Biography: Mason Christopher Mauldin, age 31 (born August 26, 1981 in Little Rock), a Little Rock pilot and musician, died Thursday, January 24, 2013, in a plane crash near Monroe, Louisiana. He is survived by his father and mother, Bill and Jan Mauldin of Little Rock, his brother Damon Mauldin (Lisa) of Decatur, Georgia, and his sister, Dayna Gober (Reggie) of Little Rock. He is also survived by his nieces, Melissa and Natalie Mauldin of Decatur, Georgia, and his nephews, Tyson and Collins Gober of Little Rock. He leaves behind many loved uncles, aunts, and cousins. He will be dearly missed by many friends and co-workers from the local music, restaurant, and aviation industries. A graduate of Central High School, Mason attended UALR and the University of Dallas. He subsequently graduated with honors from Pulaski Technical College. He was the first recipient of an Associate?s Degree in Aviation from Pulaski Tech. At the time of his death he was pursuing his Bachelor of Science Degree in Aviation Science from Utah Valley University while also serving as a flight instructor through Central Arkansas Flying Service. Mason was extremely gifted in both athletics and music. He played soccer most of his life, as a team member of clubs in Little Rock, the Fayetteville Comets, the University of Dallas, and most recently the Arkansas Central Soccer Association men?s league. Mason was passionate about music and contributed significantly to the local music scene as the front man of the bands, Sugar and the Raw and Big Boots. Most recently he was performing with the group Collin vs. Adam. A memorial to celebrate Mason?s life will be held at 2 pm Saturday, February 2, at Robinson Center Exhibition Hall (first floor) at 426 West Markham, Little Rock, AR 72201. Please feel free to dress casually. Wearing red in remembrance of Mason is suggested. In lieu of flowers or gifts, please make donations to Pulaski Technical College for The Mason Mauldin Aviation Scholarship Fund, 3000 West Scenic Drive, North Little Rock, AR 72218. Arrangements by Ruebel Funeral Home, www.ruebelfuneralhome.com.
I didn't know Mason for very long, but it didn't take long to realize that he was a genuine and talented guy. When he talked about music, his love for it was obvious, and his love of flying was obvious from his patience as an instructor and the way he smiled every time we rolled down the runway. It was a privilege to be his student, and I very much wish I and others who hadn't yet had the opportunity could have gotten to know him better.
My deepest condolences to his family and friends.