William “Bill” Amorde, 82, pilot, airport manager, aviation businessman, and lifelong resident of Superior, Wisconsin, passed away on December 26, 2025.
Bill was born on March 8, 1943, in Superior, Wisconsin, to Oscar and Ellen (Johnson) Amorde. He was a proud graduate of Superior East High School, Class of 1960, and later served his country for six years in the National Guard.
On March 15, 1969, Bill married Catherine “Cathy” Cochrane. Together they built a life rooted in family, service, and shared purpose, celebrating 56 years of marriage.
Bill’s lifelong passion for aviation began with his first flight lesson on August 5, 1962, at the age of 19, a moment that would define the course of his life. He went on to earn an extraordinary range of aviation certifications, including Airline Transport Pilot (ASE), Commercial ASES, AMEL, Rotorcraft–Helicopter and Gyroplane, Glider, Lighter-Than-Air Free Balloon, and Instrument ratings. He also held a Gold Seal Flight Instructor Certificate (CFI) with ASEL, AMEL, Instrument, Glider, and Rotorcraft–Helicopter ratings, as well as a Mechanic Certificate for Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) and Inspection Authorization (IA).
In July 1976, Bill became a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) for the Federal Aviation Administration, administering nearly 5,000 flight tests over his distinguished career. Alongside Cathy, he owned and operated Twin Ports Flying Service beginning in 1966. In 1969, Bill was appointed Airport Manager of Richard I. Bong Airport, a position he held with dedication and integrity for more than 50 years. In recognition of his profound contributions to aviation, Bill was inducted into the Wisconsin Aviation Hall of Fame in 2017.
Read more about Bill Amorde’s aviation accomplishments.