Ben Benecke, Alaska Flight Pioneer

Ben Benecke, an Alaska aviation pioneer and former president of Alaska Airlines, died yesterday in Seattle. He was 75.

Mr. Benecke, who grew up in Nebraska, came to Alaska to serve with the Navy. He was stationed in Sitka, but in 1942, a year after leaving the service, he moved to Juneau.

His 49-year aviation career started with Alaska Coastal Airlines in Juneau as office manager and bookkeeper. He later became a pilot for the air carrier and eventually a partner.

Mr. Benecke headed to Seattle in 1968 when Alaska Coastal-Ellis Airlines merged with Alaska Airlines. He held a number of top positions at the airline before becoming president in 1973. He retired in 1976, but stayed on the board of directors until 1991.

"Ben excelled in the business world, but I think he'll be remembered more for the thoughtful, caring way he approached life and his dedication to community service," said Ray Vecci, Alaska Air's chief executive officer, in a statement.

Former Alaska Air CEO Bruce Kennedy, who retired in 1991, credited Mr. Benecke with being a main force in the airline's growth in the 1970s.

"Accountability was his watchword," Kennedy said. "When a flight didn't operate, or when it was late, he ferreted out the cause. His attention to detail and organizational skills were crucial to our success."

Mr. Benecke was a founder of the Alaska Visitors Association and the state Chamber of Commerce. He was also on the board of the Alaska Federal Savings and Loan Association for 34 years, including 12 as chairman.

Mr. Benecke is survived by his wife, Clara, daughters Jan McGreevy and Diane Benecke, both of Seattle, and Ellen Mulder of Anchorage, and three grandchildren.

Memorial services are scheduled for Wednesday 13 at 2:30 p.m. at the Lutheran Church of the Resurrection, 1st Ave. S. and South 206th, Des Moines.

Memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association, 4414 Woodland Park N., Seattle, WA 98103 or to The Lutheran Hour, 2185 Hampton Ave., St. Louis, MO 63139.