comfortable pair of mittens...the handshake exuded warmth and camaraderie, trust and peace.  It was unforgettable and I have found myself thinking of that first whenever I think of him.  The Handshake.  I'll never forget it.

His sense of humor and self-deprecation was very endearing.  In one of our first DC-10 Flight Engineer classes, Dave Booth the instructor and a really good guy, went around the room and had us introduce ourselves with our backgrounds and how we got to Fed Ex.  We were all fairly serious and brief until Alex's introduction.  When Alex had his turn, in his easy, warm and bashful way, he told about how he grew up on the West Coast and built his flight time as a civilian pilot.  It was apparent that he seemed to have a Native American heritage and when Alex finished his introduction, Instructor Dave asked him if he had an Indian background. Alex kind of looked a little sheepish and responded "Yes".  So Dave asked him something like, "Really?  What tribe?", to which Alex chuckled the way he did and responded, "The Party Tribe".  We all about fell out of our chairs laughing...it was the perfect ice-breaker.  The class didn't settle down for about ten full minutes and it really set the tone for the rest for that training.  We had a very good class and we all worked well together, all because of Alex and his sense of humor.  The Sense of Humor.  I'll never forget it.

He was always thoughtful and considerate and a promoter of all things related to flying.  One day he came by the house when my three kids were young.  Alex took a liking to them but seemed to take interest in my oldest son, Andrew.  Alex had brought over a huge styrofoam glider for him, bigger than Andrew as a matter of fact, and took great joy in watching him try to throw it.  We spent about thirty minutes in the yard tossing the plane around and Andrew had it for a long time before it wore out.  He brought a couple of toys for our other two kids so they wouldn't feel left out, but he really enjoyed bringing the airplane.  His Generosity.  I'll never forget it.

On a Sunday in Novermber, 1994, Thanksgiving weekend, our property was leveled by a tornado in Germantown, TN.  We had recently converted an old shop into a house and were living in it while we built a new place where the old house had been.  Fortunately, we had just left home with the kids to go shopping for a Christmas Tree when the unannounced storm ripped through, so none of us were hurt.  And amazingly, the "little house" where we were living was spared, with only minor damage.  We lost two older cars and the new house was leveled to the slab.  Thirty very mature and old trees of various varieties were lost, snapped about 20 feet from the ground or uprooted completely.  Most of our things had been stored in moving boxes in a garage section that we saved from the demolition of the old house, and that now building was gone too.  Early the next morning, we were greeted by the sight of a couple of friends carefully navigating their way through the debris field to the little house.  One of them was Alex, who had come to help us sift through the destruction and recover whatever we could.  He had brought some sandwiches for us.  It was heartwarming and comforting to have him there as we tried to put our place back together, and I'll never forget his smile, comforting words and, of course, his warm handshake.  He worked in the cold with us all that day and in the next few days.  A couple of months later, we acknowledged the help of Alex, Gail and the other helpers with our Thank You Dinner at  a local restaurant.   His Kindness.  We'll never forget it.  

One day I was out working in my front yard and Alex drove up in his new Ford Mustang.  He was really proud of that car and I'll never forget his smile as he looked it over and described it to me.  He stayed for about thirty minutes, a welcome break for me, and I was sorry to see him have to leave.  As he was leaving I was wishing we were neighbors.  His Camaraderie.  I'll never forget it.

Alex called one day and wanted to know if we could go flying in a Cessna 172 that I have.  He had been on medical leave from Fed Ex due to some issues with his hip and leg.  He wanted to fly over and take some aerial photos of a piece of property that he and Gail owned out in the county.  My youngest son, Colin, was working on his flying credentials at that time and so I thought it would also be a great opportunity for Colin to get some instruction and guidance from Alex.  We flew around for a while after Alex finished taking pictures, and Colin received some helpful instruction from him.  Later on, Alex became a strong and vocal advocate for Colin as he endeavored to join Fed Ex as a pilot.  Ultimately, he was hired at United Airlines instead, but Alex never missed an opportunity to recommend Colin to Fed Ex.  His Concern And Advocacy.  I'll never gorget it.


On the day of my retirement, I was elated to see Alex in the audience with my family at the Falcon Building.  At the time, he was working with ALPA and the Company on some safety issues, yet he took the time to come and congratulate me....and once again vocally advocate for Colin's employment, this time directly to the Vice President of Training.  His Loyalty.  I'll never forget it.

Gail, I realize that this may be hard for you to read, but please know that although our lives never overlapped very much, it didn't diminish the high regard and fraternal love we all had for Alex.  He was a fine man and I don't think I have ever known a calmer, thoughtful or more even, professional man than Alex.  He was indeed a prayerful Christian man who always looked out for others, and for that reason I believe that he is at peace with God at this very moment.   He is still with us, alive in our thoughts and just out of sight.  We will see him again.

Hugs and love to you and your families.  This is a good thing that you are doing and I hope the results will give you great comfort.

John and Sarah Mullis

Alex was a ramp agent for Air California at the beginning of his airline career.  I was his supervisor in SNA.  Our last flight of the evening arrived & flew on to San Diego.  We mishandled a passenger's bag that had been sent to San Diego.  The bag contained the passenger's Insulin.  Alex volunteered to fly to San Diego and retrieve it.  Doing so prevented any possible health incident the passenger may have had.  Alex did this of his own volition and only asked to be reimbursed for the cost of the renting the aircraft.  Alex was just one of those special people.  You know, the kind that you knew when you met him that he would make the world a better place for everyone he touched.  RIP good buddy.

