William McCarthy Obituary

USAF Retired Bill McCarthy, age 78, died peacefully at home on Monday, June 9, 2008. He was born July 16th, 1929 to H. Justin and Zella McCarthy in Erie, PA. After graduating from Academy High School, Bill enlisted in the Air Force in December 1949. He was proud of his 26 year career as a USAF bomber pilot. Bill flew the B-45, B-66, B-47 and B-52's, including "Diamond Lil" located near the North Gate on the USAFA. He flew over 200 combat missions in Korea and Vietnam, accumulating over 11,000 hours in military aircraft. During his distinguished career he received several military decorations including the Bronze Star. Bill and his family moved numerous times before settling in Colorado Springs in 1974 where he retired in 1976. Bill's love of flying continued at the USAFA for the next 22 years as a Tow Pilot and later as the Chief Tow Pilot for Fischer Aviation. He amassed over 60,000 glider tow flights and retired with 26,400 lifetime flying hours. Bill enjoyed bird hunting, bird dogs, shooting skeet and trap, and was a longtime fan of USAFA football. He was a member of the Daedalians, the Holy Apostles Knights of Columbus, and volunteered numerous hours at Holy Apostles Catholic Church. He was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Peg, also of Erie, PA. He is survived by his brother James V. (Linda) of Erie, PA., daughter Karen List of Omaha, Nebraska, son Mike (Julie), daughter Colleen, son Bill (Deb) all of Colorado Springs, daughter Peggy of Tucson, AZ, and seven grandchildren Shea, Danny, Stephanie, Owen, Shelby, Austin and Ryan. Bill's distinctive voice and laughter could be heard up and down the block. He was a friend to all, had a keen sense of humor and was always upbeat and happy. Visitation will be from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM on Thursday, June 12, 2008 at Evergreen Funeral Home 1830 E. Fountain Blvd, Colorado Springs. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 AM on Friday, June 13, 2008 at Holy Apostles Catholic Church 4925 N. Carefree Colorado Springs. A reception will follow the Mass at the church. Interment will be at 1:00 PM at Evergreen Cemetery. In lieu of flowers Memorial Contributions may be made to The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission PO Box 30370 Lincoln, NE 68503.