A United Airlines cockpit tour at age eight, a scenic Ohio flight in a Stinson, and a stack of Flying magazines donated by an uncle planted the flying dream at an early age. John earned his private license in 1967 while in college. After three years as an Army officer, commercial, instrument, and CFI tickets were added using VA educational benefits. As one of the only bankers in San Diego who could talk aviation, John developed a following among the old Pacific Southwest Airlines crews, aircraft dealers, and local pilots. He financed construction of 60 hangars, 12 Mooney 201s, a P-51, and several other aviation businesses. John has about 450 hours total time and still flies now under Basic Med.