A CNN Alert popped up on my iPhone this afternoon stating: “A stunt plane with a wing walker aboard has crashed at an air show in Dayton, Ohio, according to the FAA.”
My stomach sank and I hoped the wing walker wasn’t who I thought it was. Soon after, I received a phone call confirming the worst. Jane Walker, daughter, mother, friend, fiancee and wing walker, was the one who died in the crash today with pilot Charlie Schwenker. She was 45-years-old. They were performing at the 2013 Vectren Dayton Air Show.
Earlier this year I introduced you to Jane Wicker, one of the featured performers during the Florida International Air Show in Punta Gorda, Fla. Not only did I meet this fearless flyer, I took a ride in her plane, sitting in the same seat she did when performing.
It’s hard knowing what to say when tragedy happens. I extend my deepest condolences to her family and the air show community.
Other than meeting her during the Florida International Air Show and seeing her perform throughout that weekend, I really didn’t know Wicker. I can say her enthusiasm, zest for life and determination for following her passion was inspiring. She had a care-free attitude yet safety was her priority. She knew wing walking was dangerous and took every precaution within her control for a safe performance.
We don’t know how much time we have on this planet. Cut away what drains you and fill your life with passions, desires and happiness that fulfill you. Life is too short.
Rest is peace, Jane Wicker.