I've read through all of the warm memories left here by the many people that had been so deeply influenced by this VERY rare man, Captain Alex Duron. I taught in DC-10 Ground School at FedEx, and had the honor of meeting Alex first as my Student. After my "Three Years in Purgatory" as a DC-10 Instructor, I had the higher honor of flying with Alex as his Flight Engineer and later as his First Officer in the beautiful DC-10. In the airlines, we very privately mention that someone was "Our Favorite Captain"; Alex was mine. I always felt safe in his company, no matter the weather, location, or circumstance. He flew by the book and had unerring judgement and airmanship. I can NEVER recall him getting mad, shaken, or in a rush. He let his crew do their jobs, trusted their individual expertise, and solicited your input when things started to get a little sideways. I discreetly kept a notebook as I moved up through the seniority list at FedEx. It was filled with dumb and dangerous things NEVER to do as Captain of my own crew and also the best practices and examples of the PERFECT way to run a crew. I stole all of Alex's best tricks and they served me well. I've encouraged my First and Second Officers to do the same ever since; Yet another lasting legacy and tribute to Alex. I fell down the airstairs coming out of a jet back in 2006 and broke my back. I managed to fly for three and a half more years. Despite his own medical challenges, Alex was always concerned about ME when we talked or met. He'd get me out of the house to do things like car shows and road rallies with him. I'll never forget his smile that looked like he had a secret that was going to make him bust out in laughter at any moment. The rest of us may strive to get to Heaven, but Alex is there. He was a Good Steward of the time God gave him on this Earth. He was loved by all, respected by all, and he deeply cared for us all. I can truly say, he was one of he finest men I've ever known.
Godspeed, Fair Weather, and Tail Winds, Captain Alex Duron!

Alex was one of the most kindest and  humble man I've ever met.  When he and Gail stayed at our cabin at Pickwick he bought me an encyclopedia of airplanes.  He took my son Blake flying in his airplane to see if he would like to be a pilot.  He came to my house and prayed for me when we were trying to sell our big house.  When my Mom died he was at the visitation offering me a drink of water when I couldn't leave the receiving line.  When I tried to get rid of a time share I looked and Alex was at the same meeting LOL for the same reason.  He was a great friend and I miss him and look forward to seeing him in the next life!

Alex Duron charmed me into buying a share of his airplane. He and Scott were the best gentleman/partners that I could have conjured into reality. Alex was a blessing counter, not a problem counter. He beamed his gratitude at the sheer knowledge that he could fly his own airplane anytime and anywhere he wanted. He beamed about most things. That habit, ability and inclination to beam drew people to himespecially kids! It was absolutely common to be discussing something with Alex somewhere along the mall area of Central Church when along would come some kid who completely adored Alex. Never the same kid; they ALL adored him! Whatever we were talking about could wait (true statement!) and Alex turned his whole attention to his young friends. It was something to watch!
My summary statement for my good friend Alex Duron would be along the line of that thing that pumped blood through Alex's body may have failed him, but there was NOTHING wrong with his HEART!

When I think of Alex Duron I think of the characteristics that he manifested so uniquely:  Godliness, kindness, trustworthiness, loyalty, honesty, and genuineness. He had such a zany humor that I never knew when he was joking or being serious. Alex was one of those people who could make you feel better just by being around him and everyone who knew Alex was uplifted and encouraged by his humor, strength and faith.

"Everytime a "Pony" drives by me I think of Alex and a smile follows as I think of the couple times I had the thrill of being his Pony "Driver" when he was not supposed to be driving himself.
I never left Alex's company without feeling better than I was feeling before seeing him.His sense of humor helped sharpen mine;kidding each other every time we met was how we enjoyed each other's company. 
Watching him with the little kids at church  was always fun and hard to tell if he or the kids were having more fun. 
Attending prayer meetings for our city with him and Gail was rewarding and strengthen our faith. He took the lead with putting up signs and then taking them down after each event. 
Alex was a funny,generous,caring,thoughtful,
grateful,loving friend and a follower of Jesus Christ. He enriched our lives and the lives of many others he befriended. 
Look forward to meeting him again one day and carrying on in heaven,God permitting,where we left off on earth.
RIP loving friend."

September 1  Alex's birthday Glenda posted
Missing you & your sweet smile Captain A ...

Bill sent this the day after Alex died(Jan 13,2015).
Alex Duron has checked into heaven.
Alex and I did the ALPA Accident Investigation program together in 2000 out at Kirkland AFB.  He was a gentle, kind, considerate guy with never a bad word, or complaint from him, ever.  To be liked, and admired by your colleagues is one of God's greatest gifts, and Alex had that in spades. 
 
Fair winds Alex, your journey is done, and you travelled it spectacularly!!!!

Alex and I were in the same new hire class.  Alex was always laid back and a very caring person.  He would always ask about my family and how I was doing when I crossed paths with him.  I miss his easy going nature.  He was well respected in the crew force. 
 
Thanks,

In July 2012,I went on a wonderful trip to the Canadian Rockies with Aunt Lucy,Gail and Alex.  It was so great.  The scenery was unbelievably beautiful.  Alex made all the arrangements and I think that he put us in the best places, in the best hotels with the best views possible.  Everything was just outstanding and I enjoyed every minute of it. Of course Alex was a huge part of that.  His generosity,consideration, sense of humor and just his presence were incredible.  I was so impressed to see the devotion to his mother,his wife Gail and his deep religious faith.  I remember a day trip to a glacier.  I don't think that Aunt Lucy took one step alone.  She had Alex on one side holding her up and Gail on the other.  It was just smooth and easy and I will not forget Alex's kindness to me.  I also remember that he kept teasing me because I had mispronounced  "Canada".  I have plenty of faith that he is now at peace and enjoying other beautiful scenery with the best views of all after such a well lived life.  Enjoy it all Alex.  You deserve it.

