Preston S. (Pete) Parish
FAA ATP – rated pilot Preston S. (Pete) Parish began his aviation career with the U. S. Marine Corps during World War II, where he worked his way up to the rank of major. Pete successfully completed his flight training syllabus but was released from active duty before receiving official designation as a naval aviator. In 1984, the U. S. Navy recognized its error and Pete received his Navy Wings of Gold.
After his military service Pete initiated and set up the aviation department at the Upjohn Company of Kalamazoo, Michigan. He served as chairman of the board of the National Business Aircraft Association (NBAA) from 1985 to 1987. Pete held another chair position on the board of Kal-Aero Inc. from 1973 until 1998, when it was sold to Duncan Aviation.
After purchasing an N2S Stearman, Pete became very involved with EAA Warbirds of America and was elected to the board of directors, later serving as Warbirds president from 1976 to 1980
Pete is a co-founder of the Kalamazoo Aviation History Museum, also know as the Air Zoo. It started with his aircraft, but today the Air Zoo has grown to a fleet of more than 60 display and flying warbirds. He continues to serve on the board of directors of the Air Zoo as its chairman.
On May 19, 2012, Pete was inducted into the Michigan Aviation Hall of Fame for his contributions to the field of aviation.