20th September 2007
From Elmer Ward's Grandson Kelly:
"Today 9-20-07 Elmer Ward passed away in Chino CA. I am his grandson Kelly and I
spent years at the airport as a kid tagging along with him and logging more hours
in a P-51 than any other kid I've met.
His amazing life ended peacefully with his wife at his side after a long battle
with Alzheimer's disease. His accomplishments in life were truly incredible and
he will be deeply missed. "
Elmer purchased 44-72739 in 1975 from Universal Studios. He proceeded to restore
the aircraft and painted it up in the colors of Colonel Clairborne Kinnard
Jr.’s “Man O’ War”. Elmer was a very diligent warbird owner and set out to keep
his aircraft impeccably maintained. Ward purchased many of the spares he used from
Pioneer Aero in Burbank. In 1984, Ward had the opportunity to buy the company
and he did. His son Bret was in charge and they purchased more spares from Cavalier
and from Gordon Plaskett.
Elmer's desire to restore the P-51 Mustang led to the first TF-51 dual control
restoration. Elmer decided to split the parts and restoration divisions of
Pioneer Aero Services and in 1995 started up "Square One Aviation"
which went on to produce many stunning P-51 restorations. Elmer sold the company
in 2003.
Over the years Elmer has made many friends in the business is respected throughout.
He was a gentleman and will be missed by all.