The Bay Area community is mourning the loss of Niles August Tilenius, a 22-year-old flight instructor, whose aspirations were ascending towards becoming a commercial pilot before he was tragically killed in a small plane crash in Colorado. According to the San Francisco Chronicle, the accident occurred last Sunday near Erie Municipal Airport, taking not only the life of Tilenius but also William Johnston, another young pilot from Florida.
Before Tilenius' untimely demise, he was set to join United Airlines' Aviate program and start training with GoJet Airlines, a United Express carrier, as his family noted in a heartfelt obituary shared on Dropbox. His family also stated that he was "tremendously excited" to begin this new chapter, a sentiment reflected in his passionate pursuit of aviation that ended abruptly and unjustly.
The San Mateo County native started early in the skies, earning his pilot’s license after studying at Case Western Reserve University. Tilenius went on to share his flying fervor by instructing at flight schools in Livermore, Concord, and most recently Erie, Colo. But his contributions soared beyond just teaching: he was also known for volunteering with Angel Flight West, a nonprofit organization providing free air transport for medical patients. His dedication to aviation and helping others was immense and evident in every facet of his life.
In remembrance of his profound impact and the joy he brought to so many, his family has arranged a funeral scheduled for Thursday at Peninsula Temple Beth El in San Mateo. Additionally, a larger memorial celebration is planned for early next year to bring together all those touched by Tilenius' life. Details for attendance and a tribute page in his honor can be found in the family's obituary. Contributions in memory of Niles may be made to charities reflecting his passions, including Angel Flight West, Pied Piper Players, and the Environmental Defense Fund.
