JJ Frey, who for decades ran EDO’s float division, passed away at age 89, according to his grandson, Julian Frey.

JJ was a good friend, and literally a font of information about all things seaplane. He was also a lot of fun to be around. As my experience on floats grew, JJ often answered questions and offered advice that was always well founded and helpful. I was always amazed at his recall of seemingly arcane developments of various float development and operations. His presentations on float operations, accidents and seaplane recoveries were always excellent.

He also had a great sense of humor and often kept his fellows in stitches with his humor. I will certainly miss our annual visits during Airventure. Rest In Peace, JJ!

MTV

It's always good, in a way, to hear of someone who had a long flying or at least aviation related career, and ended up living to a ripe old age and I assume dying of natural causes in bed. Kind of a "told you flying was safe" to the non flying ground pounders, Bob Hoover being the prime example.

courierguy wrote:It's always good, in a way, to hear of someone who had a long flying or at least aviation related career, and ended up living to a ripe old age and I assume dying of natural causes in bed. Kind of a "told you flying was safe" to the non flying ground pounders, Bob Hoover being the prime example.

One of the last times I visited with JJ, he'd had two knees replaced and was playing mixed doubles in tennis, with a gal about a third his age.....

MTV

JJ was great, I’ll miss him and echo MTV’s sentiments. I was fortunate enough to sit next to him at several tradeshows over the years and soak in the stories.

Tailwinds and light seas my friend, RIP.

JJ was great, I’ll miss him and echo MTV’s sentiments. I was fortunate enough to sit next to him at several tradeshows over the years and soak in the stories.

Tailwinds and light seas my friend, RIP.

Helped us out with first hand stories on the flight testing of 3500 amphibs. Let us understand what we could do to get the most out of them. Then sent drawings for us to use.

In addition to that, he was everything that was said above. A gentleman, and fun to be near. My recollections are from his attendance at KOSH.

Blue skies.

RIP sir. I never met JJ Frey but think I may have spoken/corresponded with him several years ago on a float question. I only recall the fact that he was exceedingly helpful and full of information as has already been mentioned. Another good one is gone and we can all strive to be like him and others that have gone before him.

It's been a tough last few months personally. I lost my dad, an uncle, a cousin, and a friend all within the last couple of months. I still visit these forums for a bit of upbeat incentive during the dark times. May they all rest in peace.