surrounded by family.
Don was born in Oxford, Nebraska, and raised on the family ranch about 4 miles west of town. Don fell in
love with flying while watching the Airplanes that flew over the farm during World War II. He grew up
riding and tending horses and helping on the farm. He graduated from Oxford High School in 1950. He
built up a stock car and raced on dirt tracks during the early 50’s. He also played steel guitar in a local
band and was on TV in his local area. His first marriage was to Susan Olney of Oxford Nebraska in 1952;
two sons were born of this marriage, Tim Rhynalds an William (Bill) Rhynalds . He attended American
Flyers Academy in Corpus Christi , Texas and received his pilot ratings. He went on to fly many types of
airplanes, finally landing a job with Lake Central Airlines in Indianapolis. That airline merged with
Allegheny Airlines which became US Airways. He retired at age 60, flying as an International Captain on
the Boeing 767. During retirement he pursued his hobbies of aerobatic competition, winning many
trophies and became the Advanced US National Champion in 1984. He also collected and rebuilt old
cars and trucks. He took great pride in the restoration of his farm house.
The biggest project of his life was buying and rebuilding an Albatross flying boat (HU-16). The Albatross
took top honors at Sun & Fun, Fl and AirVenture, Oshkosh, WI. Once finished his biggest thrill was
traveling with friends and family and taking Miss Splash to airshows and Lake Anna for swimming &
picnics. Those that got to go with him will never forget the experience. Don & Diane have traveled the
world during their 43 yrs. of marriage. He was a member of the International Aerobatic Club, the
Experimental Aircraft Association, the Freemasons, the Soaring Eagles of USAirways and the Quiet
Birdman. He attended Chapel Springs Church, Bristow Va.
He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Diane Wilson Rhynalds; son, Tim Rhynalds (Vickie); son, Bill
Rhynalds (Donna); step-son, Emerson Sox (Debra); step-daughter, Sue Ellen Brown (Jerry); daughter,
Kelly Gorsuch; Shawn Gorsuch; 12 grandchildren, Kastel, Kamille, Jessica, Allysa, Evan, Cameron,
Morgan, Christina, Michelle, Patrick, Isabelle, and Rhylan; 5 great-grandchildren; and Susan Olney
Rhynalds.
A celebration of life with a viewing will be held from 5:00 to 9:00pm on Friday, October 26, 2018 at the
family farm, 5350 Savannah Branch Rd., Bealeton, VA 22712. A private burial will take place at Grove
Baptist Church Cemetery, Goldvein, Virginia.