Sylvia Suvor

I'm so sorry to hear that Alex passed away.  What a terrible loss.  As I sit at my desk writing you, I'm looking at a picture of three very young long haired pilots standing next to an Air Cal Electra.  Howard Ogden was in charge of training at Air Cal, and if it weren't for this kind man and his great sense of humor, none of us would have made it through our engineer training.  One day we told Howard we were a little embarrassed when we looked at the simulator schedule and saw all these airline names.  Our time slot only showed Alex, Rich, and Ken.  A few days later when we looked at the schedule our names weren't there.  When we confronted Howard he said we were in fact there and told us henceforth we would be known as KRA World Airways.  You may recall we had four shirts made with that name on the back, and our initial on the front pocket.  Howard of course got the forth shirt.  I still have mine.  That was almost 40 years ago.
 
It has been wonderful staying in touch with Alex all these years and seeing our aviation dreams and goals come true.  Those dreams and goals seemed so far away that day the three of us stood in front of that Electra and could only hope and dream.
 
My kindest regards,

but I really wanted to think of as many attributes and fond memories as I could. Even then, I am sure I left out some! You and Alex have had such a positive and Christ-like impact on our lives.
 
Attributes

1. Alex was one of the most generous and optimistic people we have ever known.
2. He was always cheerful and funny!
3.Alex was totally committed to the Lord, his family, and friends and always showed love to everyone.

Precious Memories

1. I loved Alex hugs in the hall at church.
2. When you and Alex would come to the hospital, he would usually bring a "glove balloon" with a happy face!
3. It was delightful to see Alex's head when the children would use markers all over it!
4. I remember having you, Alex, Lucy, Jean, and Steve over for dinner.
5. Usually if we were around you and Alex, he would get a phone call from one of his "Sunday School" fans!
6. He surprised me one Sunday with his Sunday School class coming in our class and presenting me a name tag, "Miss Muffin"! He also had made one for AJ earlier that said "Mr Donut"!
7. One Sunday you and Alex needed extra help in Sunday School and I was honored to help!
8. One time when Alex had been in the hospital we brought you and Alex dinner.
As soon as he felt well enough to come back to church, yall took us to Carrabbas (sp)
9. Alex requested one of my chocolate pies and we promptly took it to him!
10. When AJ was in the hospital you and Alex came to get me and took me to dinner.
11. Alex sent  an email about yall finally got a "watch dog" and named him "Timex"! Only Alex could think of that!
12. Lucy was in town and yall came out to Arlington and took us to Vinegar Jim's. You had a doctor's appointment, so we showed Lucy and Alex on a brief "tour" of Arlington and to our house.  What a special memory! 

We love you so much, Gail,
AJ and Martha

Gail:  I was thinking of you yesterday (September 1). I know it must have been a sad day for you to miss Alex being there for his birthday with you. Just so sad for me to realize, once again (and I know you live with this whole in your heart every day) Alex is no longer with us .  Such a wonderful friend to me he was. I will ALWAYS think of him on his 1 Sept birthday and also at Christmas, when he (both of you) would send such funny cards. He never missed my April birthday to wish me well too. .He was so considerate. He made me laugh. I know you miss him terribly. I wanted you to know I remember you and send my friendship.
   Big hug from me.  Jill

Alex was truly one of the nicest persons  I have ever known. Alex and I were learning to fly about the same time and we shared a lot of our experiences of flying with our fathers. I still have the pictures that Alex took of my plane when we were flying over the California coast and Alex's Dad was with me and my father in my plane and were taking pictures of him. We made several flying trips with our fathers.  Great memories. Alex was in My Wedding in December 18th 1971. Just seems like yesterday. Alex was one of those Men that I never heard say a bad word about anyone and never criticized anyone. Was just a very kind gentle Giant. I miss him very much. He was taken way too soon.
 
Garnett Collins

Alex had a way of making everyone feel special and valued. He loved people, especially kids, and adored his dear wife Gail.  He was so generous and kind. He loved music--and had a song for every occasion. He had a passion for cars and loved to have fun. He had such a funny, quirky sense of humor. He is missed by so many.

Alex was a good friend to everyone. I remember when I was in the hospital, he and Cec came to see me.  He threw himself into the room acting like he had crossed a desert to get there.  He was such a character.  We could always count on him too.  It didn't matter what we were doing with Forever Young, he'd be there to help.  Whether it was stacking chairs at the Veterans Day event, providing an auction item, or attending a fundraiser, he was there.  I can't express how much this meant to Greg and me.  He cared deeply about others, which was very noticeable to all of us.
One thing I know, he really loved you and was very proud of you.  He thought you were beautiful!
No doubt, we are all better because of his generous heart and we all wish we could be more like him!  He is deeply missed!

Love you,
Diane Hight

I have been in practiced in healthcare as a bedside nurse for 8 years. One of the more frustrating, and rewarding aspects of the job is often the patient. It is a profession that I have come to appreciate the deep intimate relationships that can form in just a few encounters. 

I do remember meeting you and your husband in one of your first encounters with our hospital prior to his LVAD, and I remember the optimism and kindness you both shared. It is often a period of stress and anger when one faces the challenges of an advanced disease however I don't ever recall one ill word. I can remember the challenges you had during the initial surgical recovery. I had the responsibility of recovering Alex, almost every day for the first 2 weeks. That is one of the most challenging times for both the patient and the family as the stress and pain can be very over whelming. Alex had a rough couple of days, and I remember as he began to turn the corner for recovery. As much as it is exciting for the patient and family, the staff to become very invested in the recovery. As it is natural to assume our patients often become like our family as well. I don't ever recall Alex complaining, and he did what was asked. As nurses are investigators we are often the ones asking the questions. Do you have pain, are you having trouble breathing, what is the matter?  I remember that in every encounter he seemed to ask more about me than I did of him. He was engaged, and curious about my career, family, and life. He wanted to know who I was and where I was from. 

