- Fred Robbins, May 13, 2008

The staff at BestNetPC and Ocean Atlantic Computers will miss you both very much. Thank you for all you have given us.

On Saturday morning, while practicing at their home airport in Flagler County, FL, Montaine and Daniel where killed in a mid air collision .

The Staff at BestNetPC and Ocean Atlantic Computers in Palm Coast Florida will miss you both. Thank you for the entertainment and the smiles.

I will miss this Class A Act.

So sorry to hear of the great loss of Montaine and Daniel. A great loss for aviation, the airshow industry and especially for friends and fellow performers.

It is with great sadness I heard reported the passing
of an era. I have seen Daniel and Montaine perform at
a number of air shows all over the country. Never have
I seen such precision and sheer love of flight. Time
and time again, inspired by these two artists, I and
other pilots like me have been shown flight as art,
perhaps for the first time. It is sad to know the likes
of which will not be seen again.

Daniel and Montaine shall be welcomed by the angels on
high as two of their own.........

I and my colleagues at the Kennedy Space Center wish
to express our deepest sympathy all the family and friends
of Daniel and Montaine.

Darrel F. McMillan
Merritt Island, Florida

Daniel and Montaine were two of the most gracious and caring people that anyone would ever want to meet. Consumate professionals all the way, they gave us their time, their energy, and so much to enjoy and remember. We are fortunate to have been able to share some time with them. They and their families are in our prayers.

Their aerial ballet will always be remembered. Their pleasant manner and friendship will stay with forever. They passed the love of aviation along to so many.

Daniel and Montaine, Your graceful flying was an inspiration to all. Thank you for expressing the wonder of flight with your wings.

Fond Memories.

Since I was one of your first students over 25 years ago
and my family became yours, you brought us the love of
flight and love itself. Oh, how it hurts. Our prayers
are lifted for all affected.

Having known Daniel & Montaine since their early years in the U.S. we are greatly saddened
by their passing. As is often the case, we didn't express our love for them often enough.
I'm not quite sure how to say this, so I'll just blurt it out. Their love affair with each
other and aviation was unique and it spilled out on many of us. I don't think that either
could have faced the thought of life without the other. In that light, having gone into
eternity together and doing something that they loved was probably the way they would have
had it happen. They leave a hole in our lives for now, but we hope to see them again in
the not too distant future.

Danny & Montaine - WE LOVE YOU AND WILL MISS YOU

Fred & Ruth Willson

I remember when Daniel, and Montaine each came to America ... marveled at their early performances ... fought to get them on the waiver at Reading when the GADO Monitor arbitrarily said, "No" ... thrilled at their grace and their "oneness" both in the air and on the ground ... and reeled at the sudden exit Fate handed down. Nour and I have tempted that same Fate many a time as pilot and wingwalker in years gone by. Fly high little sparrows! Fly high! - Ron David

Hi I am Shane. My mother worked at the Flagler Airport.
I just want to say that they were great people and Many
people will miss you. And they loved to fly. That is all
they talked about around the airport. I just want to say
My your heart never leave the air.

To the family, friends, and other loved ones of the "French Connection." In aviation, many come and go, but few leave a permanent contrail in the skies. Rarely does the aviation community have the priviledge to witness such amazing talent as that which Daniel and Montaine demonstrated again and again, whether sky high or moving about the Earth's surface. No one truly knows the impact they may have on anothers life until they are gone. On behalf of my fellow aviators at Embry-Riddle and around the world, please accept my deepest condolances. A gap has been left which will never again be filled. After touching the face of God for so long, these two incredible people are now free to soar forever. You are in our prayers, and I look forward to sharing the skies with you again someday.

Having seen them perform (like millions of others) at many airshows over the years, this news was shocking. However, there is something in this tragedy we should all think about.

Fundamentally, flight isn't about the latest cool fighter jet, or the cost of avgas, or who has the lowest fares. Simply put, it's about freedom and beauty. Whether you are an active pilot or just like to watch birds soaring at the beach, the beauty of flight touches us in ways indescribable. Watching aerobatic performances lets us, for a little while at least, share in that beauty even while we are physically on the ground.

Daniel and Montaine took it one step further in that they shared this unique freedom first with each other and then with everyone they performed for. The world feels a little bit sadder and emptier today because of their absence - but on the whole, the entire world is a more beautiful place for what they brought to us all for so many years. You can't ask for too much more than that.

Our thoughts are with their loved ones... yet in the midst of the sadness, rejoice that they lived more fully than many ever know possible!!

-Merlin

In Reply to: French Connection posted by Thermals on May 27, 2000 at 18:31:25:

They will be sadly missed at Oshkosh. Their grace and enthusiasm were an inspiration to anyone involved in aviation. They and their loved ones are in our prayers.

Death is nothing at all; we have just slipped away into the next room. Whatever we were to each other, that we are still.
Call us by our old familiar names; speak to us in the easy way you always used. Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes we enjoyed together.
Play, smile, think of us, pray for us.
Let our name be ever the household word it always was. Let it be spoken without effort, without the ghost of a shadow on it.
Life means all that it ever meant. It is the same as it ever was. There is absolutely unbroken continuity. What is this death but an unfortunate accident?
Why should we be out of mind because we are out of sight? We are waiting for you, for an interval, somewhere very near, just around the corner.

It was with great sadness that I heard of the passing of Daniel and Montaigne. May they fly, forever joyously, in heaven.

Montaine and Daniel are now ready to perform the next act: the one in our memories.
Whoever had the privilege of meeting them will never forget their passion for aviation and the way they teached.
I will miss you.

I can barely believe that such a thing is possible... that two such extraordinary people could leave us so soon. The world is a greater place for having had them in it... and a sadder place now that they have left it FAR too soon.
Some of the most fun I have ever had was shooting air-to-air whilst canopy to canopy with this gifted pair... swapping horizons with abandon and watching the world tumble about us. I thank them both for that gift.
I loved them greatly and will miss them tremendously. God bless them...

As much as I love this sport, it sure can sting sometimes. Montaine was the first aerobatic pilot I ever met. Back in college, I knocked on their door unannounced, as a complete stranger. I explained how I had fallen in love with the CAP-10 after an airshow, and wanted to design a model of it. She and their chief instructor, Claude, went out of their way to help me out, photocopying plans, digging up various other info, and even letting me crawl all around their airshow airplanes, unsupervised, with my pad, ruler and camera. They always treated me with respect and friendship, even stopping to welcome me when I showed up at their contest later that year (which scored me some big-time points with the friends I flew out there with...).

Such a wonderful introduction to aerobatics. Such a tragic and painful loss. I'll miss her. I'm sorry that I never got to know Daniel. Fly safe, folks. The laws of physics are unforgiving.

Until we meet again,
Steve

I just saw on the news. "husband and wife team dies"
and I knew it had to be the "French Connection" who I saw
at the Cleveland airshow in 1995. I got out my photo album
and found I'd snapped two great photos of them in action
capturing the Blue Angel planes on the ground. They were
great and I recall thinking at the time how dangerous it must
be. At least they died doing what they loved.

Montaine and Daniel,
Thank you for your help and friendship. You will be missed by all of your fans.
Swift N78071

I saw the French Connection three times in Scranton PA.They were scheduled to be here in two weeks again-there next performance. You guys did a great show and will surely be missed by me. I had the opportunity to meet them and they are truely unforgettable. You will never be forgotten.

Your style and grace in the air were a reflection of who you were on the ground. We will miss you. Aloha.

My name is Nickolas and I am a very big French Connection fan. I saw Daniel and Montaine here in my hometown of Schenectady, New York in 1985 and 1990 and they were FANTASTIC. I was shocked when I went to their website and learned that they were killed yesterday morning. But, my heart and prayers go out to their families.

p.s. Daniel and Montaine I will never stop remembering you. You guys are always my favorite aerobatic performers. Me and my parents love you so much and see you guys in heaven.

The best....doing what they loved to do.

The best couple pilots were great peolple that made me honored by meeting them. You will still fly in my memory.

In Reply to: French Connection posted by Nancy Bob Talarczyk on May 28, 2000 at 07:37:49:

: The best....doing what they loved to do.

You now can soar forever.

Their kindnesses will be missed.

