Zenith Aircraft Builders and Flyers
Online Community of Zenith Builders and Flyers
CHRIS HEINTZ (1938 – 2021)
It is with great regret that we announce the passing of Chris Heintz on April 30th, 2021. Best known in aviation circles as a prolific and talented aircraft designer, aeronautical engineer, innovator, builder, entrepreneur, lecturer and author, Chris has touched the lives of thousands throughout his exceedingly productive professional life.
Chris died peacefully at his home in Southern France where he is survived by Annemarie, his loving wife of 60 years, his five children and a dozen grand-children. As per his wishes, funeral arrangements will be kept simple and private.
Additional details about his prolific life will be shared shortly.
Comment
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Comment by Stan Cooper on May 2, 2021 at 1:16pm
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My sincere condolences to the Heintz family over Chris' loss. He was a visionary and prolific designer who leaves a huge legacy for the EAB community.
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Comment by Dr. Randall Haney on May 2, 2021 at 1:00pm
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My heart felt condolence the the Heintz family.
I first learned of the CH701 in 1996. I had a conversation with Chris about it in 1996. Later I flew Zenith product at the Navy flying club in 1997. They had sent one down for me to test fly with an eye to getting one for a leaseback to the flying club. It was always on my bucket list to build a kit plane but after talking to Chris and flying the plane I knew I had to build one someday. Life got in the way but after two more flights win the CH750 at the Zenith plant in Mexico MO and prompting from my 12 year old grandson I finally bought the kit 2 years ago. Chris designed an excellent plane and has trained his sons and staff well in the art of customer service. It goes without saying that he will be missed by his blood family but the Zenith community is his family as well and we will all miss him greatly. His contribution to the art and love of flying will go down in history as one of the all time great designers. Chris you are CAVU forever. Enjoy.Randall Haney
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Comment by Mark A Phillips on May 2, 2021 at 12:07pm
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He will always fly with me whenever I fly his airplane- peace to all friends and family
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Comment by Chuck Deiterich on May 2, 2021 at 12:06pm
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Clearly a great man and legend. His contributions to aviation are outstanding. My condolences and prayers for his family. Oshkosh 2004.
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Comment by John Waldrip on May 2, 2021 at 11:07am
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My condolences to the family. I missed out on meeting this wonderful talented man.
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Comment by Perry Delano on May 2, 2021 at 10:02am
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Sincere condolences from our family to yours.
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Comment by Robert B. Sackmann on May 2, 2021 at 9:18am
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So sorry to hear this news.
Thoughts and prayers to the family.
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Comment by Jeff Frank on May 2, 2021 at 8:39am
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Have read and referenced his book several times. An amazing man and engineer. He will be missed greatly.
Thoughts and Prayers for the Heintz family.
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Comment by Jason Zwyers on May 2, 2021 at 8:15am
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I was honored to meet Chris in the mid 90's. As I recall his designs using blind rivets were challenged by many in the kit building industry. He defended the designs and was clearly correct. Now look how prolific blind rivets are being used!
Prayers for the family.
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Comment by Tom Hankam on May 2, 2021 at 8:08am
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My thoughts and prayer to his family ! Thank you for great designs Mr H
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