Cecil Gene Hendricks

On February 11, 2018 in Auburn, Washington, the Spirit of Cecil Gene Hendricks (born August 25, 1927, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma) joined his deceased parents and a daughter. He shared a passion for aviation with his father as a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association. Cecil began flying in Oklahoma, then soloed after the family moved to Seattle, Washington. He formed the Story Flying Club, which operated for over 50 years. Cecil, with partner Jim Evans, built a Thorp T-18 experimental plane. When Cecil inherited his father’s aircraft, he and his second wife flew the world’s only his-and-hers Thorp T-18s around the U.S. for several years. Cecil performed in air shows and lent a hand to anyone building, restoring, or flying aircraft. He designed and built an ultra-lite, which he hoped to tow when they traveled. He wished to fly over beaches and desert areas. He volunteered with a group to restore ME262 WWII German aircraft. He taught Opportunity Skyway High School students to fabricate aircraft. He acted as host father to three European exchange students. He also owned and operated Hendricks Mfg. machine shop. Cecil is survived by his brother; two sons, two daughters, and their mother; his second wife and her four children; over a dozen grandchildren and great grandchildren; and one great-great granddaughter. Please leave memories of Cecil or condolences for his family in the Guestbook below.