In Memoriam: Aaron Hogue

Aaron Hogue, one of four managing owners of the Hogue Companies established by his father, Guy Hogue, died Sept. 18 when the jet he was piloting in the National Championship Races at Reno crashed. Aaron, a U.S. Navy veteran with a lifelong passion for flying, was a well-respected member of the gun community.

As a private IFR pilot with more than 2,300 hours of experience and an Aerobatic Proficiency Certificate to his credit, he brought a wealth of experience every time he got behind the Aero L-29 Super Delfin he flew in competition. Last year, he was named Rookie of the Year by Racing Jets, Inc.—the governing body for jet-class at the Reno National Air Races—and clocked speeds in it well above 500 mph.

The Hogue Companies have grown significantly since Guy began making grips in the late 1960s. What began as a one-man operation in a Southern California garage now has four facilities, roughly 300 employees and offers grips, knives and more—in part because of Aaron’s vision and leadership.

“Aaron’s death affects everyone in our September family deeply,” Fred Telling, CEO and chairman of the Reno Air Racing Association said in a statement. “While we cannot change this tragedy, I would ask everyone to think, pray, and to honor Aaron and the passion he had for life, and certainly for air racing. I hope that all who are affected by this sad event can support each other through the stages of grief so we may all begin to find healing. I ask you all for prayers and well wishes for Aaron’s family who were present and witnessed this tragedy.”

Aaron’s son, Neil, and brother, Patrick, are two of the other three co-owners of the Hogue Companies. Arrangements and other family details were withheld in respect for the company’s request for privacy during this trying time. Aaron, 61, was a resident of Paso Robles, Calif.