As it seems that over the next year, we would see a little more of Alex as he adjusted to his LVAD, and the LVAD adjusted to him. I can recall of a few times of him returning for a hospitalization whether for a dizziness episode, or whatever. He was always a favorite to have, and I enjoyed the many conversations with your family. I can remember the day in which he returned to the hospital for his last time. It was devastating to see such a kind man in such agony. The nursing staff worked tirelessly to see that he got the medical attention he needed. I remember during his last days, I spoke with him when Gail had stepped out of the room, and I expressed my concern for him and how he was progressing. Even in time of such pain and agony, he didn't complain. He said that he was blessed to have had the love of Gail, and that he was at ease because he knew she would be taken care of. It was clear of the great love and devotion he had for his wife and family. After he passed I and Magnolia were in the room to prepare his body, that can be a time that many dread. I have always found that to be one of the most rewarding aspects of my job. It gives me the time to make sure the patients are prepared in a way that preserves their dignity. It is also a time for the nursing staff to say their condolences. That day I prayed for Alex, as I do for all my patients when they pass. That day though, I had a sense of peace and I knew that while he was gone from this world that he was in a better place and that he was now pain free. 

The day he passed, was hard for everyone. After 8 years of bedside nursing, it still is one of the hardest things to know how to grief. Nurses touch lives that no other profession can understand. We rejoice in our patients recoveries, and we agonize over the devastation we see. While we may have only had brief encounters within our patients lives, the experiences and encounters are remembered forever. They help us to become better listeners, and healers so that the next patient that comes through the door can get our 100% devotion and care. I do believe I am a better man, father, and nurse because of the lessons I have learned at the bedside taking care of patients like Alex Duron. 

Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your life, and taking care of your husband. 

God bless, 

Daniel O'Donnell (Transplant ICU nurse)
10/15/15

I will always remember how Mr. Alex encouraged my daughter, Rebecca Smith, to laugh and to tell funny jokes. He used to pay her for a good one!

I remember watching Alex walk through his illness with grace.  I never heard him complaineven when he had to wear that vest for month after month through the hot summer.  I remember coming to the hospital to see him near the end.  His eyes opened wide when he saw methough he was sick, he always wanted to make people feel special and welcome.
 
I remember the day he died.  I was walking out of the hospital, and I saw Katrina, and she said, did you know that he got this LVAD one year ago today?  I got chills, because I knew God had granted Alex one more year of life with the LVAD.  In that year, Alex demonstrated a lot of love and grace to many people.  Though he was sick, he always treated people with respect and thoughtfulness.
 
I know this has been said before, but Alex had a song for everything.  No matter what, he had an iPod full of music to select the perfect soundtrack for whatever we were discussing.  What a unique, fun individual.  A kind, loving man who loved his wife very much, loved kids everywhere, and demonstrated Jesus in that love.  He was an example to us all.

It has been a pleasant and bittersweet thing to think about Alex in a collective way.  He never took himself seriously.  He derived great pleasure in making people laugh or giving them a little shock.  I can still see him in the ponytail hat.  He was so giving with his time and resources.  This is to me a  true measure of generosity.  I can see you and Alex driving up to my house to take Breck and Gabe somewhere special. They loved him too.   Gail, Alex loved you so completely that he was always ready to join you for any task, project, or outing.everything except yard work.  Alex was a truly humble man seeking no  notoriety, praise, or thanks.  He worked behind the scenes;  pleasing and helping others was his reward.  I can't remember his complaining about a thing;  even with so many challenges, he always had a smile on his face.  Ending on a light note  I think we should mention his beautiful skin.  It was flawless with the olive tone of his skin and silver hair he cut quite a figure. 
We loved him, and we love you too.

DEAR GAIL, SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. MY FAVORITE MEMORY, IT WAS THE LAST LEG OF MY HONOLULU TRIP AND MY LAST TRIP WITH FEDEX. (LAX- MEM )  
 
OF COURSE I HAD NO CAMERA WITH ME FOR THE OCCASION, BUT AS ALWAYS ALEX CAME TO RESCUE.
 
HE TOOK SEVERAL PHOTOS OF THE EVENT AND MAILED THEM TO ME. I WILL NEVER FORGET HIS KINDNESS!!!
 
                                                                                                                                                                                        REGARDS, BOB PROVOST, DC-10 CHECK AIRMAN (RETIRED)

My most specific memory of Alex was at the Collierville Antique Car Show last year.  In spite of his problems he was carrying his oxygen and his great smile was still on his face.  He was a good man.

I was only a little bit senior to Alex throughout our Fedex careers, so we never flew together.  Alex, and I, attended our first ALPA Aircraft Accident
Investigation School at Kirkland Air Force Base, where we took an Engine
course.  Being the only Fedex guys there, we spent a lot of time together doing the investigation projects, driving together, sharing meals, etc.  I came to know Alex as a seriously introspective guy, not a hip shooter, nor impulsive, but someone who respected and valued another's opinion, regardless of the difference with that opinion which opposed his own.  I came to realize in short order that this dimension in Alex's personality was rooted in kindness.  He had calmness about him, and a quiet demeanor, that was the result of an indefatigable strength of character, intelligence, and confidence.

Alex was a good guy, with a fine sense of humor, and he had the ability to make you comfortable with him almost immediately.  He was the guy you wanted to live next to on the block, talk about airplanes with, and share a flying life.   I am privileged, and honored, to have shared my flying life with Captain Alex Duron!!!!

