John Wendell Hyde

John W. Hyde, a retired Naval Aviator, dedicated Flight Safety International flight instructor, and beloved family patriarch, passed away peacefully at home, June 23rd, at the age of 85. 

Born and raised on a family farm in Altoona, Kansas, John learned the values of hard work, grit, and perseverance early in life. His farm upbringing grounded him as he took to the skies, forging a distinguished military career as a pilot in the United States Navy. 

After retiring from naval service, John translated his passion for aviation into a second career. He spent many years as an instructor for Flight Safety International, where he mentored, trained and shaped the careers of countless pilots, passing down his strict commitment to precision and professionalism. John also spent many years as an instructor and range master at Lake Afton public shooting range where he instilled the importance of hunters safety education into the minds of many. 

While John achieved great heights in his professional life, his greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted husband, dedicated father, adoring grandfather and a proud great-grandfather. He leaves behind a rich legacy of love, storytelling and an enduring sense of duty that will live on through his descendants. 

He is preceded in death by his parents George and Frances Hyde; his brothers King and Dean. 

He is survived by his wife of 59 years Betty; sons David (Wendy) of Orange Park, Fl; John (Kimberley) of Lawrence, Ks; daughter Tina (Tom) Prunier of Derby, Ks 11 grandchildren: Joshua (Paulina), Elizabeth (Andrew), Austin, Wade, Sebastian, Samantha (Brandon), Katherine, Nicholas, Brooke, Jeremiah and McKenna 3 great-grandchildren: Xander, Ophelia and Harley “Little” brother: Tom (Judy) 

A visitation with family present will be Monday, June 29th from 5-7 p.m at Smith Mortuary Derby, Ks Graveside service with military honors will be held at the cemetery in Altoona, Ks on June 30th at 1 p.m. Memorial donations can be made to: Young Hunters Safety Inc., 740 N. Timberleaf Circle, Derby, Ks 67037.