James Kelly “Jim” Kunkle, a highly decorated World War II fighter pilot and lifelong champion of aviation, passed away at home on Nov. 28, 2025, at the age of 103.

Jim was born on Oct. 16, 1922, in New Kensington, Pennsylvania. Fascinated by flight from an early age, he was inspired by the pioneering aviators of the era and set his sights on becoming a pilot.

At nine years old, Jim moved with his mother to California after his father, a World War I veteran, passed away. Jim later graduated from Beverly Hills High School in 1940.

Eager to serve, Jim joined the California Air National Guard while still in school, though he was released because he had not yet reached the required age. When the United States entered World War II and pilot eligibility expanded, he entered the Army Air Corps cadet program.

After completing flight training, he deployed to England in May 1944 and flew P-38 Lightning combat missions across occupied Europe with the 401st Fighter Squadron, 370th Fighter Group, Ninth Air Force, including operations supporting the Normandy invasion.

On Sept. 16, 1944, during his 36th mission over Aachen, Germany, Jim’s aircraft was hit while engaging enemy fighters. Despite sustaining severe injuries, he managed to bail out of the stricken plane and survived.

Jim’s actions that day demonstrated exceptional bravery and determination, earning him the Distinguished Service Cross. He also received the Purple Heart, the French Legion of Honour, among other decorations.

He was officially credited with two enemy aircraft destroyed, and was a member of the Caterpillar Club, recognizing aviators whose lives were saved by parachuting from disabled aircraft.

After the war, Jim pursued a successful civilian career, first as an executive with Paper Products, Inc., then as a builder in the Hollywood Hills.

Aviation eventually called him back once more, and he spent many years in aircraft sales and in the planning and development of airport facilities throughout the U.S. and Guam, where he worked alongside his son Jim “Jimmy” Kunkle for many years.

Jim never lost his connection to the skies. He continued to fly well into his 90s, and until just months before his passing, he continued to visit his hangar at Santa Ynez Airport nearly every day, a space he shared with his son Jim and grandson Chris.

He remained an active and familiar presence among fellow pilots and aviation enthusiasts. He loved spending time sharing stories with his friends, frequenting many local breakfast and lunch spots with other airport regulars.

In recognition of his service and legacy, Jim received numerous honors in his later years, and was celebrated as one of the last surviving pilots of his wartime unit.

He was formally recognized by multiple world leaders, including three presidents of the United States, for his heroism; and he made the trip to Normandy for D-Day remembrance ceremonies numerous times to revisit the air strips where he was stationed and connect with the descendants of families who helped him during the war.

Jim was admired not only for his heroism, but also for his humility, warmth, and deep appreciation for those with whom he served.

James Kelly Kunkle will be remembered as a man of quiet strength, boundless determination, and lifelong devotion to aviation and country. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Jim is survived by his wife Ruth Kunkle; daughter Kim Kunkle; grandchildren Chris Kunkle and Heather Kunkle; grandson Chris’s wife Tori Kunkle; great-granddaughter Piper Kunkle; and countless friends who will miss him dearly.