Midcoast Aviation founder John Tucker died August 30 in Vero Beach, Fla., at the age of 82. Born June 21, 1933 in St. Louis, Tucker launched his aviation career as a Naval aviator for the U.S. Marine Corps in the 1950s. There he rose to the rank of captain. Following his service, Tucker became indoctrinated in aviation services and modifications, working under Bill and Betty Remmert at Remmert-Werner at Lambert -St. Louis Municipal Airport from 1958 to 1968. He then moved to New York to become president and COO of Butler Aviation. In 1971, Tucker returned to St. Louis and founded Midcoast Aviation and Airport Terminal Services, where he remained for the next 20 years. Under his stewardship as president and CEO, the companies expanded from 17 employees to 1,700. 

His contributions were recognized by both NATA and NBAA, which honored his lifetime achievements with the Ong Award and Meritorious Service to Business Aviation Award, respectively. Additionally, NBAA recognized Tucker with the First Century of Flight Award.

Visitation is planned for 10 a.m. September 10 at Chapel of Sts. Mary and Joseph Catholic Church in St. Louis, with a service following at 11 a.m. A reception will be held after the service at the church until 2 p.m., and a burial will take place on September 11 at Calgary Cemetery, also in St. Louis.