LUOMA Aarne Johannes Sept. 20, 1936 - June 11, 2008 Aarne was the youngest son of John and Sanna Luoma. He attended Three Hills Ridge School, Trochu Valley High, Olds Agriculture School and then SAIT, taking Radio and Electronics Technology plus Electronic Engineering at U of C and U of A. He apprenticed in radio with B.G. Mathieu and Bob's Radio and TV (Donnelly). He was very active in the Trochu community, supplying PA systems for official openings for over 20 years. He installed the sound systems in the Trochu arenas, swimming pool, the United Church and the old community hall. He was an amateur HAM Radio Operator and belonged to several HAM Radio groups. He took flying lessons and owned several airplanes, with his own private airstrip on his farm. He was a member of the Kneehill Flying Club, Three Hills Flying Club, The International Flying Farmers, Alberta Flying Farmers as well as member of the Canadian Owners and Pilots Association. Aarne was one of the members instrumental in developing the current airstrip for the Three Hills Airport. Aarne had the pleasure of flying 2 Ultra-Lite aircrafts which were built in Trochu, a Gama-Gobee for Larue Smith et al, and a Jodel-D9 built by Art Pierce, Art Meding, Pat McKee and Aarne. This "work of Art" is now located at the Reynolds Museum in Wetaskawin, Alberta. Aarne was a member of the Trochu Community Band from 1952-1978, playing the Sousaphone and was the last Band Master. He has been a member of the Trochu Rifle and Pistol Association since 1952. He has been a member of the Trochu Fire Department since 1957, his roles have covered Fire Chief, Trainer and Arson Investigator. We understand he is the oldest active volunteer firefighter in the Province of Alberta. He also served on the Board of the Three Hills Gas Co-op and the Trochu & District Community Hall. He thoroughly enjoyed using his earth mover to prepare the location of the current Trochu Community Centre. Aarne also grew seed with his life-long friend and brother, Sulo. His other interests included cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, motorcycling, pedal biking, metal and woodworking, photography, mechanics, locksmithing, computers and every type of electronic gadget. Aarne was predeceased by his father John in 1979, his mother Sanna in 1991, and his brother Sulo, just 3 months ago. His is survived by his nephew Larry Luoma, nieces Ruth Luoma, Barbara Ek and Donna Perry as well as many great nieces and nephews. The Luoma family would like to extend heartfelt thanks and recognition to the Foothills ICU staff and the neurosurgeons for their professional care and concern for Aarne during his short stay. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made directly to the Trochu Fire Department or STARS Air Ambulance in Aarne's memory. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. at the Trochu Community Centre with Pastor David Lanigan officiating. Interment to follow at the Trochu Cemetery. HEARTLAND FUNERAL SERVICES LTD, OLDS entrusted with arrangements. 403-507-8610.