George Marciniw was remembered as a much-loved pilot, parishioner and friend at a memorial Mass in East Hollywood on Sunday, five days after he was killed in a news helicopter crash in Chatsworth.
Dozens of mourners gathered at the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church, where Marciniw had grown up and remained closely connected throughout his life.
Marciniw was piloting a helicopter operated by Angel City Air and providing aerial coverage for NBC4 and Telemundo 52 when it crashed shortly before 7pm on Tuesday, September 15. Reporter Eliana Moreno and bystander Edy Fernando Gutiérrez Mejía were also killed.
The aircraft had been covering a fatal incident involving an LA Metro bus when it went down near Nordhoff Street and Lurline Avenue, according to NBC Los Angeles. A fourth pedestrian was taken to hospital after the crash. ([nbclosangeles.com](https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/chatsworth-news-helicopter-crash-victim/3943565/?utm_source=openai))
George Marciniw remembered in East Hollywood
Father Ihor Koshyk, the church’s pastor, said Marciniw was regarded as “one of our own” by the congregation.
“He was born and raised, grew up in this church, and for us, he is one of our own,” Father Koshyk said.
He recalled flying over Los Angeles with Marciniw, who had shown him the Hollywood sign from the air. The priest said the pilot had been eager to share his enthusiasm for helicopters and his affection for the city.
“He was just such a nice, smiling person, and he wanted to share his love, his passion for flying helicopters,” Father Koshyk said.
Marciniw’s contribution to the parish extended beyond his work as a pilot. Father Koshyk said he had helped the church replace its air-conditioning units, adding that the cool air inside the building served as a fitting reminder of his generosity.
Friends attending the service described Marciniw as kind, cheerful and dependable.
“He’s a friend, he’s a kind man, and always happy,” close friend Mark Billey said.
Another friend, George Yemetz, said the tragedy had reinforced the importance of spending time with those closest to you and making the most of life.
The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the cause of the crash. The Federal Aviation Administration said the agency would lead the inquiry and provide further updates. ([faa.gov](https://www.faa.gov/newsroom/statements/accident_incidents?utm_source=openai))
