Suzanne Upjohn Delano Parish lived a life that spanned nearly nine decades, defined by courage, innovation, and a deep-rooted love for aviation. Born into a family with a legacy of entrepreneurship and civic contributions, she charted her own path in the skies at a time when women pilots were rare. Her journey as an aviator during World War II, her role in preserving aviation history, and her influence as a philanthropist and community leader make her story both inspiring and historically significant. From her early days learning to fly to cofounding one of America’s most beloved aviation museums, Parish’s life demonstrates the powerful impact one person can have on their community and on the broader cultural memory of flight.
Early Life and Background
Suzanne Upjohn Delano Parish was born on November 13, 1922, in New York City into a family already noted for its achievements. She was the daughter of Dorothy Upjohn DeLano Dalton and H. Allan DeLano and the maternal granddaughter of William E. Upjohn, the founder of The Upjohn Company, a major pharmaceutical manufacturer based in Michigan.
Growing up in a family that valued education and service, Suzanne had access to opportunities that helped shape her future. She attended Sarah Lawrence College in 1942, but even before her college years she had discovered a passion that would define her life flying. At the age of 19, she began taking flying lessons, rapidly developing her skills and spending hundreds of hours in the air before most of her peers had even started.
Joining the Women Airforce Service Pilots
When World War II was underway, Suzanne Upjohn Delano Parish answered the call to serve her country in the skies. In 1943 she joined the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP), a groundbreaking group of female aviators who flew military aircraft in support roles so that more male pilots could be deployed to combat missions.
As part of WASP Class 44W6, Suzanne underwent rigorous training at Avenger Field in Sweetwater, Texas, one of the central training grounds for women pilots at the time. She flew a variety of aircraft including the PT17, BT13, and AT6, mastering both basic and advanced flight techniques. Once trained, she was stationed at Bryan Army Air Base in Texas, where she served as a test pilot and instructor. Her work involved flying with returning combat pilots and testing repaired aircraft before they were released for duty.
The WASP Legacy
The women of the WASP program flew more than 60 million miles in World War II, performing vital duties that helped strengthen the American war effort. Although they were initially classified as civilians and not granted military status, their service was later formally recognized. Decades after the war, surviving WASP members were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal as part of a collective honor acknowledging their patriotism and trailblazing efforts.
Life After the War
After the WASP program ended in 1944, Suzanne attempted to find work as a commercial pilot. Despite her extensive experience, she faced the barriers common to female aviators of her era and did not secure a position. Instead, she shifted her focus to family life following her marriage to Preston Pete Parish in 1948. Together they raised five children, and she devoted herself to motherhood while remaining connected to her passion for aviation.
In 1958, her husband purchased a small airplane, inspiring Suzanne to resume flying. The couple soon began to assemble a collection of historic aircraft, purchasing models like the Stearman, AT6, and Grumman Wildcat. Over time, their personal collection grew into one of the most remarkable private assemblies of vintage planes in the country.
CoFounding the Air Zoo
In 1977, Suzanne and Pete Parish cofounded the Kalamazoo Aviation History Museum, which would become known as the Air Zoo. Located near the Kalamazoo airport in Michigan, this museum was designed to celebrate both historical aircraft and the stories of the people who flew them. The foundation of the museum was the Parish collection itself, featuring planes with historical significance as well as a number of vintage warbirds.
Under Suzanne’s guidance, the Air Zoo became not just a static display of aircraft but an interactive and educational space that engaged the public. Over the years, the museum expanded its exhibits, educational programs, and outreach efforts, inspiring new generations to learn about aviation history and technology.
Flying Exhibitions and Performances
One of the most memorable aspects of Suzanne Parish’s aviation career was her signature pink Curtiss P40 Warhawk. Painted in a vibrant shade and lovingly maintained, this aircraft became an airborne symbol of her enthusiasm and skill. Suzanne flew the P40 in air shows across the United States for more than twentyfive years, delighting crowds with aerobatic performances well into her seventies.
The aircraft itself now hangs prominently in the Air Zoo as a tribute to her legacy and service. Through her dedication to flying and to preserving aviation history, she helped ensure that future generations would understand and appreciate the courage of pilots from her era.
Recognition and Honors
Throughout her life and after her passing, Suzanne Upjohn Delano Parish received numerous honors recognizing her contributions to aviation and her community. She was inducted into the Michigan Aviation Hall of Fame as well as the Experimental Aircraft Association Warbird Hall of Fame. Her induction into the Western Michigan University College of Aviation Hall of Honor highlights her influence as both a pilot and a benefactor.
Her service in the WASP program was formally acknowledged with the Congressional Gold Medal, one of the highest civilian honors in the United States. This award symbolizes the bravery and dedication of the women who flew military aircraft during World War II, an achievement that Suzanne embodied fully throughout her life.
Philanthropy and Community Impact
Beyond her aviation accomplishments, Suzanne’s legacy extends into philanthropy. The Suzanne Upjohn Delano Parish Foundation, based in Kalamazoo, Michigan, carries forward her commitment to community support and charitable giving. Established to support various causes in Michigan, California, and Colorado, the foundation contributes to educational, healthrelated, and cultural projects, extending her influence beyond aviation.
Through her foundation and through her work with the Air Zoo, Suzanne Parish left a tangible mark on her community, inspiring countless individuals and contributing to the cultural fabric of the region.
Personal Life and Lasting Legacy
Suzanne Upjohn Delano Parish passed away on May 12, 2010, at the age of 87 in Palm Springs, California. She was remembered not only for her remarkable aviation career but also for her warmth, creativity, and generous spirit. Survived by her children and grandchildren, she left behind a legacy marked by passion, service, and innovation.
Her contributions as a pilot, museum founder, philanthropist, and community leader continue to resonate. Suzanne Parish’s life offers a compelling example of how determination and passion can overcome barriers and leave a positive impact on both local and national history.