Bill Savage

Alex was an amazing man. I'm glad to have known him for the short time he was with us. I knew a little of what he was going through those last few years, so I was most amazed at his positive attitude and the light-heartedness he demonstrated, right up to the end. 

I was always impressed how supportive Alex was toward the things that Gail was involved in, like anything to do with prayer. If he was in anyway able to, he would be at the monthly prayer times that she held for the city and region. He was not just there to pray along with everyone else, he participated in helping at the welcome desk, being there with a welcoming smiling face. 

He is truly missed by us all.

  It was always a pleasure taking care of Alex. Whether it be him calling from out of town and he didn't take enough medicine with him or his thing he made representing either a pet scan or cat scan. I looked back for the picture but with my phone updates, I lost it. He always had a great sense of humor and that is what made it so much fun caring for him.

Alex Duron   What A Guy!
Alex and I first met about January,1987, when we started DC-10 Flight Engineer upgrade training at Federal Express.  The most physical memory of him that I retain to this day was his remarkable handshake.  Alex had the most encompassing, warm, sincere handshake of anyone I have ever known.  His hands were large and they were a bit soft, and when the handshake grips happened, it was like putting on a comfortable pair of mittens...the handshake exuded warmth and camaraderie, trust and peace.  It was unforgettable and I have found myself thinking of that first whenever I think of him.  The Handshake.  I'll never forget it.

His sense of humor and self-deprecation was very endearing.  In one of our first DC-10 Flight Engineer classes, Dave Booth the instructor and a really good guy, went around the room and had us introduce ourselves with our backgrounds and how we got to Fed Ex.  We were all fairly serious and brief until Alex's introduction.  When Alex had his turn, in his easy, warm and bashful way, he told about how he grew up on the West Coast and built his flight time as a civilian pilot.  It was apparent that he seemed to have a Native American heritage and when Alex finished his introduction, Instructor Dave asked him if he had an Indian background. Alex kind of looked a little sheepish and responded "Yes".  So Dave asked him something like, "Really?  What tribe?", to which Alex chuckled the way he did and responded, "The Party Tribe".  We all about fell out of our chairs laughing...it was the perfect ice-breaker.  The class didn't settle down for about ten full minutes and it really set the tone for the rest for that training.  We had a very good class and we all worked well together, all because of Alex and his sense of humor.  The Sense of Humor.  I'll never forget it.

He was always thoughtful and considerate and a promoter of all things related to flying.  One day he came by the house when my three kids were young.  Alex took a liking to them but seemed to take interest in my oldest son, Andrew.  Alex had brought over a huge styrofoam glider for him, bigger than Andrew as a matter of fact, and took great joy in watching him try to throw it.  We spent about thirty minutes in the yard tossing the plane around and Andrew had it for a long time before it wore out.  He brought a couple of toys for our other two kids so they wouldn't feel left out, but he really enjoyed bringing the airplane.  His Generosity.  I'll never forget it.

On a Sunday in Novermber, 1994, Thanksgiving weekend, our property was leveled by a tornado in Germantown, TN.  We had recently converted an old shop into a house and were living in it while we built a new place where the old house had been.  Fortunately, we had just left home with the kids to go shopping for a Christmas Tree when the unannounced storm ripped through, so none of us were hurt.  And amazingly, the "little house" where we were living was spared, with only minor damage.  We lost two older cars and the new house was leveled to the slab.  Thirty very mature and old trees of various varieties were lost, snapped about 20 feet from the ground or uprooted completely.  Most of our things had been stored in moving boxes in a garage section that we saved from the demolition of the old house, and that now building was gone too.  Early the next morning, we were greeted by the sight of a couple of friends carefully navigating their way through the debris field to the little house.  One of them was Alex, who had come to help us sift through the destruction and recover whatever we could.  He had brought some sandwiches for us.  It was heartwarming and comforting to have him there as we tried to put our place back together, and I'll never forget his smile, comforting words and, of course, his warm handshake.  He worked in the cold with us all that day and in the next few days.  A couple of months later, we acknowledged the help of Alex, Gail and the other helpers with our Thank You Dinner at  a local restaurant.   His Kindness.  We'll never forget it.  

One day I was out working in my front yard and Alex drove up in his new Ford Mustang.  He was really proud of that car and I'll never forget his smile as he looked it over and described it to me.  He stayed for about thirty minutes, a welcome break for me, and I was sorry to see him have to leave.  As he was leaving I was wishing we were neighbors.  His Camaraderie.  I'll never forget it.

Alex called one day and wanted to know if we could go flying in a Cessna 172 that I have.  He had been on medical leave from Fed Ex due to some issues with his hip and leg.  He wanted to fly over and take some aerial photos of a piece of property that he and Gail owned out in the county.  My youngest son, Colin, was working on his flying credentials at that time and so I thought it would also be a great opportunity for Colin to get some instruction and guidance from Alex.  We flew around for a while after Alex finished taking pictures, and Colin received some helpful instruction from him.  Later on, Alex became a strong and vocal advocate for Colin as he endeavored to join Fed Ex as a pilot.  Ultimately, he was hired at United Airlines instead, but Alex never missed an opportunity to recommend Colin to Fed Ex.  His Concern And Advocacy.  I'll never gorget it.


On the day of my retirement, I was elated to see Alex in the audience with my family at the Falcon Building.  At the time, he was working with ALPA and the Company on some safety issues, yet he took the time to come and congratulate me....and once again vocally advocate for Colin's employment, this time directly to the Vice President of Training.  His Loyalty.  I'll never forget it.

