Mark Colman was a man whose life was deeply intertwined with the world of aviation. Born into a family with a long history in the Air Force, Mark grew up around airplanes and spent much of his career working on them. His time in the Air Force, where he specialized in aircraft electronics, gave him the opportunity to work on iconic planes like the B-52. But it wasn’t just the technical side of aviation that captured Mark’s heart—it was the people, the innovation, and the sense of freedom that came with flying.

After moving to Alamosa, Colorado, Mark took over Depot Avionics, a business his father had started. As both owner and operator, Mark’s love for technology and gadgets shone through. He reveled in exploring the latest avionics, always eager to "talk shop" with customers and share his enthusiasm for what was new. Whether it was buying a laser engraver for custom panel work or flying customers around in the company plane, Mark approached everything with the same childlike excitement. He loved teaching, connecting with his community, and sharing his passion for flying—whether it was offering his employees half the cost of pilot training or taking friends up in the air for the sheer joy of it.

Mark’s love for flying was more than just a hobby—it was a way of life. It brought him and his family closer, especially his son, as they bonded over their shared interest in aviation. He found solace and purpose in flying, especially after overcoming personal struggles that temporarily grounded him.

Through the Mark Colman Aviation Foundation, we aim to carry forward his passion for flight and his belief in helping others soar. This foundation is a way to continue Mark’s legacy—by offering scholarships to aspiring pilots and making flight accessible to those who might not have the means to pursue it otherwise.