I'm very sorry for the loss of Daniel and Montaine.

They will be remembered for their grand contribution in aerobatics and the joy and inspiration they brought to everyone in each show they performed and each moment shared in their lives.

My thoughts and prayers are with them, their friends and family.

To Daniel and Montaine~
I stood on the beach at Ormond By-the-Sea and watched one of your planes fly down the coast just two or three days ago. The joy of your flying reached me all the way down to the sand. I thrilled at the other-worldly freedom you seemed to radiate while still aching in my heart from the grief of losing my uncle, Dodgie Stockmar, in a plane crash in Atlanta one year and nine days ago. Flying had been his whole life for over 50 years, and it all came to an end when a cable broke on the plane he was checking out with a friend.
My aunt wrote this poem that seems to mirror the way your close friends talk about your flying and what you both meant to them. Please look up my uncle over there. He flew down here regularly, and was well known, so you may already know him. He's a great guy, and I know you will all love flying without the limiting bonds of this little planet.
God Speed,
Kate Beall

In Loving Memory of Dodgie Stockmar
~tragically killed May 19, 1999~

Your life on earth was filled with love,
No thought of wealth or race.
Your reward? A runway paved of gold
With zoning all in place.

I can see you flying your new plane
Where skys are always blue,
With tail winds gently blowing-clear!
Dodgie's coming through.

The angels must be filled with awe
To witness how you fly;
Their halos waver just a bit
As you come rolling by.

The calls keep coming daily
To see how you're doing, dear.
They pause and utter disbelief
When I tell them you're not here.

That you're living in a better place
Free from pain, grief, and strife,
And I'm thankful to the Lord above
For bringing you into my life.

~Your loving wife,
Faye Stockmar

I've seen Daniel and Montaine perform countless times at Sussex NJ airshows and elsewhere. This is truly a loss to me and the aviation community.

I've often thought abut taking a aerobatic lesson or two but regrettably,never did.

My deepest sympathies to their families.
Jim

Great people,in and out of the sky.

Bob and Nancy Sie

Both were great people in and out of the sky.

Bob and Nancy Siegel

My sympathy in this tradgey. I flew with Montaine in the 70s in upstate New York. The airport was Sky Acers
I remember we got in to fly and strapped up and she forgot the key. I was new and she had a breakfast of eggs and garlic and by the time I got down I didn't feel very well. The joy of flying and love of life will not be forgotten. I'd been sorry that I lost track of this team and sorrier now.
Regina Leibowitz, Port Orange, Florida

Our deepest sympathies to the familes of Montaine Mallet and Danile Heligoin. It is such a shock to hear the news that two people who truly had the love of flight will no longer be with us.

Jack and Jean Hardy and the crew from Littlebrook Airpark

In Reply to: Gone but never forgotten posted by Gerry Bernadette Snider on May 28, 2000 at 08:29:54:

Sadness and good memories

Montaine:
Daniel:

F-GFNFE CAP 10 s/n 22 took off today from LFLP (Annecy) at 11:30 LT and flew to Carreau d'Arrache where you loved to ski. Half toll to inverted and a half roll back. For you.

You were my boss, my family, my connection to things I love most. Flying upside down and Marianne , my wife.

Godspeed.

Adam

This airshow business is an incredibly small fraternity...everybody knows everybody else. But there are those who truly stand out. Montaine and Danny were prime among those standouts. Not only were they consumate performers, they were the ultimate friends. As announcers, we enjoyed working with them because of their professionalism and showmanship. We valued their input in helping us to do our job better. As friends, they were the source of much good humor and great times. Montaine was a guiding light behind the MTOFC (Married To The Old Farts Club), an organization for air show performers who have a spouse at least 10-years older than them. Nancy is a member of that group and we both recall the great humor that Montaine brought to their annual proceedings at the ICAS convention. It is sad to lose such great friends and performers. The only compensation is that the "went West" together, doing that which they loved almost more than they loved each other. Godspeed, Danny and Montaine...we are all the richer for having known you.

Bill & Nancy Lowe
Big Mouth Productions
Rochester, NY

With Greatest Sympathy

I'm twelve years old and am devastated.
I'd always known them and they were like family to me.
They always treated me with love and kindness that
I will never forget. I miss them so much. I pray for
everyone that knew them to help us in this time of need.

I wish to express my deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Daniel and Montaine.

It is with great sorrow that I heard the reports of the passing of Daniel & Montaine. I have seen the French Connection perform at a number of air shows. They had one of the most precise and graceful routines. You could tell by their performance that they enjoyed what they did.

It is sad to know this loving couple and aerobatic act will not be enjoyed by us again.

Lou Lafond
Osteen, Florida

You made our Connection the best.

Montaine& Daniel
Ihr beide habt die posie mit der Fliegerei verbunden und werdet nie vergessen sein.
Herzliches Beileid an die Familie und Freunde der beiden wundervollen Freunde und Piloten.

Heinz peier

You made our Connection the best.

Elaine and I wish to express our sadness over the passing of the french connection. We were honored to see them perform on many occassions and held them in great esteem. The world has lost a great pair.

We are saddened to hear of their accident. We first saw them in flying shows in at the Sussex Airport in Wantage,New Jersey back in 1983. God be with you.

The airshow fraternity is relatively small...everyone knows everyone else at least by face and name. But there are those who stand out and Danny and Montaine were such friends for us. Consumate performers and professionals, they always came to entertain. On a personal level, they were always ready to help other performers, including announcers, to do a better job. Montaine always made it a point to sit down before each show and go over any changes in the routine and what they hoped the announcer would do or say during their show. Danny was always ready to talk at length about the aircraft and aerobatics. Even more personally, we remember the fun times we've had with them at so many airshow sites. Montaine was the guiding light behind "MTOFC", Married To The Old Farts Club. Membership was limited to those in the airshow business whose spouse was at least 10-years older. This group of mostly women (Jimmy Franklin the only male member) meets each year at the annual ICAS Convention, primarily to consumer vast quantities of champagne! Montaine brought great humor and downright craziness to those sessions, of which Nancy was proud to be a part. If there is any consolation to be taken from this tragic passing of two such dear friends, it is the knowledge that they "went West" as a couple, doing the things they loved almost more than they loved each other. Godspeed, Danny and Montaine...you will be sorely missed but never forgotten.

Bill & Nancy Lowe
Big Mouth Productions
Rochester, NY

Montaine and Daniel,
everyone is waiting for you at your jubilee show in june, at home, in Aubigny, France.
you were about to quit airshows to play an active part in cap's development in America.
during all these years you have been flying caps in your unique, fair, elegant, simple way.
you vanish together to our eyes but in our hearts you inspire our action.
we miss you terribly.

Guy Pellissier and Dominique Roland.
Cap Aviation

Montaine and Daniel were without a doubt the best dual formation act in the world, bar none. They were generous and selfless during their (free) perfomances at Sun 'n Fun that helped promote all facets of aviation.

Their flight school provided a wealth of knowledge, experience and discipline that was carried away by hundreds of enriched pilots.

I am proud to have been a fellow performer and most of all among their huge family of friends.

I will treasure the memories as will the whole world.

Ron

Thank you for the memories and awe.

In Reply to: Sympathy to friends of Montaine and Daniel posted by Kimberly Sanders on May 27, 2000 at 18:36:55:

: So sorry to hear of the great loss of Montaine and Daniel. A great loss for aviation, the airshow industry and especially for friends and fellow performers.

We just lost a beautiful couple and they will be sorrily missed. I will miss there beautiful showes. They flew so beautifully together, we will always remember this.
God Bless and God Speed
Cal Wagner

In Reply to: Thanks posted by Mark Roberts on May 28, 2000 at 10:07:15:

Styles Aviation, Inc. & the folks of Sky Acres Airport(44n)where the French Connection started back in the 70's would like send their condolensces. Daniel & Montaine will be missed by all up north!

Time is short, but memories and friendship are everlasting. Thanks for all three.

Craig & Bonnie Fitzsimmons

They were true professionals and died doing what they loved the most.

They will be missed by all who knew and saw them.

Back in 1989, Daniel game me a ride in his CAP10, it was one of the best experiences of my life, and I will never forget it. From his inspiration, I have pursued to get my pilots license. Thanks for the memories, you will always be remembered by all.

