Chicago Executive Airport remembers longtime employee Clyde Coryell

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Chicago Executive Airport remembers longtime employee Clyde Coryell

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By Sky Industry News

Mar 20, 2025

Clyde Coryell's six-decade dedication to Chicago Executive Airport has left an indelible mark on all who knew him. Since his passing, tales of his unwavering work ethic, humor, and pride in his role have emerged.

After serving in the Navy and working construction at the airport, Coryell was hired by the airport's owner, Charlie Priester, as part of the maintenance team. He continued working tirelessly until retiring in 2020.

"I could tell right away he was a good guy," Priester said. "He became one of those very dependable people who would do anything to make sure a job was done well. "

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Coryell's contributions spanned various aspects of the airport, including the Hangar Restaurant, 94th Aero Squadron, and essential infrastructure like the control tower and beacon. Notably, he attended night school to learn air conditioning repair when issues arose with the system.

Mark Roscoe, Director of Public Works for Prospect Heights and a distant cousin said: "He carried great pride in his work and reminded me to always do the right thing. "

Al Palicki of Signature Aviation remembered Coryell as an exceptionally hard worker: "No one works into their 80s if they aren't good and don't love it. "

Palicki recounted a humorous incident involving Coryell working without safety gear on a lift four stories high. When reminded to put on fall protection, Coryell jokingly expressed more concern about damaging the concrete than his safety but complied nonetheless.

Clyde Coryell's impact on Chicago Executive Airport and its community remains profound. "A man like Clyde is hard to replace," Priester said. "He was a good guy and a great friend. "