BETHALTO - Keith Cook spent 53 years flying and 35 of the years for the same company and out of the same airport. Today marked his last flight for Basler Electric. His last trip was today and he flew with his family down to Spirit of St Louis Airport in Chesterfield Missouri, for lunch before returning to Bethalto.

Get The Latest News!

Don't miss our top stories and need-to-know news everyday in your inbox.

Cook flew for Basler Electric, which is located in Highland, Illinois.

Article continues after sponsor message

Cook grew up in Worden, Illinois, and graduated from Edwardsville High School. It was a childhood passion that got Cook into flying. He learned how to fry out of St. Louis Regional Airport in Bethalto and he continued there the rest of his time.

Cook was an engineer for the railroad 17 prior to flying. Once he arrived back at St Louis Regional Airport the fire department from the airport was waiting and did a water arch to welcome him home.

Since he retired he has moved down to Lake of the Ozarks to enjoy retirement.

More like this:

Mar 6, 2023 | Flying Club Now Forming at St. Louis Regional Airport in Bethalto: Hill, Harding Lead Effort

Jun 8, 2021 | MidAmerica St. Louis Airport Provides Passengers With Option To Minimize Environmental Impact Of Their Air Travel

Jan 6, 2022 | Latest IDOT Study Reveals St. Louis Downtown Airport Contributes $422 Million In Economic Impact To The Bi-State St. Louis Region

Jan 27, 2023 | St. Louis Downtown Airport Enters 2023 Prepared for Continued Growth

Mar 8, 2019 | New Bus Service Launches Monday Providing Link Between Metrolink and Midamerica St. Louis Airport