R.I.P Michael Karnes

[Doug Pilcher]

It is with great sorrow that we, the IMAC Board of Directors, must inform you that Mike Karnes passed away this morning due to complications related to COVID-19. He had been fighting the disease at home and was in the hospital for last week and a half. Mike was extremely dedicated to IMAC, serving as the President for the last 6 years, and as North Central Regional Director for many years prior to that. Mike served on the Sequence Committee, and for the past several years has been the IMAC Librarian, ensuring all contests had Unknowns delivered, and keeping the Sequence committee running. He was the Contest Director for the Scale Aerobatics Nationals for 6 years until 2016, and for the 2018 Worlds. His love and passion for IMAC seemed endless in his dedication to furthering the sport of Scale Aerobatics. His leadership helped carry IMAC from a North American focused organization, to a truly International organization.
We do not have any information yet regarding arrangements for him, but as soon as we find out anything, we will pass it on. We are asking everyone to keep his widow, Jo Ann, and children in your thoughts and prayers.

[Cam Shahrdar]

Rest in peace Mike, and prayers for his family and friends.

[Bill Teeter]

Devastating loss for the IMAC community. His devotion to IMAC was exemplary. He will be greatly missed especially by his NC colleagues.

[Earle Andrews]

So sorry to hear this. Rest in Peace Mike.....all 10's forever.

[Adi Kochav]

Devastating news!
Rest In Peace Mike.

[Doug Pilcher]

In speaking with Mike's wife Jo Ann, Mike was cremated today and Obituary to be released is attached here. She is planning on just a memorial ceremony in the spring time right now. She is not totally sure yet but no ceremony is currently planned firmly as of yet.

I know we will all miss him and IMAC has lost a great advocate for the sport of Scale Aerobatics. But we must also press forward as he would of absolutely insisted we do.

RIP Michael D. Karnes

[Joe Layne]

RIP Mike. Wishing you blue skies, lite winds, and 70 degree temps for your biggest flight. Always remembered.

[Doug Pilcher]

This is in March Issue of AMA Magazine. Page 16.