Richard (Rick) Patrick Groth of Winter Park, Florida died unexpectedly in his home on July 31, 2015. He was 50 years old. The beloved son of Robert Edwin Groth and Dr. Suzanne Groth Foglesong, he was born on January 28, 1965 in Orlando.
The grandson of a WWII test pilot and the son of a fighter pilot who served during the Korean War, Rick was born with wings. He began his career as a young freight pilot, flying from night to dawn delivering paper checks throughout the state. His career took off when he became the owner and Chief Pilot for Air Orlando Charter. After selling Air Orlando he joined JC Aviation in Sanford, FL, where he continued until his untimely death.
Rick will always be remembered for his sense of humor, compassion, unwavering generosity, loyalty, and gentle heart. The oldest of three children, Rick often chose "the road not taken," and lived life to the fullest. He was courageous; an inspiration to those who chose an unconventional life, and a respected pilot. Rick attended Mercer University in Macon, GA, Embry Riddle School of Aeronautics in Prescott, AZ, and Flight Safety in Ft. Lauderdale, FL.
His travels took him throughout the United States and Europe, and he often sent home videos of his trips narrated by hilarious descriptions of "his hard life!" Recently Rick took his wife and daughter on a sojourn to New York City. Another time, on Mother's Day, he surprised his mom with a red carpet flight to Key West for dinner and a sunset. These are the things that brought him joy, and reflect the generosity and spontaneity that defined him.
In addition to his parents, he is survived by his wife, Wendy, their daughter Sydney and two adult children: Jackie Brazell (Michael) and Nathan Barclay. He is also survived by his sister, Dr. Robin Groth Meade, (Lonnie), Orlando; his brother, David Robert Groth, Maitland; sisters-in-law: Crystal Groth (Donnie), Casselberry; and Amy Romero, Orlando; nephews: Spencer and Max Meade, Cole and Thorin Groth, and several other nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his Uncle, Col. William P. Vacca USMC (Retired) (Susan) of San Diego, and their sons Patrick and Robert, also of San Diego.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Survivor Fund for Groth family at Gofundme.com. An account has also been set up at Iberia Bank for the benefit of Sydney Groth. Please make checks payable to Robin Meade FBO Sydney Groth. They can be mailed to: Iberia Bank, 600 Wilkinson St., Suite 100, Orlando, FL 32803.
There will be a celebration of Rick's life for close friends and family at the family home at 100 Ranch Rd., Winter Park, FL 32792 on Saturday, August 8th at 1PM.
Somewhere, a jet climbs effortlessly beyond the clouds, toward the heavens. Our pilot smiles, and writes his name across the stars for all to see. He is home.