We are deeply saddened by Sunday’s tragic plane crash in Howland that claimed the lives of six individuals, including four members of the Weller family—James, Veronica, John and Maria—respected pilot Joseph Maxin and co-pilot Timothy Blake.
The Weller family’s contributions in the steel industry are part of the region’s proud industrial history and helped shape the economic fabric of the Valley for generations. Their loss is immeasurable, both personally and professionally, and their absence will be profoundly felt across the Valley.
We also extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Joe Maxin, a leader in aviation, a dedicated educator at Youngstown State University’s new flight school, and a trusted voice at the Western Reserve Port Authority. We stand with Anthony Trevena and the Port Authority team as they grieve a colleague and friend. Our thoughts are also with Mike Hillman and the JETS FBO team at the Youngstown-Warren Regional Airport. In this time of sorrow, we hold all those impacted in our thoughts and prayers.