Mr. Douglas Reed Postlewait

He was 89 years old, and, right up until his final days, he enjoyed visits from family and friends. He assured everyone that he was comfortable, that he was receiving great care, and that he was at peace. What a comfort and gift he gave with these words!

Douglas Reed Postlewait was born to Clifford and Maxine Postlewait on November 11, 1936 in Omaha, Nebraska. Growing up on the outskirts of Omaha, he embraced the outdoor life from an early age (except for the chicken shed chores — he had choice words about that duty!). Doug was always intrigued with aviation. Active in ROTC in both High School and College, he was awarded the “Nebraska ROTC Cadet of the Year,” which provided him an opportunity to earn his private pilot’s license. There was no stopping him after that. He joined the US Naval Cadet Aviation Program in 1957, and was commissioned as a Naval Aviator the following year where he served three deployments on the USS Midway. During his time in the Navy, he was qualified on ten different aircraft, but spent most of his time in the AD-6 Skyraider, and finished with the supersonic F8U Crusader. He left the Navy in 1964 to better care for his family, and he enjoyed a long career as a commercial pilot with United Airlines. At United he was well known for his knowledge and fondness of the DC-8.

Doug was preceded in death by his loving wife, Ruth (Elliott) Postlewait. Ruth was his first passenger when he received his pilot’s license. They were married November 6, 1958 in Corpus Christi, Texas, and Ruth had the honor of pinning his Naval Aviator Wings. Their first son was born in Oakland, California in 1960, and their second son was born in Pensacola, Florida in 1963. They settled in Burien and Normandy Park in 1964.

Always an innovator, he cobbled together a scuba tank in high school and used it to clean out community pools. As a Landing Signal Officer on the Midway, he developed a glide slope indicator for carrier landings which later became known as the meatball system. Using the same idea, he created an affordable glide slope indicator for use on rural airfields.

Doug loved his family, and shared his love of camping, photography, fishing, boating, and all outside activities. He especially enjoyed attending all the events of his grandchildren. He and Ruth settled into Emerald Heights in Redmond, where he enjoyed making new friends, working in the wood shop, and playing with the Ukulele Band. He also regularly attended the monthly meetings of the Retired United Pilots Association (the Gooney Birds) at SeaTac, and the Olympic Squadron of Naval Aviators in Port Ludlow. Doug greatly appreciated the friendship and camaraderie of these groups.

Doug is survived by his sons Dana (Diana) and Scott (Katie); four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; and his brother Roland (Pam).

To honor his wishes, his memorial service will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to:

The Museum of Flight

9404 East Marginal Way S

Seattle, WA 98108

phone: 206-764-5700