Steve Treece's Obituary
On September 27th, 2024, Captain Steve Treece, 76, of Denver, NC took his final flight west. Despite battling numerous health issues throughout his years, he faced them bravely and always had a positive outlook on life. His absence will be deeply felt, reminding us of his inspiring journey.
Steve was born February 25th, 1948, in Albemarle, NC to the late Dewey & Lois Treece. He graduated from Albemarle High School in 1966 where he enjoyed band. After graduation, Steve attended Oak Ridge Military Academy and received his BA in Business Administration from Lenoir-Ryne College in 1971. This is the time when his love of flying ‘took off’. Steve entered the Air Force completing Pilot Training in Laredo, Texas in 1973. He then completed Squadron Officer’s School, at Maxwell AFB, Alabama in 1975. In July of that same year, he joined the North Carolina Air National Guard, 145th ALFT, serving 21 years. Lt. Col Treece was a Flight Instructor, Chief of Simulator Training, and Aircraft Commander among other positions. Additionally, he received the Meritorious Service Medal.
Steve landed his dream job with Piedmont Airlines on April 1st,1985 where he flew for 17 years. As Piedmont grew, Steve took the opportunity to expand his skills moving from 727 Flight engineer to newer aircraft. During his career, he was known as a highly skilled aviator; to quote a coworker, “he was what airline pilots aspire to be”. He often remarked that flying for Piedmont Airlines was one of the best parts of his life. Like many others, you can take them out of the airplane but cannot take away the love of flight. Unfortunately, his career was sidelined due to heart problems. On November 13th, 2013, Steve received a heart transplant. His family extends a special thank you to Sanger Heart & Vascular, the heart donor, and their family.
Steve loved sailing, cars, music, and cooking and was a proud member of the Piedmont Silver Eagles. We will miss his quick wit, fun sense of humor, and zest for life. Steve dearly loved his family and country. He is survived by his wife Leslie, daughter Lindsay (Jonathan) Lesh of Fort Mill, SC, three grandchildren, Peter, Jon, and Emilia, and his sister, Pamela Coffey of Boca Raton, FL. Steve was a loyal husband, dad, papa, and faithful friend. No matter what life brought, we always felt safe in his capable hands.
With peace in our hearts, we know Captain Treece requested runway clearance for his last flight and final destination, Heaven. Steve, you will be truly missed and fondly remembered…We love you.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to Oak Ridge Military Academy: Aviation Fund- Steve Treece, online or by mail to 2317 Oak Ridge Road, Oak Ridge, NC 27310, or the Tunnel to Towers Foundation https://dogood.t2t.org/
James Funeral Home is assisting the family, online condolences may be made at www.jamesfuneralhomelkn.com.
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