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Russell W. "Russ" Meyer Jr., longtime CEO, chair and chairman emeritus of Cessna Aircraft, died on Wednesday at the age of 93.
Meyer was born in Davenport, Iowa. He was a former Air Force fighter pilot and practiced aviation law before becoming president and CEO of Grumman American Aviation Corp. He was invited to join Cessna Aircraft in 1974 by Dwayne Wallace, Cessna board chair and Clyde Cessna's nephew.
Meyer served as chair and CEO of Cessna, now Textron Aviation, from 1975-2003, according to Aviation Week. He played a key role in the passage of the General Aviation Revitalization Act and oversaw the development and launch of the Citation business jets. His awards include two Collier Trophies, the Wright Brothers Memorial Trophy and induction into the National Aviation Hall of Fame. Following his retirement in 2004, he remained active in the company as its chairman emeritus.
Textron states that Meyer believed in using aviation to help others. He started Wichita's 21st Street Training Program to support workforce development and create career opportunities for underserved residents. He also founded the Special Olympics Airlift in 1987, which is the largest peacetime airlift in the world and relies entirely on volunteer pilots and aircraft. Meyer and his wife, Helen, also spearheaded the construction of a 42,000 sq. ft. Boys andamp; Girls Club facility and campaigned for GraceMed Health Clinics, which provides healthcare to low-income families.
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Last WWII Ace fighter pilot in America dies at 103 years old"Russ was a remarkable human being and one of the most respected leaders I have ever known," said Ron Draper, Textron Aviation president and CEO. "I held Russ in the highest regard, not only for his extraordinary business acumen, but for the integrity, humility and genuine care he showed for people at every stage of his life. He led with conviction, compassion and an unwavering belief that leadership carries a responsibility to serve something greater than oneself. On behalf of the entire Textron Aviation team, I extend my deepest condolences to Russ's family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him. I was truly privileged to know Russ as a colleague, a mentor and a friend."