Chris Fitzsimmons

This is a very sad day, we feel like a member of our own family has been taken.

A la famille

Nos mots n'apaiseront pas votre chagrin, nous partageons votre peine. Nous ne les oublirons jamais et ils seront toujours pres de nous dans notre coeur.

God bless you all. Dieu vous garde

Sincerement,

Jean, Francoise, Jessica and the staff at La Gourmandise

Daniel and Montaine: you were the best of the best. We shall miss you and will keep you always in our thoughts and hearts. Thanks for all the good times we had together. Au revoir, mes amis!

Lynne and Eric Doten

I was fortunate enough to fly a press hop with The French Connection in 1992. The couple was performing at a small town airshow in Gallatin, Tenn., just north of Nashville. In addition to being editor of the local paper covering the show, I was also a member of the airshow staff in charge of publicity. My unique position allowed me to spend a considerable amount of time with Montaine and Danielle for a full week. I have never met more cordial, accommodating people in my life. Their love of the fans was astounding, and they always had time for children. My ride with them was one I will never forget, as it included the team's standard maneuvers that all would see that weekend and for years around the world. I was impressed by their professionalism and abilities as we went through the formation loop, hammerhead stall, snap rolls, barrel rolls, and the trademark mirror image. My prayers and best wishes go out to all who were close to the couple, and look forward to seeing them in a better place. Thanks to the French Connection for the fond memories they left me.

En souvenir d'un excellent sejour a OSKOSKH en 98 avec Francois et Cyrille BERNARD, nous avions eu le bonheur de partager leur passion et des moments de grand bonheur.

Nos plus profondes condoleances a leurs familles.

Bernard et Josette DAVAL

We will miss you both Daniel and Montaine.

We will never forget you ..
We will never forget the excitement Montaine brought to every conversation about aerobatics, about safety, about people, and their fans, and about all of life.

In Reply to: Condoleances posted by Bernard et Josette DAVAL on May 28, 2000 at 10:38:57:

: En souvenir d'un excellent sejour a OSKOSKH en 98 avec Francois et Cyrille BERNARD, nous avions eu le bonheur de partager leur passion et des moments de grand bonheur.

: Nos plus profondes condoleances a leurs familles.

: Bernard et Josette DAVAL

I am so very sorry to hear of the loss of these wonderful people. I have seen them perform many times and always look forward to thier wonderful show. I was shocked and saddened to learn of the accident. My heart goes out to all of their friends and family.
I am grateful to have had the privilege of seeing them perform.

We will miss you

Deepest sympothies and condolences. My sons and I have watched their flying for many years. We will miss them.
Barry

In Reply to: We will never forget you.. posted by Harley Carnes on May 28, 2000 at 10:47:56:

: We will never forget you ..
: We will never forget the excitement Montaine brought to every conversation about aerobatics, about safety, about people, and their fans, and about all of life.
We will never forget the quiet intensity of Daniel, his ready smile, and his obvious concern for precision and for safety.
We will never forget that all of us who came within their sphere came to feel that they were our friends.

Like many, many people - my first aerobatic instruction came at their school. Claude was my instructor, and Montaine taught me from time to time. I quoted one of her admonitions regarding spins and spin training to a potential student only yesterday. Here in the Northeast, where Daniel and Montaine opened their school at POU - Duchess County Airport - many, many pilots were touched by them, made better by them, and inspired by them.
I had the honor of helping Larry Rutt announce their airshow at this year's Sun N Fun appearance. At the morning briefings, Montaine sat beside me, offering insights and advice. She and Daniel were among the very, very few performers who placed their airplanes at "plastic corner" where fans could come close afterward for conversation, autograph signing and picture taking.
They lived the aerobatic dream. They lived and breathed it, teaching it - and flying for millions of appreciative fans. They were the greatest examples of what a man and woman could be for each other, in the air and on the ground.
We will never forget our friends, Daniel Heligoin and Montaine Mallet. Go with God.

Deepest sympothies and condolences. My sons and I have watched their flying for many years. We will miss them.
Barry

The performance of The French Connection with its grace and technical skills will be missed saddly missed from airshows but not from our memory. They were a one of a kind perfomance team.

"To laugh often and much; To win the respect of intelligent people and affection of children; To earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; To appreciate beauty, To find the best in others; To leave the world a bit better, whether by a healty child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived.
This......is to have succeeded" - R. Emerson

Montaine and Daniel, As teachers; As performers, and as friends you are remembered-Jim Edsall; Florida Tech Aerobatic Instructor

In Reply to: heartfelt condolences to family and friends of Montaine and Daniel. posted by Barry D.Smith on May 28, 2000 at 11:00:08:

They not only gave to the world their magnificent airshow, but gave so much of themselves to teaching. They were always willing to take time out of their busy schedules to do forums at Sun'n Fun and talk to general aviation pilots about becoming safer pilots with some aerobatic training and stall-spin training. It was important to them to give back to a sport they so loved. They will NEVER be forgotten. We have lost two friends, but they left us with so much.
May the Peace of their memories be with their family and many friends.
Jim and Jean Taylor

Your compassion, generosity, and professionalism is something the industry and fans will miss. You have always made time to talk to the many people that were lucky enough to see you perform. We can all look back to your performances and smile. We will miss you both.
Alan

Thank you for the the memories, encouragement and my first snap roll. Your kindness and friendship will be missed.

In Reply to: heartfelt condolences to family and friends of Montaine and Daniel. posted by Barry D.Smith on May 28, 2000 at 11:00:08:

They not only gave to the world their magnificent airshow, but gave so much of themselves to teaching. They were always willing to take time out of their busy schedules to do forums at Sun'n Fun and talk to general aviation pilots about becoming safer pilots with some aerobatic training and stall-spin training. It was important to them to give back to a sport they so loved. They will NEVER be forgotten. We have lost two friends, but they left us with so much.
May the Peace of their memories be with their family and many friends.
Jim and Jean Taylor

OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO ALL YOUR FRIENDS ANDFAMILY

One of Sussex Airhows Most Enjoyed Spectators Performers, and long time personal friends,
will be missed!

I had the opportunity to meet Montaine and Daniel at Willow Grove in 1998. They were some of the nicest people I've met. My heartfelt condolences go out to the team, their families, and to the entire airshow community. Their demonstration was a one-of-a-kind performance that was definitely a crowd-pleaser in 1998. We will miss you.

Steven Holzinger
http://www.geocities.com/usair1489

Our dear friends Montaine & Daniel, what a privelge it has been to be a part of your life. Our hearts are so heavy and our sorrow so deep. We have spent many years together as friends, our families as well. Flagler Beach will be a very dull place without you both. You would be so pleased with the outpouring of love and the tribulations you are so deserving of. We have spent many special moments together, every birthday and anniversary, your celebration this year at becoming USA citizens! and special moments at your family house in Les Carroz.... Words cannot express our grief or our loss. We are doing the best we can to handle things for you here and we are and will continue to be a part of each others lives through our families. God Bless you Madeline & Jacques, your loss is the worlds loss. You will never be forgotten.
Love, Tony, Carolyn & Christopher Marlow

We will always remember our many years together at airshows and the comraderie we shared. Our deepest sympathies
The Bordeleau Family
Bill & Dar
Michele & David Wurst
Jackie & Harry Hughes
Cherie Bordeleau
Continental Air Show Productions

The aviation world is saddened by the loss of 2 true professionals who
will not be forgotten. Godspeed The French Connection!

BEST OF THE BEST

The news of their death saddens me greatly, but I have some consolation in knowing they are still together, and probably still soaring.

I had not seen the couple in many years, but when I was a child I would see them yearly, and they always had the warmest cuddles and broadest smiles to share with me.

I grew up with the French Connection & Leo Loudenslager as heroes. Thanks to all of them, wherever they may be, for giving me inspiration.

I can't belive I won't hear you on the radio,while flying in the Florida skys anymore. I saw you first at Oshkosh about 1982 and it seem that you are at almost every airshow. I have a picture of you and my kids, it is real special to us. Thanks for taking time to talk to me and my family at air shows. It was a privilage to have known you. The sudden accident was a shock.

