FRED E. MACHESNEY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP | RVC Foundation Board of Directors

Contact: Mr. Robert Stenstrom, President

Early aviator Fred Machesney fulfilled his dream in 1927 when his private airport opened in Winnebago county near Rockford, Illinois. Through the housing boom of the 1950s, the rural riverside area took on a more urban appearance. In 1974, Machesney sold the property to the JC Penney Company and Machesney Mall was built on the site, but Fred Machesney had set a record that still stands: the oldest privately-owned, continuously operated airport in the nation. The Village of Machesney Park was incorporated in 1981 to honor the spirit of adventure, progress, determination and individuality of Fred Machesney.

OBITUARY
Fred E. Machesney, 79, 3402 Ridge Ave. died at 8:35 a.m. Saturday in his residence after a long illness. Born March 17, 1898 in Annwan, Ill., son of Jay and Minnie Machesney. Lived most of his life in Rockford. Manager and owner of Machesney Airport for 47 years. Served in World War I in the U.S. Army. Was a charter member of the OX-5 Club, charter member of the QB Club, member of Aviation Pioneer Hall of Fame; held commercial pilot license 40(?) and belonged to the Kiwanis American Legion Club No. 31. Survivors include two sisters, Mrs. Helen Edel, Kewanee and Mrs. Della Rose, LaMar, Mo.; and several nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his wife, Mae in 1953. Services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 6 in DELAHANTY FUNERAL HOME, 401 River Lane, with the Rev. Donald Lyons officiating. Burial in Willwood Cemetery. Friends may call from 7 to 9 p.m. Monday in the home. Memorials are asked for the Rock Valley Collegd. Fred Machesney Scholarship award to aviation engineers. —Rockford Register-Star, Sunday, Dec. 4, 1977