Debbie Franceus

Debbie Franceus - Aviatrix - Passed from Breast Cancer January 12, 2023

Debbie Franceus was an aviatrix and a licensed private pilot. She earned her PPL on July 9, 2021 at the age of 63 and at her home airport's Suburban Flight School at KDUH. She did this while working full time as a Clinical Operations Specialist and L.P.N. at Promedica Health Systems Network. Debbie was a practicing Licensed Practical Nurse for over 44 years and enjoyed the love of aviation throughout those years with her pilot husband in their 1962 Beech Debonair.

Debbie's love for aviation ran deep, as she loved all aspects of aviation from expertly flying an aircraft to the camaraderie that resulted before and after with fellow pilots and others who shared the love for aviation. A day did not go by that Debbie did not look skyward to notice a passing aircraft, cloud formation or a beautiful blue sky waiting to be flown through.

Debbie believed that any woman who wished to, young or old, should have the resources to learn to fly. She also believed that any fears that occurred along the journey to becoming a pilot could be conquered through faith; faith in her own abilities and faith in God. Her motto, “Faith over Fear”, was always her go-to during challenging times, whether she was fighting a crosswind, nailing a difficult maneuver or battling breast cancer.

Debbie was an avid supporter and member of The Ninety-Nines, Inc., International Organization of Women Pilots. She attended and sponsored many aviation related events to bring new members into the fold and encourage them to take to the skies. Debbie was exactly what the 99's stand for and she advocated for women in aviation every chance she could by encouraging other women in their journey to fly.

Debbie loved destination flying and her love for aviation was fueled by her desire to go wherever the airplane could take her. One of Debbie's favorite destinations was EAA's AirVenture in Oshkosh, WI. She and husband Mike made the trip year after year, camping next to their plane and she loved the fellowship she shared with the other aviators she would meet each year.

Debbie lost her battle with breast cancer in 2023, but not before learning that aviation is a gift that must be unselfishly shared with others. Her ongoing Aviation Scholarship is representative of that that gift so others can share the love of flying. Through Debbie's generosity, her hope is for others to see the beauty of flight through her eyes and enjoy it for their lifetime.