General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) president and CEO, James Viola, issued the following statement regarding the passing of Russell W. “Russ” Meyer Jr., three-time GAMA chairman and chairman emeritus of the Cessna Aircraft Company: “Russ Meyer was a true champion of the general aviation industry. As an integral member of GAMA’s board of directors and three-time chairman, his leadership and vison for the industry helped pave the way for the success and advancements that we see today, from the revitalization of general aviation to the focus on improving safety, advancing technology, strengthening the workforce and serving our communities. His dedication to the general aviation industry was remarkable and undeniable. On behalf of the entire GAMA staff and our membership, I extend our deepest and heartfelt condolences to Russ’s wife Helen, their family and friends, and the entire team at Textron Aviation. Russ leaves behind an incredible legacy that will continue to shape the future of general aviation. GAMA is grateful for Russ’s inspirational industry leadership and his incredible contributions to the general aviation community.”
GAMA board of directors chairman and president and CEO of Textron Aviation, Ron Draper, also issued the following statement: “Russ was a remarkable human being and one of the most respected leaders I have ever known. 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.”
