Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Tony Swain

Tony Swain, a long-time COPA member, past Director for the BC and Yukon region, and frequent contributor to 'COPA Flight' passed away on April 3, 2025, at the age of 90. Known for his boundless energy, generosity, and passion for aviation, Tony left an indelible mark on the Canadian aviation community and beyond.

 

Born in Hull, England in 1934, Tony's adventurous spirit was evident from a young age. After earning a scholarship to Hymers College, he served his military service as a pilot and came to Canada for flight training in 1956. Following his service, Tony built a career as an engineering draftsman, working on cutting-edge aviation projects before eventually settling in Vancouver.

Tony’s life was rich with passion and purpose. A racing driver, yachtsman, and pilot, he embraced every opportunity to explore, compete, and connect. It was through sailing that he met Mary, the love of his life. Together, they restored and flew a Harvard aircraft—just like the one Tony trained on during his military years—and spent the next 44 years living life to the fullest at airfields, racetracks, and anchorages.

Tony and Mary, along with their beloved yellow Harvard, Bessy the Fish Lady, were a familiar sight at aviation events across British Columbia. As the Western Warbirds Association shared in a recent tribute:

Many will remember Tony for his contributions to general aviation in British Columbia and Canada, through his involvement with the Western Warbirds, Delta Heritage Airpark, the Canadian Owners and Pilots Association, and the BC Aviation Council. For many years, Tony, his wife Mary, and their yellow Harvard ‘Bessy the Fish Lady,’ were a constant presence at aviation events throughout the province, working tirelessly to ensure the health of general aviation that we all enjoy.

A gifted storyteller and a self-described “raconteur extraordinaire,” Tony’s encyclopedic knowledge—especially about the Harvard—made him a sought-after friend and mentor in aviation circles around the world. His volunteer contributions were extensive: Delta Heritage Airpark, the BC Aviation Council, the Experimental Aircraft Association, COPA, the Jib Set Sailing Club, Westwood Racetrack, and many more benefitted from his leadership and vision. In later years, he also found joy in helping seniors navigate modern technology.

COPA celebrates Tony’s legacy as one of community, cooperation, and kindness. He leaves behind hundreds of friends, colleagues, and fellow aviators whose lives he touched through his example of service and his unwavering enthusiasm for life.

A celebration of Tony Swain’s life will take place on Friday, June 6, 2025, at 1:00 PM at 1407 Laburnum St. in Vancouver, BC, V6J 3W4. All who knew him, flew with him, or were inspired by his life are welcome to attend and share memories of a truly remarkable man.

Blue skies and tailwinds, Tony.