BAGINSKI GARY J

CW4 Gary "Ski" J. Baginski was a VHPA member who died after his tour in Vietnam on 11/30/2024 at the age of 73.9
Big Pine Key, FL
Flight Class 71-7
Date of Birth 01/01/1951
Served in the U.S. Army
Served in Vietnam with 213 ASHC in 71-72
Call sign in Vietnam BLACK CAT 23
This information was provided by Obit

More detail on this person: On 30 NOV 2024, Gary "Ski" Baginski passed away suddenly, at his home in Big Pine Key, FL. Ski was born 1 JAN 1951, and in his late teens, developed a passion for flying, which became a central part of his life's journey. He had a distinguished career as a US Army Warrant Officer Aviator, flying CH-47 Chinooks as a Pilot and an Instructor, during several conflicts. Ski was dedicated to teaching others to fly, and received numerous accolades for his professionalism and skill. During Ski's time in the Army, the family was stationed in Germany for 6 adventurous years. Each summer the family would embark on RV journeys across Europe, venturing into quaint towns and off the beaten path. Ski's prowess in maneuvering the mid-sized RV through Europe's narrow streets was legendary. Following Germany, the family spent 5 blissful years in Hawaii, where Bette and Ski also traveled to countries like Thailand and New Zealand. Ski retired from the Army, after 22 years of service, and he and Bette embarked on nomadic RV journey across the USA, before settling down in the tranquil Florida Keys. The two embraced the joys of boating and fishing, frequently enjoying those activities together. However, Ski missed flying, and was thrilled when he was hired by the Monroe County Sheriff's Department as a deputy and pilot, flying the helicopter for the Trauma Star Air Ambulance Program, and the King Air fixed wing, for the Sheriff and County Commissioners. He retired from the Sheriff's Department in 2020. Ski was preceded in death by his father, Frank (Delores), and his mother, Gladys. He leaves behind, his wife, BetteAnn, son Tony (Rand), and his daughter, Karen (grandsons Davyn and Lucas. He also leaves behind, his siblings, Frank (Mary), John (Paula), Richard (Carole), Ronald and Janice (Doug).

This information was last updated 10/31/2025

Please send additions or corrections to: HQ@vhpa.org VHPA Headquarters

Return to the Helicopter Pilot DAT name list

Return to VHPA web site

Date posted on this site: 02/07/2026