For $200 Atlee sent me all his J-3/PA-11 STC's. He supported aviation in many ways.
Gary
Years ago, when I owned a 90 hp J-3 in Kodiak, I was in ANC and stopped at Atlee’s place to inquire about J-3 mods. I’d never met Atlee, but had heard many stories…he was a legend. I’m asking questions about certain mods and Atlee begins something of a rant about people copying (stealing) his designs, and the “GD FAA” then field approving these bootlegged mods……implying thats what I was up to. At a pause, I made it clear that I’d happily pay him for his STCs, but I just wanted to know more about them before I laid out cash.
Atlee looked at me and said: “I’ll tell you what, I’ll sell you ALL my J-3 STCs for $100 bucks, cash only, right now.” I drug out my wallet and handed him five twenties. He said he’d be right back, and disappeared into the other room.
Soon he came back and now the conversation was all about “Where ya from, what do you do there? Etc…..a very friendly visit. After a while, Atlees wife came out of the back with a stack of paper…..all Atlee’s J-3 STCs. I noted with amazement that was a LOT of STCs for $100, and Atlee laughed, and said he hadn’t sold any of those STCs for a couple years. I cant recall the actual number, but 20 something seems right.
And that was the beginning of a friendship. Every time I was in Anchorage after that, I’d go by Atlee’s place and visit. A true Alaskan character and legend. And someone I’m blessed to have known.
MTV