Bebe Teichman

When I learned of the loss of Montaine and Daniel
it filled me with great shock and sadness.

They were fine performers but, more importantly,
friends and truly fine people.

Our association when they represented
Northstar Avionics was one that made me proud to have
such a professional and capable team carrying our logo.

My sincere sympathy to all their family and friends.

They will be missed

Charlie Malaquias

I can't belive I won't hear you on the radio,while flying in the Florida skys anymore. I saw you first at Oshkosh about 1982 and it seem that you are at almost every airshow. I have a picture of you and my kids, it is real special to us. Thanks for taking time to talk to me and my family at air shows. It was a privilage to have known you. The sudden accident was a shock.

Bebe Teichman

We will not forget you.

Daniel and Montaine were gential people with warm hearts. They always made you feel welcomed. Montaine and Daniel will be greatly missed.

The Fiorito's
Cincinnati, Ohio

You both always showed the perfect example of perfect partners...your lessons of life and flying will always be charished by two of your dedicated "students".
Always,

Janeen and Dennis Kochan

Having known Danny and Montaine for twenty + years we
can only echo the many feelings of love expressed in
these messages and thank those that have posted them.

Being a part of the airshow "family" has been an honor
for us for many years. During those years we have bereaved the way too many of our friends that have "gone west" way too early in their lives. We miss them all greatly with a deep hole in our hearts.

In searching for some kind of relief in this time of
sorrow I can only picture one thing... Right now,
Montaine and Danny are sitting on a cloud with "Uncle Bobby", Leo, Charlie, Sonny & Randy and the many friends that have gone before them, including Uncle Dodgie. They are all having a cold Bud-lite and are watching us all, ready to lend a hand lest we get too
close to the edge. We miss you our friends...

I AM OF COURSE SHOCKED AT JUST HEARING OF THE LOSS OF THESE ULTRA TALENTED PERFORMERS. AS A VIDEOGRAPHER I HAD SEVERAL INTERVIEWS WITH THEM SINCE 1989 AND SO MUCH FOOTAGE OF THEIR UNIQUE CANOPY TO CANOPY ROUTINE. THEY WERE SO WARM AND ALWAYS MADE YOU FEEL COMFORTABLE
WHEN INTERVIEWING THEM. WE ALL SAW THE LOVE AFFAIR, AND THE ULTRA TRUST IN THEIR ROUTINE, THEY WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. TRULY STARS OF THE AIRSHOW WHEREVER THEY PERFORMED.
JUDSON

With a heavy heart and deep sympathy to family and friends I fondly remember my friendship with Daniel and Montaine. Through several airshows at Cecil Field, to working together during their annual trips to Sun 'n Fun, those late night sessions at ICAS and my all too infrequent trips to visit them at Flagler, they will be missed.

The air show industry and aviation in general has lost two great professionals.

I AM OF COURSE SHOCKED AT JUST HEARING OF THE LOSS OF THESE ULTRA TALENTED PERFORMERS. AS A VIDEOGRAPHER I HAD SEVERAL INTERVIEWS WITH THEM SINCE 1989 AND SO MUCH FOOTAGE OF THEIR UNIQUE CANOPY TO CANOPY ROUTINE. THEY WERE SO WARM AND ALWAYS MADE YOU FEEL COMFORTABLE
WHEN INTERVIEWING THEM. WE ALL SAW THE LOVE AFFAIR, AND THE ULTRA TRUST IN THEIR ROUTINE, THEY WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. TRULY STARS OF THE AIRSHOW WHEREVER THEY PERFORMED.
JUDSON

My name is Moni K, at Washington DC, originally from Winnipeg, Canada. I am an air show fan and loved watching aerobatics, especially these two people we lost so suddenly. With deep regrets, I offer my condolences to Daniel and Montaine's loved ones and their beloved friends and the aviaton community. We miss the finest, talented aviators who left us, when they died doing what they love. May Lord Bless them.
Moni

My family KRISTIE, RICHARD & KAYCIE ,& CLEAR PROP INC SEND HEARTFELT CONDOLENCES & SYMPATHY

It was always a joy and a privilege to see these two superbly talented people display their mastery of the air in the machines they knew as well as themselves. It was no less special to know them as the nice, unassuming people they always were at Sky Acres Airport back in the 70s. Nous disons seulement au Montaine et Daniel, pas "Goodby", mais "Au revoir."

How can one begin to say thank you for all you’ve given us - your sincere friendship and guidance, laughter and love of flight, your professionalism and skill, what a perfect balance. What wonderful people, mentors and true friends. You two were wonderful examples of just how to live ones’ life to the fullest. Thank you for touching my life, for providing so many precious memories and for being my friends. You will never be forgotten, rather always remembered fondly – until we meet again.

We have known them since they first came to the states.
They flew the closest formation of all formation pilots.
To bad we took for granted. We will miss you very much.

Montaine and Daniel, we will miss you.

With Love
John and Leslie Lillberg

Two nice people. Great Performers. "Hello Daniel." As I would see him rushing in to buy his groceries. To ordinary people, he was just another shopper, un-assuming in everyway. A joy to talk to, both he and Montaine. Flagler Airport will not be the same without them. The World of Aviation weeps for them, and their family.

Summoned Home To Serve The Lord..May 27th, 2000

Montaine and Daniel, we will miss you.

With Love
John and Leslie Lillberg

The most impressive thing I have ever seen in aviation was The French Connection formation snap roll. They did it less than 10 feet apart. They never changed heading, just a true snap in TIGHT formation. I could never be more impressed with someone's flying skills. We have lost the 2 best formation pilots ever.
They will be missed.
Mike Skaggs

After losing a very dear friend of mine in a mid-air
collision just only last December in Deland, FL., I can
sypmathize with the deep sense of loss and unbelievable
emptiness that this tragedy brings to their family,
their friends and the aviation world. I have seen
them perform and I watched them intently with great
admiration and in complete awe their spectacular flying
abilities. I never knew Montaine Mallet and Daniel
Heligoin personally, but my heart aches as if I had.
I send my sincerest and deepest condolences and
sympathy to their loved ones and friends. They died
together, doing what they loved most in this world.
For that, we can be grateful. It would have been
more tragic for them if one had been left behind. They
now have exchanged their earthly silver wings made of
metal for their heavenly wings of gold that will keep
them safe and in Gods loving arms forever.

In Reply to: Montaine and Daniel posted by Jerry & Trudy Burdick on May 28, 2000 at 13:46:16:

: The voids in the skies of future airshows will be felt world wide but your love of flying for our enjoyment will be in our hearts
forever.God speed

I taught for them for two years, from Sept '91 until October '93...

My wife and I were married on the ramp at Mudry exactly seven years ago:27 May 1993. We honeymooned at the Keystone contest that weekend.

It was not always easy, but that was because they cared so deeply. I learned so much, I was truly blessed to be so fortunate. They gave so much, making sure the school continued long after their Airshow business was more than succesful enough. They didn't have to-but they believed in giving back to the community they loved so much.

We can never fully realise their impact on our community-Daniel had been training pilots for well over 40 years, including his Air Force years. Montaine's whole adult life was spent caring for Daniel,the business, the Instructors, the Students, and anyone else who came into range. How many lives have they inspired, through their mind-boggling performances, through their students and instructors, who in turn pass on the teaching of the masters to countless generations to follow.

Claude Chanclu, the instructor who worked for them for SEVEN years before me, once told me something during one of our last flights before he left. He said that I was not in for an easy time, as they could be very demanding at times, but If I hung in there I would learn and experience more than I could ever hope to anywhere else.

He couldn't have been more right...

God bless and keep them, his gain is definitely our loss.

Mike

So sorry to have read the IAC post of the fatal crash.
They proejcted a true professional image to our sport. Their performances as a team was extraordinary.
Their contribution to the sport of aerobatics will be
not be forgotten.
My sympathy to those at Mudry Aviation, family and friends.
Linda Hamer
IAC President Emeritus

Daniel and Montaine, thank you so much for the lessons. I have studied many subjects, so consider myself a good judge of teachers. The best ones do not flaunt their expertise, communicate their joy in what they do, and -- this applied to me -- never let their less talented students feel inadequate or unappreciated.

It's been more than ten years since we flew together. I remember it as if it were yesterday, and always will.

