Harry Gene Rose, beloved husband, father, uncle, friend, aviator, and storyteller, passed away peacefully after a life filled with service, adventure, family, and a deep passion for flying and hunting.
Harry was born on November 18, 1931, in Akron, Ohio, to Virgil and Evelyn Rose. He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved sister, Dorothy Louise Kleski; and his son, Arthur Rose.
In 1980, Harry married Becky S. Dent Rose, and together they shared 46 years of marriage. He is survived by his wife, Becky; his children, Jack Rose and Marie Rose Parks; his beloved niece, Susan Brooks and her husband, James, of St. Pete, Florida; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews throughout Texas.
Harry proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1951 to 1955, attaining the rank of Master Sergeant. His commitment to aviation and service continued throughout his life. From 1959 to 1968, he served in the Arizona Air National Guard and later served in the Air Force Reserve as a flight engineer on C-124 and Boeing C-97 aircraft.
His professional life was equally distinguished. Harry was a flight engineer instructor for American Airlines from 1969 until 1996, sharing his extensive knowledge and experience with generations of aviation professionals. From 1972 to 2015, he owned and operated Rose Aviation Services, a testament to his lifelong dedication to aviation.
Harry was also a proud member of the Confederate Air Force and The Quiet Birdmen Fraternity. He was a Benefactor Member of the National Rifle Association and enjoyed the outdoors, particularly hunting. But above all, flying was his passion. Whether in the cockpit, teaching others, working on aircraft, or simply talking about aviation, Harry found joy in the world of flight.
Those who knew Harry will remember more than his accomplishments. They will remember his stories. He was a great storyteller who could captivate a room with tales of his experiences, adventures, flying, hunting, and the people he encountered throughout his remarkable life. His stories, humor, wisdom, and larger-than-life personality will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Harry lived a long and extraordinary life marked by service, family, friendship, and an unwavering love of aviation. His legacy will continue through the family he loved, the people he taught, the lives he touched, and the many stories that will be told about him for years to come.
In lieu of saying goodbye, Harry's family invites those who knew and loved him to remember him by sharing a story, enjoying the outdoors, looking to the sky, and remembering a man who spent his life doing what he loved—flying, hunting, and telling a good story.
