April 23, 1940 – June 3, 2025
EDINA, MINN. – Alden ‘Al’ Walter Lange, 85, of Edina, MN, passed away June 3, 2025, at his home in Edina, Minn. He is survived by his wife, Carol, daughters and grandchildren.
Al was born on April 23, 1940, in Watertown, MN. He graduated from Mound High School, class of 1958, after which he attended the University of Minnesota. There, he played in the marching band, accompanying the football team to the Rose Bowl, and studied agronomy. He went on to complete his Bachelor of Science Degree in Education and Psychology from St. Cloud State University. Al was blessed with a natural gift of teaching and taught social studies, political science and psychology courses at Eden Prairie High School for several years before he pursued his dream and passion for aviation. Al was a commercial-rated pilot with helicopter and seaplane ratings. He was the General Manager and Vice President of Elliot Beechcraft at Flying Cloud Airport for 14 years after which he went on to lead several other fixed base operations including Beechcraft’s flagship operation in Wichita, KS and Mankato Aviation. From there Al created a new division at Greentree Financial, serving as Vice President of Aircraft Finance until he retired. Al served the aviation community through his leadership and involvement in professional organizations including the National Air Transportation Association, Minnesota Aviation Trades Association, Minnesota Business Aviation Association, and Lutheran Association of Missionary Pilots.