-Joseph Renfield

I am stricken with sadness over this loss of two aerobatic flyers of great skill. We do a dangerous thing but we do it with a joy that those multitudes of earth-bound mortals never will know. To die doing what we love is sad but not so sad as to die never having done it. For these two pilots of consumate skill to die doing what they loved is somehow fitting, but it should be a dire warning to those of us with lesser skills. We best honor them by remembering their lives and the joy they brought to many others, but we can also honor them by being careful out there.

Daniel et Montaine,

Vous étiez mes amis et vous le serez toujours dans mon coeur ; votre joie de vivre était présente dans tous les moments.
Je suis si triste à la pensée de ne plus vous voir ni vous entendre.
Sincères condoléances à la famille.
Love, Françoise.

Let us not take for granted those good things bestowed
upon us, the fledglings of earthly life that we are.
They helped me earn my wings at an age much later in
life than I had wished, a life-long, childhood dream,
a chapter of my life...

..."for we remain weak under the wings of their eternal
strength for which the earthern bound clouds have parted to allow their eternal passage...God speed!"

In sympathy, Flagler County Commissioner Jim Darby.

My sincerest condolences to the family, our worldwide aviation community and to the loved ones of Montaine Mallet and Daniel Heligoin.

Trudi, Richard, Kristie, Kacie, CLEAR PROP send heartfelt odolences and sympathy

Their niche is among us...Flagler County Airport, USA,
Home of the French Connection, Montaine Mallet and
Daniel Heligoin.

May humanity find mutual love and admiration among the
French and American nations, and all the world, in
memory of their passing...they touched the world of us
all in so many different ways.

Jim Darby, Chairman, Flagler County Board of County
Commissioners, Florida, USA.

Aerial ballets in the sky, red, white, blue trails
streaking by;

Anthem music fills the air,

Such a sight to see them there, flying high in the sky.

Daniel and Montaine, you will be missed.

Condolences to the family.

I cry as I write this.I remember the first time I met them,and have loved their way ever since.True airshow people.The flying/airshow world suffers over this tragic loss.

Montaine and Daniel, you will be sorely missed by a brokenhearted friend. Priscilla

i've seen the french connection in shows and all i can say is "poetry in motion".their death saddens us all.

Comme deux oiseaux magnifiques
Ils ont volé ensemble toute leurs vies
avec un merveilleux élan
et un amour des cieux divins
et ensemble leurs corps sont tombés
mais certainement leurs âmes volent encore
là haut pour toute l'éternité
nous l'espérons de tout nos coeurs...
BON VOYAGE !
Tous les membres du Cercle Français de Pqlm Coast

Sympathy to you all dear American friends ,who shared their life, their job, their passion in this great country of aircratf.Montaine and Daniel flew over the States in all directions and they really loved this country which was theirs by now.We don't know you but whoever or whereever you are you will miss them as we will do

Auguste,Michel,Helene,Martine,Gylda Mudry

A sad good-bye today to an extraordinary couple who inspired us and challenged us with their grace and skill. Our sympathies to Montaine and Daniel's family and friends. From Lauren Lee and T. J. Lilliman, another flying couple, the Canadian Bushhawks Liaison Squadron. We were privileged to work with Montaine and Daniel, and will always treasure the memory of the moments we shared.

You taught me so much. You will be missed. We have lost so much. From now on it will always be CAVU!

Sympathy to you all dear American friends who shared their life, their job, their passion in this great country of aircraft. Montaine and Daniel flew over the States in all directions and they really loved this country which was theirs by now. We don't know you but whoever or whereever you are you will miss them as we will do.

Auguste,Michel,Helene,Martine,Gylda Mudryl

Though I did not know them well or long, Montaine and Daniel provided me the opportunity to experience the thrill of aerobatics. Montaine was a very serious and dedicated pilot who thrived on flying. I had tried to schedule lessons this weekend to further my aerobatic experience and show Montaine I wasn't always going to be a 'dead-footed Cessna pilot'. When I dip a wing on takeoff, it will be in memory of Montaine and Daniel.

sheer artistry, grace, showmanship, dedication.. Watching the fuid motion of true aerobatics as they made music together. We shall all miss them, but remembrance is sweet..

I was lucky enough to meet Montaine and Daniel at Oshkosh. They were the two nicest people anyone would want to meet. They were warm and friendly and easy to talk to. Aviation has lost two GREAT friends.

I WILL MISS MY GOOD FRIENDS. THE LOSS WILL BE GREAT TO THE AIRSHOW INDUSTRY.... AND TO ALL THEIR FRIENDS. NO WORDS CAN SHOW THE PAIN.

Great lasting memories.

We are shocked and saddened at the loss of Daniel and Montaine. They flew at our airshow last month and we had the pleasure of meeting them. They are no doubt two of the nicest people one could meet. Aviation has suffered a great loss. The legacy they have achieved will live on within all of us.

With Sincerest Sympathy,
Athens-Ben Epps Airport
Athens Georgia

Sur notre tout nouveau site internet,un de nos "liens"
était pour eux.Aujourd'hui,plus que jamais ce mot
prend tout son sens.
Ici au club on a pas oublié les premiers vols de Montaine
avec F.Dabin,sur jodel 112 en septembre 67.

A leurs familles,à leurs amis,nous exprimons toute
notre sympathie.

Le président,
les membres de l'aéro-club-d'Aubigny

In Reply to: I remember Daniel and Montaine posted by Spencer Robbins on May 28, 2000 at 09:20:34:

: I'm twelve years old and am devastated.
: I'd always known them and they were like family to me.
: They always treated me with love and kindness that
: I will never forget.I miss them so much. I pray for
: everyone that knew them to help us in this time of need
.
Spencer, when my Uncle Dodgie's plane crashed without giving him any chance to use his phenominal skills as one of the most experienced pilots in the country, I didn't think anything could break through my anger and grief at what seemed like such a needless loss and personal devestation. This letter written by the Cannon of St. Paul's Cathdral when he lost his best friend was the only thing that cut through my pain. I hope it helps you half as much as it did me.

To my beloved family and friends~
Death is nothing at all---I've only slipped away into the next room. I am I, and you are you. Whatever we were to each other, that we are still. Call me by my old familiar name. Speak to me in the easy way which you always used. Put no difference into your tone. Wear no false air of solemnity or sorrow. Laugh--as we always laughed at the little jokes we enjoyed together. Play---Smile---Think of me---Pray for me. Let my name be ever the household word that it always was. Let it be spoken without effect--without a ghost of a shadow on it. Life means all that it ever was--it is the same as ever. There is unbroken continuity. Why should I be out of mind because I'm out of sight? I am but waiting for you for an interval--somewhere very near--just around the corner...
...All is well.
~~H. S. Holland
Cannon, St. Paul's Cathedral

To Montaine and Daniel,

I am sad to hear the news... the final flight of the French Connection. I remember in June 1973 at Downingtown, Pennsylvania... it was the first public performance of their dual-formation act. A Thousand exhibitions later, and each was a true Ballet-In-The-Sky. Montaine & Daniel will be missed very much.

Sonny Everett

To Montaine and Daniel,

Your technical expertise was awsome. That you elevated flying beyond that, however, such that it became a truly artistic expression of beauty, grace and loving intimacy was truly touching and inspirational.

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

we will miss you you will always be in our hearts
you were a big connection in so many lives
love allyson

We would like to extent our deepest sympathy to the friends and family of these two kind and wonderful people. We had the privilege of meeting them on May 6 and 7th at Flagler County Airport during a contest we were having.We had to shut down our contest for about an hour to vacate the area for their practice but, this bacame the highlight of our contest.Everyone watched as they performed the stunt which cost them their lives,but they had perform it so well in unisom that we could believe they could do it with their eyes closed,that is how much they performed together.

In Reply to: Fondly remembered posted by Aero Mechanical LTD. Jim Pam on May 28, 2000 at 18:15:36:

: Daniel & Montaine;

: Thank you for all the years of friendship and spectacular air show performances. You will both be missed each and every day. May the memory of your lives
: stay with us forever.

Aviation Greats forever in our memories.

