John Merritt Archibald

John Merritt Archibald, 90, of Malabar, Florida, peacefully passed away, Sunday, April 1, 2018, at home.

John was born September 27, 1927 in Amherst, Massachusetts to John Geddie and Cora Estelle (Blenkhorn) Archibald. Following high school graduation, he enlisted in the United States Air Force and attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. After three years of service, he married June Eleanor Johnson in the Town of Amherst, Massachusetts. He was employed as an A&P mechanic and then later became a flight engineer for Eastern Airlines. After ten years, John obtained his Master's Degree from FIU and retired as an Emeritus Professor of Aviation after 25 years on faculty at Miami Dade College.

A devoted husband and father, John is survived by children: Susan Gorrell, Sandra Hall, Sharon Schmidt, Sally Haller, and John B. Archibald; 10 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, and a great number of extended family. Also, his loving friend and companion of fifteen years, Ursula M. Davidson, Miami, Florida. John was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Eleanor June in 2002; his sisters, Jean and Gladys, and his brother, William.

He was a lifetime member of the E.A.A., who built a Stits Playmate in his garage, flew the plane several times in Florida and beyond. The aircraft is now on display at Florida Air Museum in Lakeland, Florida. He was a life-long passionate fan of the Boston Red Socks. In retirement, he and his beloved wife of 50+ years, June, never slowed down. They traveled the entire U.S., via R.V., a good part of the time with African Grey Parrot, Flo Jo Red Feather in tow for good company and lively conversation. John continued traveling here and abroad with partner Ursula. A "top notch" life lived to its fullest.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, April 9, 2018 at 2:00 pm at Vista Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 14200 NW 57 ^th Avenue, Miami Lakes, Florida 33014. The visitation will begin at 1:00 pm and last until the time of the service. Burial will follow immediately on site.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Aerospace Center for Excellence, 4175 Medulla Road, Lakeland, FL 33811 or American Lung Association COPD Research.