Gail, I realize that this may be hard for you to read, but please know that although our lives never overlapped very much, it didn't diminish the high regard and fraternal love we all had for Alex.  He was a fine man and I don't think I have ever known a calmer, thoughtful or more even, professional man than Alex.  He was indeed a prayerful Christian man who always looked out for others, and for that reason I believe that he is at peace with God at this very moment.   He is still with us, alive in our thoughts and just out of sight.  We will see him again.

Hugs and love to you and your families.  This is a good thing that you are doing and I hope the results will give you great comfort.

John and Sarah Mullis

Jill sent this the day Alex died.
This is Jill in San Diego, Alex. My dear long time wonderful friend; you always could make me laugh. I can hear your chuckle now. How lucky I have been you cared for me all these years. I love you and admire all the strength and poise you have mustered. Feel my hugs. I am thinking of you , as often I do. Always, Jill

 I've been thinking a lot about Alex and when we first met in 1979.We were
both flight instructors in San Diego at Gillespie Field. Charley Wilson had
been working at Western Sun Aviation for a while before Alex and I got
there. So he was the "senior" guy.
 Alex and I were both working on earning more instructor ratings and flew with a Chief Pilot and FAA Designee named Mike Murray who also worked at Western Sun. Alex and I were paying for our multi-engine instructor ratings and we were taking lessons with him.
 
There was quite a party for Alex and me when we finally got our multi-engine instructor ratings! One of my private pilot students, Mary Matthews an elementary school teacher, had a party at her apartment with many pilots, students and instructors attending. She made baseball caps adorned with colored balloons for Alex and me, so we were pretty hot! Great
party.

 Charley, Alex and I flew for Western Sun into 1980 and we often talked
about what we needed to do to get our flying careers going. Whether with a
commuter airline, corporate aviation or anywhere we could get more flight
time, especially multi-engine time. We agreed that if we couldn't find
better flying jobs in San Diego that we would go wherever the flying was.
Charley heard that there were good jobs in Texas and talked a lot about
Dallas. We talked about Alaska and heard about ferrying airplanes to Mexico and South America and thought we could try that. Despite the fact that none of us had the flight time or international experience we were thinking big!

The three of us started splitting up as I went to a local commuter, Air
Bahia, which went out of business in three months. Charley did end up in
Texas at Addison Airport in Dallas. Alex ended up getting a Lear job at
Orange County for I think a real estate developer, Koll(?).

Later when I had been hired for a corporate job in Las Vegas in the
early 80's I often flew to Oklahoma City for maintenance on our jet at Wiley Post Airport. Alex had gotten a job selling Aero Commander turboprops in Bethany, OK which is right on Wiley Post. On one of my trips we met at the
airport and caught up on each other and all of our pilot friends.Great visit.

Alex always had a dry sense of humor and that was never more apparent
than a sales story he told about Commanders. His main competition was the Beechcraft Kingair, a well designed very popular turboprop in the same class as the Aero Commander. One of the criticisms of the Commander was their very loud engines compared to the Kingair. When Alex would hear this complaintfrom potential buyers he would say, "Well, after takeoff just shutdown one engine, you'll be quieter than the Kingair and still out climb it." Great
pilot joke because you would never shutdown an engine after takeoff unless
it was an emergency! Especially not to fly quieter!

 Alex had gotten into the habit of calling me "Broadway Joe" which was
the nick name for a big time NFL quarterback at that time,Joe Namath. Namath played for the New York Jets, and I was from New York, so Alex just called me that. When I heard "Broadway" Joe recently I flashed on Alex and I'll
admit it made me sad.

Alex was such a class guy and a class pilot. I always enjoyed his sense
of humor and solid personality. I look back fondly on those early flying
years together, I was honored to know him and to fly with him. I miss him.
> luv,
> Joe
>

I am so sorry to hear of Alex passing. I feel quite fortunate to have known him and flown many great trips with him. What a terrific gentleman with a wonderful soul. He always had that warm calming smile and air about him. It was always a good feeling to be in his presence. The world has to few people of Alex quality. 
Sincerely, Hal Widener #379 Retired

 I was lucky enough to know Alex in the Mid South Mustang Club.  He was one of our most dedicated members and enjoyed his company.  He sometimes brought kids from his church with him to some of the car shows.  He had always called me by my nickname Tater'.  We really miss him and Gail.

So glad to add a few.
Mine of Alex started when we met working at Air California in Orange County.
I had just graduated from college and was working loading bags waiting to see what I was going to do next. Back to graduate school or somehow start a flying career.
Alex and I hit it off as good friends both interested in flying.
I was just getting my private pilots license and Alex was my mentor at the time as the guy with more experience and a lot more flight time than me.

We did a bunch of flying things together.
Went back to Albany Georgia together and ferried a brand new single engine Aero Commander back across country for a dealer in Socal.

Rented a Beech Bonanza together and flew my Mom to Arizona and back

Alex bought a little Pitts acrobatic plane and wanted me to go in with him as a partner buying it. At the time it was way too much airplane for my skills and abilities. So I declined the offer to buy half the plane. Years later after I became a Navy pilot, I looked back and wished I had bought that plane for the skills I had then.

I watched Alex doing his practice taxiing in the Pitts. And also was there when he accidentally got airborne while taxiing....and decided ,what the heck, I might as well go flying now, I am already airborne!

I was also there at the airport when Alex returned in a panic as while practicing his taxiing, he hadn't noticed how low the fuel was. Alex ran out of gas as he entered downwind at OC airport (now John Wayne).  His first landing in his new plane was an out of gas dead stick landing on runway 19R.  Pretty exciting but he pulled it off without hurting himself or scratching the plane.