Aviation Greats forever in our memories.

good bye my friends,you are together in heaven now,i will allways remember our times together !!!you would be so proud if you could read right here how many lifes you have touched !!your crying german chef michael--8 years at wings airport restaurant,also condolences from my staff ,some of whom you only met a few times--you touched their hearts by beeing nice,funny and pleasent people,raoul,lisa,angie,heiko,al,john,christo,ilse,we all miss you--GOOD BYE MY DEAR FRIENDS

Many fond memories at Dutchess Co Airport, Sky Acres,
the many Airshows, the DCPA Christmas Party. We will
miss you very much. God Speed!
Mitzi and Bob Proctor

We will miss you

Thanks to Montaine and Daniel, I will confidently approach the military with a unsurpassed knowledge of aerobatics.
Montaine always stressed safety and even though I would
get yelled at for doing stupid things, the intentions
were good and insured that I would never put myself in an unforgivig
situation. Daniel was so sweet and funny. It is at
their flight school I met my best friend and many other
great friends. I don't know where I will ever go to
learn what I learned from them. I doubt any other flight
school could match their level of expertise. As Vice President of the Sport
Aviation Club, we will miss these two diamonds in the rough.
It will be hard to convince my parents to let me learn aerobatics
from anyone else. Trust is hard to come by, but I would
count on Montaine and Daniel any day.
Love,
Christina Marie Thompson

You will be missed greatly. Your donations to the contest have always been greatly appreciated.

You are in my dreams forever--from the first time I saw you in Flagler Beach to now.

we will miss you both Montaine and daniel you were such good friends. thanks for all you did for us at airmax. you will never be forgotten. with fondest memories. jack selig, jack and vicki hemmings. and all of us here at airmax. god bless you both

Montaine et Daniel......

You were my shade, my inspiration. Your dance was my music. You helped build my Emeraude. As I fly, I shall think of you.

Fly now, in the presence of the almighty.

Richard

In Reply to: Clouds have parted for their passage posted by Commissioner Jim Darby (Personal) on May 28, 2000 at 14:37:16:

: Let us not take for granted those good things bestowed
: upon us, the fledglings of earthly life that we are.
: They helped me earn my wings at an age much later in
: life than I had wished, a life-long, childhood dream,
: a chapter of my life...

: ..."for we remain weak under the wings of their eternal
: strength for which the earthern bound clouds have parted to allow their eternal passage...God speed!"

: In sympathy, Flagler County Commissioner Jim Darby.

: My sincerest condolences to the family, our worldwide aviation community and to the loved ones of Montaine Mallet and Daniel Heligoin.

In sympathy, EJK & ELK---

You are an insiration to me and to many others, thank you for being positve roll models and great people. You will always remain in my heart.

God Speed....Thanks for the Joy you gave to all of us.

EJK***Getting my Wings

YOU ARE THE BEST

Seldom is the missing man formation so significant.

Never too busy to help anyone. Gone flying. Be back soon

I saw you two for the first time this year at SUN-N-FUN, and from your inspiring show I am now taking flying lessons.

Thanks, and may God be with you two.

Many times I watched your shows and had the privledge of meeting you both. You flew with such style and grace. You will never be replaced and you will never be forgotten.

You brought the love of aviation to all of us, watching how the both of you gracefully tamed your birds, and flying together as one. You will never be forgotten.

As a former student and forever a friend,
I will miss you both so very, very, very much.

High Flight

Oh! I have slipped the surly bonds of earth
And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings;
Sunward I've climbed, and joined the tumbling mirth
Of sun-split clouds - and done a hundred things
You have not dreamed of - wheeled and soared and swung
High in the sunlit silence. Hov'ring there
I've chased the shouting wind along, and flung
My eager craft through footless halls of air.

Up, up the long delirious, burning blue,
I've topped the windswept heights with easy grace
Where never lark, or even eagle flew -
And, while with silent lifting mind I've trod
The high unsurpassed sanctity of space,
Put out my hand and touched the face of God.

Pilot Officer Gillespie Magee
No 412 squadron, RCAF
Killed 11 December 1941

God Bless you Montaine and Daniel.

We met Daniel and Montaine one weekend when we visited the "French Connection" for an aviation safety program. They were friendly, warm, and charming ... they could not have been more gracious or made us feel more welcome.

Our sincere condolences to their friends and family.

David and Fraulein Jaffe
Vero Beach, Florida

Unlike many others, I met Daniel and Montaine only four short years ago when I became the air show director at Oceana. However, their reputation preceded them and I quickly learned why. Their act was one of grace. Their personalities were ones of joy. Their legacy will be both and more. They were honest with their critiques and helped all of us learn to be not only better organizers, but better people. You leave many friends behind and many at Oceana will be remembering you. Deb Mitchell and the Oceana Staff

Daniel and Montaine, it was a privlige of seeing you in Schenectady, New York. God Bless You and fly with the angels.

In Reply to: Daniel & Montaine our great colleagues posted by CASP Bill Bordeleau Family on May 28, 2000 at 11:49:43:

I echo the Bordeleau's condolences. Having worked with them several times I knew their love for each other, flight, and aerial entertainment. I miss them.

Rob Reider
Air Show Announcer
Continental Air Show Productions

I saw then perform just a couple of months ago in Augusta, two souls sharing the passion of flight together. They were simply the best, they gave all to give the true gift of flight to thousands. Rest in peace while dancing with each other in the clouds, God Bless.

Having just heard of their passing, I like so many others will truly miss them and their arial grace. God Bless Them

I started out with you because I was afraid of what you did. I was scared of that whole unknown element of flying. It is wonderful that you were able to share your gift with so many others, always with deepest concern and sincerity. I strive to be like you and impart the standards that you demanded on to my students. You turned that fear into a blessing and forever changed my life and all those with whom I share that love of aerobatics. You will be missed but never ever forgotten.

Thank you for all that you've given.

Josh and Camille Wilson

We've been watching the French Connection for many years. Our 18 month old daughter was mesmerized by their act at Sun-N-Fun this past year. Such fine people and performers can never be replaced. Our thoughts and prayers are with the friends and family of Montaine and Daniel.

In Reply to: WITH SADNESS posted by DAVE CIRONI on May 28, 2000 at 22:31:51:

: Having just heard of their passing, I like so many others will truly miss them and their aerial grace. God Bless Them.

plz forgive my spelling..

Goodbye old friends. You may leave, but you can't take the memories and the laughs. They're mine and they'll stay close to heart.

Daniel and Montaine are an inspiration to my husband and me. They are--because they will forever be--even though they are no longer with us here. They will continue to inspire those who have been touched by their poetry in the sky. Thier love for flying, each other and all of us lives in our hearts and memories. We spoke with Mom and Dad, Bob and Annette Hosking, today; as Annette says their passing is a great loss to the airshow family. Our sympathy extends to all of you.

Lost two special people, Heaven gains two angels.

I never tired of watching you fly. Your routine always uplifted and inspired me. The music you chose to fly to and the poetry Montaine quoted were always moving.

But more than anything I treasure the memories of flying as a student with Montaine!!

Their skills and showmanship made them famous..
So did their friendliness and joie de vivre..
Such a sad time. They will be missed.

Friends from their very early days in the USA.
Andre & Liliane Lonchambon

I started flying aerobatics with Daniel & Montaine in
fall of 1975 after my friend Vicki Winchell mentioned
that a French couple were teaching Aerobatics at
Sky Acres Airport in Millbrook NY. I was in the process
of getting my private pilot's license and wanted to learn
areobatics to make me a better pilot. Their patience and
perseverance allowed me fly with confidence. We became
good friends and had great times together and I will miss them
dearly. Goodbye old friends.
Sincerly,
Jeff Roman

For being my inspiration, you will always be in my heart. Angel wings in Heaven. Thanks Daniel and Montaine, my heroes, you will always be remembered.

I shall never forget the beauty of their performance and the friendship they extended to me as one of their
fans - they will be greatly missed!

The loss is huge to all of us who love flying and enjoyed their talents and gentle spirit.

I was sad to here of their tragady today. Sympathy to all family& friends. I know your pain i lost my brother in an aircraft accident 2 yrs. ago in Pa.

