Steve was one of those people you couldn’t help but like. A true gentleman, polite, friendly, helpful and he always had a sympathetic ear for others.

His enthusiasm for flying and his adventures all over the world have left a deep impression that will accompany us on our own life journey.

The NOVA family fondly remembers all the many amazing experiences we had with Steve. For example Mik Broschart, who flew with Steve in China and Kyrgyzstan, said:

“I got to know and respect Steve in 2007, when I became a member of the NOVA Pilots Team. We really experienced a lot together. One of the most thrilling tales was during the 2015 X-Alps, when Steve’s supporter had to withdraw and I had to step up at the last minute. When we met up in the evening, a terrible storm was brewing which made it impossible to sleep outside. Without further ado, we converted my car into a place to sleep, whilst around us trees were being uprooted. But nothing could stifle Steve’s ambition and optimism. After an extremely uncomfortable night he woke up with a smile and continued to the next turnpoint.”

 Chief designer Philipp Medicus also remembers Steve’s passion and adventurous spirit.

“I really got to know Steve a few years ago. We were at my house and late into the night we made changes to his X-Alps Proto with the help of repair tape, scissors and beer. Steve was very interested in all the details of his wing and really had a lot of technical knowledge. His enthusiasm for flying inspired me.”

Paragliding has lost an exceptional athlete and this has left a deep wound in our hearts and in the NOVA Pilots Team. Our thoughts are with his wife Shirley, his family and friends.

We will miss you Steve, as a member of the NOVA family and as a dear friend!