I just wanted to post here to let everyone know what happened as I'm sure some here have crossed paths with Dan... More details are available with a quick google search.

On Sunday night Dan did not make it back from his flight from Saratoga Springs to Malone NY. The plane was later found near Santanoni Mountain which is pretty remote place in the heart of the Adirondack high peaks with no survivors. Dan was a CFI as well as the local designated pilot examiner. I took all of my checkrides with Dan and any who knew him knows that we lost one of the best pilots the world has ever seen. He was an man who lived life his own way and his happiness was infectious. He spread aviation through countless many and really did love flying. Along with Dan in the plane was another local Ron Rouselle who came for the ride. He also was a pilot and really enjoyed flying in the mountains. He owned a cessna 140. These two will be sorely missed those who have flown in Northern NY are sure to know Dan and the Malone airport.

Dan touched my life and I will really miss him as a friend and a pilot. He taught me to fly on floats and then gave me my rating, it was one of the best aviation experiences I have ever had.

The cause of the accident is still unknown, but what is known is that we have lost a great friend and aviator who's legacy will live on with all of the pilots he taught and certified.

Blue skies Dan and Ron, my thoughts and prayers are with you and you're families.

Mike

Damn, sorry to hear that, Mike. I did see that accident in the Google news feed, but there's never any way of knowing if it's someone in this circle. It is particularly hard to lose those individuals who more often that not are the ones who gave us the keys to some of the best experiences in life, and whose words continue to ring in your ears for years after.

That's a moving tribute to your friends. I can't imagine the papers are going to say it any better or truer. Very sorry for your loss.