I have been to many airshows and usually prefer military displays to "civilian" demonstrations. Seeing the French Connection changed that for me. The grace and beauty of their flying dance coupled with sensitive poetry and personal passion was very different and intriguing. The fact that this "team" was a personal as well as a professional one made their performances even more amazing to me...the trust, togetherness, and beauty of their show was unique and I am grateful to have witnessed it. Bless you.

Dave Gorman

We wish to express our sympthany on behalf of thousands of Australians who travel to Oshkosh on the Oshkosh Express whom they have given so much pleasure too in watching their performances and talking to them on and off the field.
May they teach the angels to fly.
God Bless.
Sincerly,
Bob & Marya Phillips and Dave Thomas
Co-0ordinators of the Oshhkosh Express.

DANIEL AND MONTAINE,

YOU WERE ALWAYS WILLING TO HELP, AND SHARE YOUR WISDOM.

YOU WILL BE MISSED.

MARSHALL

I will cherish the fond memories that you have left me and my family.We have only met once,having a quick lunch at Allaire(Monmouth)airport in NJ before you moved on to another show. I was only 14 years old,yet you spoke to me as if I was your best friend.Flying was your love and what you did best. My brother had the opertunity to actuly fly with you (Daniel) while you were up at Sussex He alwyas said "If you are going to learn aerobatics go see Daniel and Montaine,They will teach you, They are the best of the best! I was planning on that this winter, but you left us before I had the chance. May God bless you and your family! May you have Blue Skies wherever you may be! Thank you for educating us in the finer aspects flying and the art of being a team! We always looked forward to your performance at Sussex. God speed!

The Sibi Family!

They are our Friends Forever as Montaine & Daniel "Fly West"...Thoughts of them will always be of the good times, the fun times and the pleasures they have brought to us and so many, many others. Their friendship will always be remembered.

I was shocked at the news tonight regarding
Montaine and Daniel's death. Few people enjoy
what they do for a living. Some of us fly when
we get the chance and our check book agrees.
They use to play a poem writtem by a young girl
up at Sussex who died in a mid air. I hope someone
reads that poem in honor of them and the girl with
the love of flight. To have lived and not have
flown would not have been to be alive.

Oh, I have slipped the surly bonds of earth

And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings;

Sunward I've climbed, and joined the tumbling mirth

Of sun-split clouds--and done a hundred things

You have not dreamed of--wheeled and soared and swung

High in the sunlit silence, Hov'ring there,

I've chased the shouting wind along, and flung

My eager craft through footless halls of air.

Up, up the long, delirious, burning blue

I've topped the windswept heights with easy grace

Where never lark, or even eagle flew

And, while with silent, lifting mind I've trod

The high untrespassed sanctity of space,

Put out my hand, and touched the face of God

By Pilot Officer JOHN GILLISPIE MAGEE, JR. No 412 Squadron, RCAF (1922-1941)

High Flight, a poem by John Gillespie Magee, Jr. An American/British fighter pilot. He flew with the Royal
Canadian Air Force in World War II. He came to Britain, flew in a Spitfire squadron, and was killed at age 19 on
December 11, 1941, during a training flight from the airfield near Scopwick, Lincolnshire. The poem was written on
the back of a letter to his parents which stated, "I am enclosing a verse I wrote the other day. It started at 30,000
feet, and was finished soon after I landed."

There are no words to express the loss of such great skill and even greater friendship. Our hearts ache, but our wonderful memories of your incomparable performances will be with us always.
And for you Danielle, there will always be "Frankie's by Night"!
Au revoir, Patrick & Nancy Ford

With a smile on their face
and love in their heart
they made music in the sky
with their flying of grace.
They performed ballet on the
stage of blue skies and air.
For now their audience they
perform for is one greater
than all.

Our hearts are filled with the deepest of sorrow. Montaine with her gracious smile and Daniel with his double cheeked kisses, the little things they brought to us daily. NO words can express how much they will be missed by all. "Fly and be free." With love in our now pained hearts, Jaclyn, Thomas & Chase McCort

MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO THE FAMILIES.THEY ARE WITH THEIR
AVIATION FRIENDS WHOM HAVE GONE ON BEFORE THEM.YOU WILL
BE MISSED BUT NOT FORGOTTEN.

The talent, experience,showmanship and humanity lost are only exceeded by the memories that will forever remain.

I've probably seen their performances over 100 times, pumped a whole lot of smoke oil for them, and shot many, many rolls of film on them. I never stopped being amazed by their precision, awed by Daniel's snap-roll on take-off, or welled up in tears at Montaine's reading of that poem (whose title escapes me) during their show. Not to mention the rolling 360, the canopy-to-canopy, the classic music that fit so well, or the wing-tip smoke that made such a pretty picture.
They left us doing what they loved, and are together for all eternity now, but I'm selfish, I want to see them again, and I'm tired of missing man formations at airshows hitting home like the next one I see will. Godspeed, and bless you both for choosing to entertain and thrill us for so many years... R.I.P.

They filled my head with dreams of flight, so gracefull and serene, an air ballet that made me yearn to live my life again, and be one like them. I can close my eyes and see them as I did so many times, soaring through the air as one, demonstrating the ultimate trust and the love for each other......God must be planning an airshow........ Godspeed !!!

I've no word strong enough to explain my sadness.
Today my heart is turned to MONTAINE and DANIEL and also to their parents, family and friends.
MONTAINE and DANIEL will be in my head and in my heart for the rest of my life.
They were my heros and I'll never forget them.
So long.

SAW THESE AMAZING AIRCRAFT IN THE SKY. TRACKED THEM DOWN AT SKY ACRES AIRPORT IN NEARBY BILLINGS NEW YORK.
THEY WERE KIND ENOUGH TO LET ME ATTEMP A PHOTO ESSAY ON THEIR DAILY ACTIVITIES. DEDICATED, HARD WORKING AND KIND. DAYS STARTED EARLY, EVERY MOMMENT WAS PART OF THEIR EFFORT TO FULFILL THEIR LOVE OF AEROBATIC FLIGHT. IT WAS A THRILL TO PHOTOGRAPH THEM EACH FROM THE PASSENGER SEAT DURING PRACTICE. THEIR INTEREST WAS TO SHARE THEIR DREAM OF AVIATION TO HELP ME WITH MY DREAM OF PHOTO-ESSAY...THEY WERE SO UNSELFISH AND DEAR HEARTED. ANYONE WHO WAS FORTUNATE TO KNOW THEM PERSONALLY WILL HAVE A CHERISHED MEMORY.
DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO MICHEL MUDRY AND FAMILY, THE CAP-10 COMPANY AND ALL WHO LOVED THEM.

Though I had never met either of you, my life has been enriched by you. I have seen your show several times, and twice had the incredible pleasure of aerobatic flight lessons in the CAP10 with your flight school. Both your shows and your flight lessons are experiences that not only thrilled me, but also set free my spirit. Now that your own spirits are set free forever, know that you have touched the lives of so many. God's blessing to you on your final flight over that last horizon. You will be missed.
Tom Dalzell - Private Pilot, Raleigh, NC - USA

With sadness I regret your loss. In the 70s I flew with you at Sky Acres NY. Your love of life and joy of flying was unforgetable. We had laughs too, a forgotten key, a garlic breakfast. Now you will fly in Sky Acres again. With sadnes, Regina Leibowitz

I had the honor of meeting both of them several years ago, and they will surely be missed. They are flying on the wings of angels now.

We were friends up in New York and when I moved to Florida they soon followed.
The aviation community will miss them.

They were very giving to new acro pilots. They gave their time and their knowledge. I had my first contest at Flagler, and Montaine asked if I had anyone to critique me. I said ``no'' so she did. Another time when my optoins for getting a low level card was running out, she and Daniel waited for me to come down from Athens and watched me fly my first Airshow routine, even though it was the saturday before Easter. They leave a void that can't be filled.

Many memories of flying and fun since meeting any learning
from both of you in 1974 at 44N. What more to be said..
and a special thank you to you Montaine for that decision
over Millbrook in 1974.

thanks for all
Harold

The Toronto Airshow crowd and performers will miss you two... The best pair in the world...
May you rest in peace.

Cs.

Husband/Wife teams are very special to us. We have years of good memories on and off the flightline with them. Our sincere sympathy to the family.

It was an honor to know Daniel and Montaine and to share their friendship. Their talent was inspirational. Our sincere sympathies to the family.

