BOB WALTRIP (1931-2023)

We are heartbroken to learn of Lone Star Flight Museum founder Robert L. Waltrip’s passing. Bob and his wife Claire were the heart and soul of our museum, and as written on the front of our building, this museum is their legacy. Bob’s love of aviation and business savvy built not only a world class business but a world class collection of airplanes and museum.  

In the growth years of SCI, he remarked he was both CEO and Chief Pilot early on. Our B-25 was one of the first airplanes he bought and flew as a company airplane. Several of our planes still have RW on their tails. He was generous in times of our need and terrific counsel when it came to difficult decisions.  

While his direction, help and influence over 32 years sustained us in both Galveston and now at Ellington Airport, we will always remember him as our friend. He was certainly mine and we will miss him.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Waltrip Family and especially grandson Robert and Aimee who were married under the wing of our B-17. They carry Bob’s love of aviation forward as part of the LSFM family.  

Douglas H. Owens, Lt Gen (ret)
President and CEO
Lone Star Flight Museum

Visit our Texas Aviation Hall of Fame to learn more about Bob Waltrip