Known to many for his generous spirit and courageous approach to life, no matter what came his way, Hal fought the good fight, finished the race and kept the faith during his fight against cancer. Hal Small was a Seattle Cancer Care Alliance patient for three years volunteering for treatment research which led to development of new life saving drugs. Growing up in five different states, he made friends with others who possessed the same scientific, creative interest in disassembling and assembling anything mechanical that crossed their paths. A 1970 graduate of Blanchet High School, Seattle Washington, he was a science geek as well as responsible for building sets for school plays and a long distance runner. Hal flew his first solo flight on his 16th birthday in a float plane, taking off and landing on Lake Union. He attended Parks College of Aeronautics, St Louis University, which launched his aviation career. He rose through the ranks of Boeing Seattle becoming Superintendent of Experimental Flight Test, retiring in 2009. Upon retirement, he was an Associate Professor in the Aviation School at Everett Community College. He was a member of the Washington Pilots Association and held certifications in Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic and Inspection Authorization and continued to work after retirement doing general aviation annual inspections, aircraft maintenance and accident investigations.
During his lifetime, he helped develop the Parish of Holy Cross in Granite Falls/Lake Stevens, WA and he became a Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus. Hal is survived by his wife of 45 years, Michele Caprye Small and their son Mike; his sister Anita and niece Anna. Mike (Peggy) Caprye; Monica (Mike) Ricketts; Mark (Kathy) Caprye; many nieces and nephews as well as friends, far and wide, who will not forget his infectious laugh, willingness to tackle any problem and never ending ability to help.
Catholic Funeral Mass will be held at Immaculate Conception Arlington, WA at 10 AM on July 15, 2021. A rosary will be said at Weller Funeral Home, Arlington, WA at 7PM on July 14, 2021. In lieu of flowers, Hal requested donations to the Knights of Columbus, Arlington Food Bank and The Museum of Flight.
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