My mother did an Oil Painting of Alex's plane which you may still have.

Alex came back to Beeville Texas and visited me  while I was in Navy flight training flying th A Skyhawk. We got Alex all dressed up in all my flight gear and G Suits.

We stayed in touch as we both pursued are different paths in aviation. Alex and I flew one more time together in Dallas Texas. By then I was already flying for Delta and Alex was flying a twin Aero Commander for some company. We took the plane up and he let me make a couple passes to see how I'd do landing a plane where you sat so low it seemed your butt was on the ground when you flared. By then I was used to sitting a little higher in a 727.

Alex was kind, generous and loved people--especially his beloved wife Gail. Alex had a way of making you feel special, comfortable and welcome. His quirky sense of humor and love for music and cars were so memorable. He was a true gentleman and a one of a kind. He is missed by so many.

I remember Alex as always smiling and happy. He was very encouraging to me. He always asked when I was going to sing next because he wanted to be there. He would say that he was going to talk to who ever was in charge so that they would let me sing. That is such an encouragement to a singer!  To know you have at least one supporter is wonderful!  I'm sure everyone else has mentioned that he was so silly that the kids just absolutely loved him- he could get on their level. Always kind, always living, always encouraging, always happy. What a man!

In the short of amount time on earth I learned so much from this man. I leaned to laugh more, smile more, pray more, how music is supposed to sound, and have a questionnaire for everyone you meet. I blessed to spend the rest of my life with his God-daughter. I will hold my promise true to always spoil and cherish his princess.  Save me some Tabasco, I'll see you soon.

Alex was an amazing man. He was always there for Jacob and me. There are many memories of our trips and weekend trip to Memphis.  I love Alex like a father.  He treated me like a princess and showed me by example how lady should be loved/treated by the way he treated you, Gail.  You are always in our hearts and mind. We miss you daily Alex.

Alex was HILARIOUS!  He kept me laughing.  I loved our Words With Friends games.  We always had at least two games going and I always beat him soundly:) 
He was so generous.  He has done so much for us and we are appreciative.  I miss Alex, his jokes, his music and his friendship. Love

I'm thankful for Alex for many reasons but here's a couple that come to mind.
1.  His sense of humor.  He was so funny and unique.  He would bring laughter to almost any situation or to any room/group of people.
2. Caring/Giving.  Alex cared and gave to so so many people.  The way he gave was in a truly God honoring way.  He never gave to gain praise or admiration.  The one hand did not know what the other was doing.
The scores and scores of people that were positively impacted by his caring/giving spirit are now known with probably more that still are not known.

Alex helped me try to achieve my dream of flying and helped me keep my truck. I am thankful for every single opportunity that God gave me to be around Alex Duron.

I am thankful for all the awkwardly goofy moments that he brought to the table :)  You never knew what to expect whenever Alex was in the room!

I am thankful for the legacy Alex left with the children.  Amazing how he loved the children.

Alex's special sense of humor always caught me off guard.  I had to think about it and then I would laugh and laugh.  I loved how he loved us and did so many special things to bring laughter to all.  He is missed.

Gail, it is such a privilege to have met you and Alex.  I'm just sorry I met him in the hospital during his last years. I wish I had known him sooner.
 I always enjoyed seeing him and experiencing the joy that he had. He was always in a good mood, laughing, joking and, well, just being "Alex"!  I remember telling him to be very careful when talking to Dr. Amos, the psych dr, so he would not think Alex was crazy!  I loved that he always called me "Kat Woman" and I still have the mask that you two sent me on my desk at work.  I always want to remember.....
On a couple of my visits when you were not there, he told me some of how you two met and that he had better stick close to you because "Gail always drew a crowd!"  He loved you and didn't want to risk losing you.  
Alex was such a funny, yet kind, gentle, and compassionate man.  I am so fortunate to have had the opportunity to have known him and to be able to call him a friend.

I am thankful that Alex:
Lends a calming spirit to otherwise stressful moments. Is generous. Good listener. Always interested in what you have to say and your opinion. Makes you feel special. Always brings great wine and food to events. Crazy jokes that make you "think".  Alex would do "anything" for you!  Always had good advice.  Patient.  So thankful Alex came into Gail's life and our family's life.  Thankful for the friend he was to me, as well as brother.

Alex gave me a baseball cap with a gray ponytail on it.  It freaked everybody out at my class reunion!

I am thankful for the way Alex never was afraid or ashamed to be a kid.  He didn't hesitate to be silly and enjoy life.  Always a smile :)

Alex was always so caring and genuine.  He always let Jesus' love shine.  I am so thankful for how he spread such love and care.  He always knew how to make me smile.

Oh my Darlin', how I miss you. I love you so much.  As Roe said "we were the answer to each others prayers."Thank you, Lord, for my wonderful husband.  Thank you for all the blessings you gave us like love, faith, joy, strength, family and friends."  As people tell stories about you, some are surprised to hear what a great man you were in so many areas.  I am glad I knew that.  

You were so strong and courageous that last year with the LVAD.  You never once complained.  You were full of hope and gratitude.  I am trying to follow your example.  

You were loving, faithful, thoughtful, generous, fun, grateful, courageous.  Alex, you made every day an adventure.  I am so proud to have been your wife.  I love you!

Gail
Words seem so inadequate to express our sympathy. Alex has been such an inspiration to Dick and I, as have you, being such an example of a devoted Godly wife. We are confident that God will uphold you during the coming days.
In Christ, Dick and Suzie

Please accept our condolences. May God Almighty comfort you in the days ahead.  2 Thessalonians 2:16,17

Sorry for your loss. May God be with the family during this time of grief.