Goodbye to great pilots and good friends, I will miss
you every time I walk into a breifing

Rick and Suzanne

Daniel , Montaine ,
Thank you for all .
You was the inspiration to create our "Tche-Connection
team".
More than one hundred pilots that learn aerobatics here in Porto Alegre , Brazil , will remenber you each time they buckle up in our two Cap 10's cockpits.
We are proud to have been among your huge friend's family.

Thanks for all the memories

We will always hold Daniel and Montaine in our hearts and minds as two of not only the best in aviation, but also the best in friends.

I always had fun phoning Montaine & Daniel, because
I did in French and somehow they both knew it was me,
Lise from the Montreal Intl Air Show in St-Hubert at
the time. When I learned of your passing, I was stunned
and still cannot believe you are both gone, but I still
feel your presence, for you are together forever flying
in harmony in our skies! And all of us will remember you
in our deepest memories. Thank you for all the fun,
laughter and professionnalism thru the years I had the
privilege to work with you both, I WILL MISS YOU!!!

I have been a frequenter of airshows for all of my 18 years, and one of the memories that sticks with me after every airshow is the French Connection wheeling through the sky as if bolted together while Montaine reads the poem High Flight. I shall never forget them.

Our deepest sympathies

Back in the 70's Daniel & Montaine came to North Central Airport in Rhode Island to demonstrate the CAP 10. It still had the French registratioin letters. Daniel "baby sat" my 4 year old son while I was fortunate to get about 45 minutes of flight time with Montaine in the CAP 10. Since then we have always tried to fly into an airshow where you would be demonstrating your precision & talent. Thanks for years of memories. You now have made your last flight, but will fly with all of us always.

In Reply to: Daniel et montaine posted by adam shaw on May 28, 2000 at 08:38:40:

: Montaine:
: Daniel:

F-GFNFE CAP 10 s/n 22 took off today from LFLP (Annecy) at 11:30 LT and flew to Carreau d'Arrache where you loved to ski. Half toll to inverted and a half roll back. For you.

: You weremy boss, my family, my connection to things I love most. Flying upside down and Marianne , my wife.

: Godspeed.

: Adam

Adam, Please get in touch.

You were great pilots...even better friends. We will miss you and will keep you alive in our many memories of you. Say Hello to Leo and our other friends.
Karen

Fot many years I have watched yur performances and every one was a treat and truly a pleasure to watch. Godspeed Montaine and Daniel you were the best.

We will always remember you two, together - thoughtful, caring and above all else, the best of friends!

Never forgotten.

Mark, Karin and Stephanie Reichin – Poughkeepsie, NY and Boston, MA

Thanks for the memories. We all want to say good bye and let you know that you will never be forgotten. Not only did we enjoy your flying; we enjoyed you as wonderful human beings. You are now committed into God's hand. See you on the other side.

I, nor many thousands of others will never forget the "French Connection", I'm honored to have watched their aerial ballet, and I mourn their loss.

THANK YOU FOR ALL THE WONDER TIMES

I saw Daniel and Montaine perform for the first time just last month at the Athens, GA airshow. I was thinking about leaving early until a friend of mine encouraged me to stick around to watch them. I am forever grateful that I did. Their routine was graceful as it was impeccably performed.

My wife also took my children to Flagler to meet the team. I as a CFII have not been able to interest my children in flying, but it took Montaine all of about 5 minutes to convince my 9 year old that she would become a pilot. I will always remember the time Montaine took and the compassion she showed my daughter as she walked her through their hanger, showing her their airplanes. Thank you both for the inspiration you have been to everyone of us! You will be missed.

For many years we were thrilled with The French Connections aerial ballet. You will be sadly missed at air shows in Central and Southwestern Ohio. No other acrobatic team could quite duplicate the graceful routine performed by this husband and wife team.

My condolences to the family of these fine performers.

Bill Walton, Columbus, Ohio

Mouth agape, I watched your aerial pas de deux so many times. Remembering, I can still feel the thrill.

We will always remember you as "our guys" at Poughkeepsie.

Gary Gladstone

I can't remember an airshow without Daniel & Montaine. They were great performers, but most of all, they were friends. My son, grandchildren and I will miss you. RSP my friends and thank you for years of enjoyment.

I met both of you in Addison, Texas, the final airshow to be staged at the Addison Airport. I was so excited to meet the two of you. Both of you must have thought I was just some airplane nut from the locals. But I marvelled at your expertise and your skills. I was drawn to the Airplanes, The CAP history and the beauty of the planes themselves. I was a 1/4 RC'r and built a Yellow Aircraft CAP10B in honor of the two of you. Flew it many times at the IMAA meets, and touted the CAP's abilities and your own experties. I can not believe that both of you are gone. Montaine and Daniel you two people touched my life for a brief moment. A memory that I will cherrish forever. I am deeply saddened and my heart pours out to your families. I hope that the moments such as mine, where your presence was a thrill and an emotional high will live on in your memory. Good Bye my friends, I will be always thinking of you and remembering the beautifull encounter one bright sunny day in Texas.
Deepest Sympathies

Johnny Snead
Chapter 21 IMAA
Internation Miniature Aircraft Assc.
Irving R/C Flyers Assc.

At times like these there are no words, no making sense, just heavy hearts. I feel so blessed as we all should that God allowed you in our lives and we will forever be affected by you. You took me under your wings when I was just a little girl and now I hope that I will continue to fly with the love that you have shown me forever in my heart. I went flying today and what a feeling it was to know that I have two beautiful angels watching over me as I took to the sky. It was my time to let you hold my broken heart for just awhile. You both will fly forever in all of our hearts. J'taime.

While I have never met either of you, I feel like I have. I have followed your airshow activities for some years with amazement of what the two of you could do. As a fellow pilot, the news of your loss has struck a personal cord. May God bless and hold the two of you.

You were unique, as a couple, and as individuals and brought light to every room you entered. You were always much loved by everyone who met you, because you always gave so much of yourselves in every moment. The world shall remember you as alive and full of life. You were always one - connected - and we loved you.

I was shocked to hear the tragic news Saturday evening from my Mom who lives in Port Orange, FL. I had the pleasure and privilege of meeting Daniel and Montaine a couple of years ago. I also had the distinct joy of taking some instruction with Montaine in the CAP10. Montaine was a master artist in the sky. Flying with her was an incredibly fun experience. I will always count that as some of my most memorable flying.

My sympathies to Montaine and Daniel's friends and family. I know they will be greatly missed.

Profondément bouleversé par l'accident de Montaine et Daniel, je ne peux que vous dire à quel point cette nouvelle qui m'est parvenue hier est atroce !
Je pense que le monde aéronautique va subir de ce fait une grande perte et que tous mes amis de la voltige vont partager avec moi ce deuil qui nous frappe. Bien amicalement dans la joie comme dans la douleur, c'est par la pensèe que je dis aurevoir à mes deux plus chers amis.
Marcel Charollais

I am very sad to hear of the loss of Montaine and Daniel, and express my symapathies to all who were friends and family. Having seen them perform many times, and spoken to them at length, they were true aerial artists,fantastic pilots, and wonderful people.

Al Parry

You always made airshows more exciting. Thank you!!

The loss of Montaine and Daniel is another hard to believe event. The contribution of the French Connection can never be replaced. Both Linda and I consider ourselves fortunate to have been among their many friends. Montaine and Daniel we will miss you.

Montaine and I spent together our time in the 2 engineering schools.
Mes amis de promotion et moi avions toujours une pensée pour elle lors de nos diners de
promotion.
Pour nous, elle était toujours en l'air.
Pour nous, elle sera toujours dans le ciel!

Quant à Daniel, il fut le moniteur de voltige de mon défunt mari!
La boucle est ainsi bouclée!

C'est le ciel qu'ils aimaient.
Myriam

We will miss your leadership qualities and we will always cherish those great memories of flying together !!!!

as fans who enjoyed the french connection at oshkosh every year, we will forever remember their spectacular performances. so lucky they were to go at the same time, doing what they loved to do the most...together.

Our deepest sympathy to their family and friends in the US, France and beyond.
Daniel and Montaine were a true inspiration to so many.
We were priviledged and proud to have m