OSHKOSH, WI (WSAU) – One of the founders of EAA AirVenture has died.
Tom Poberenzy, who served as President of the Experimental Aviation Administration from 1989 to 2010, died Monday after a brief illness. He was 75.
His death came on the opening day of this year’s air show in Oshkosh.
Poberenzy also lead the EAA’s first major fundraising campaign, which led to the current museum at Wittman Field in Oshkosh. He’d retired as chairman of the group in 2011. Under his leadership, AirVenture grew into the largest fly-in airshow in the world.
Poberenzy’s flying career included being a long-time member of the Eagle aerobatic team, and as a member of the world-champion U.S. National Aerobatic Team.
Cause of death has not been announced. Funeral arrangements and a memorial service have not been announced.