Just today i was remembering the last conversation I had with Alex. My son Ethan was ill and had missed church so of course Alex called him to check on him and to tell him he loved him. when i got passed the phone we were talking about health and he said"Michelle don't ever get old, its no fun." i replied that me and Jesus already have that worked out, Jesus will come back before I get old! Alex laughed and laughed, he said"its so good to finally know a time frame" Laughing with Alex was such a blessing and boy oh boy did he like to make people laugh! He loved with abandon. Their are not words to express how much we miss him. Thank you Gail for sharing him with us. we love you so! Honnen Family

I am so sorry for your loss.  Alex was a dear and funny friend back in the 70's at Air California.  He was such fun, always so upbeat and I was always glad to see him.  I know he will be greatly missed.

I remember Alex from Valley High School, back when we both had hair and were both a bit skinnier. Over the years we shared at Valley there were some funny times and a lot of study times. He usually had a smile on his face that I found contagious, at least that's how I always remembered him.

So sorry to hear of your family's loss.

So sorry we were unable to attend the services, but you are in our thoughts and prayers. 

Don and Joy Jacobs.

It was an honor to have spoken with Alex at the Valley High School 40th Reunion. He flew in for the event and I remember he was so tickled to have won a raffle prize. I remember the smile and the way his eyes lit up when he won. I will miss him dearly.He was a sweet and dear friend. Lorraine P. Bate

Gail, I am so sorry for the loss of "your Alex".  He is flying higher and greater than he has ever flown before and seeing sights of which  we can only dream. Alex & I had a sweet little visit at your mailbox just before he went into the hospital, he was sharing with me his sightings of "Socks" and about a friend of mine that he was in Bible study with. With his obvious love of children, I would imagine God has given him  the very important honor of welcoming the little ones to Jesus.  May God give you comfort in the days ahead.  Your neighbors,  Pat & David Cosby

I fondly remember Alex from Santa Ana Valley High School as fellow Falcons from the Class of 1970. May God grant him eternal rest, rewards for his faithful labors, and peace and comfort to his family. My condolences to everyone who will miss Alex's physical presence in this life. Pearline Alamilla Smith

Gail, meeting you and Alex at Mary Elizabeth's and Jacob's wedding was another "God Event" for Andy and me.  Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.  Each loss is special in its own way, but I lost the love of my life in February, so I have some idea what you are experiencing.  If you want to talk, Mary Eliz. has my contact information.  God bless you!

Peggy Kaufmann (Mary Edgar's sister)

Gail and family...I was not able to see you at visitation or the service today. Alex has made a great impact on my life for many years. Gail, your prayers have encouraged me over and over again. Alex was a Godly man...for him to live was Christ and now to die is gain...the gain of Heaven, eternal life, and face to face with Jesus Christ our Savior. How precious is it is God's sight for one of his precious saints to die. Romans 14:7-9 has always given me strength and great hope Gail: "For none of us lives to himself, and no one dies to himself. For is we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. Therefore, whether we live or die, we are the Lord's. For to this end Christ died and rose and lived again, that He might be Lord of both the dead and the living." My prayers for you and family continue. Love, Terry and Phyllis Burnside

I am sincerely sorry to hear of the loss of Alex from this life and pray that God gives his family peace at this time.  Alex was a dear friend of mine at Santa Ana Valley High, Class of 1970.  We shared fun times and he was always taking photos; I believe for the yearbook.  I am so grateful for the class reunion at which I was last able to see him.  God bless you all and Alex, may you forever enjoy flying with the Angels.  Your friend, Debbie Bleskey Benson

Alex was a dear class mate at Santa Ana Valley high school. Class of 1970 Falcons. We all had the opportunity to see him five years ago at the class reunion, Love and prayers to his wife and family. Jane Irmscher/Andrews

Gail, please know you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers today!  We love you and we pray for God's comfort on you and your family.

Gail, I am so sorry Alex is gone. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Gail,I wish I could have know Alex longer.He was such an amazing man and would just light up the room with his wit and great personality.My thoughts and prayers are with you now and always.

Dear Gail and family. You are in my heart and on my mind as you go through this journey. My prayer is that GOD will grant you HIS peace, comfort and grace.

Alex was loved and a huge part of Central Church.  He will be sorely missed at Central and by us at FedEx.  Tom Holler

Alex, I noticed that a lot of the pics are with the kids, I know you loved them and they loved you. You will be missed

RIP Alex. You were loved and admired by many during the time you shared with us.

Alex has always been an upbeat inspirational guy even in the most difficult times. I appreciated him most when we worked with the children at Las Americas. Heaven is even brighter with him.

Gail, I am so saddened and sorry for your loss. Alex and I go way back. He was my friend and pilot mentor as I first started out as a Private Pilot back in our Air California days. I was the new guy then, and he was the one I looked up to for answers. What a great guy that was loved by so many.
Steve and Terry Shapard, Park City, Utah

Gail, we are thinking and praying for you and your family in this time of sorrow. God Bless. Joe and Rosemary Burns Mt. View at Pickwick

My heart and sympathy go out to Gail and the whole family.  Alex had it all.  He was an accomplished and expert pilot, a great leader, true friend and devoted family man.  A mensch in the fullest meaning.  His life and memory will remain with us all.

Gail - I am so sorry for your loss.  Alex was a wonderful person and he is flying in heaven with GOD

I am so sorry for your loss. Alex had a passion for his Mustangs and his faith. We are going to miss him a great deal, he was alot of fun to be around. he always had a some kind of gimmick or special add on to his Stang.

OBITUARIO

Alexander "Alex" Harvey Duron

1 septiembre, 1952 – 13 enero, 2015

Memphis Funeral Home

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