District I Report - 2010/05
Remembering John Nicolaci
There are not many modelers who come into our sport and leave a lasting memory because of their technical contributions and the camaraderie they fostered. John Nicolaci was one of those notable modelers.
John passed away, 87 years young, on November 12, 2009. This was one month after the Bristol County R/C Club held its first annual John Nicolaci Float Fly at John's favorite float-flying place: Mary's Pond in Rochester, Massachusetts. The following remembrances highlight some of the achievements in John's life.
Early life and aviation career
John's passion for aviation began at an early age when he won first prize for the longest flight of his rubber-powered airplane at the Jordan Marsh store competition. He was educated at Manhattan High School of Aviation. In the early 1940s, John worked in the engineering department at Glenn L. Martin Aircraft in Baltimore on the PBM Mariner, a patrol bomber flying boat used in World War II.
Modeling achievements
Among modelers, John is best known for his scale 15-foot R/C PBM. He built the model more than 34 years ago, utilizing foam construction techniques that he pioneered.
Notable features and accomplishments of the model:
- Powered by two Super Tigre .90 engines with remote starters.
- Operational bomb bays.
- JATO (jet-assisted takeoff).
- Flaps and other operational systems.
- Large fuselage fuel tank with pumps to move fuel to the nacelle tanks so refueling wasn't necessary.
- The aircraft has appeared in many publications and been flown at numerous events and locations, including the Joe Nall Fly-In, the Nats, various airfields, ponds, and the ocean.
- One notable flight was from New Bedford harbor to the island of Martha's Vineyard—over 25 miles.
- At John's request, his aircraft was retired in the same facility that built the original wings for the full-scale PBM in Maryland.
Business career
In the business world, John was a co-owner and chief designer of Cliftex Corporation in New Bedford. He manufactured men's suits and employed more than 2,000 people. His ingenuity included developing machinery to increase manufacturing efficiency.
Legacy
It was an honor to have known John. He personified our district mission of friendship, flying, and fun.
Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
