Captain Cy Lincoln Asta, 85, passed away on July 13, 2025, in Santa Ynez, California. A man of extraordinary spirit and boundless adventure, Cy lived a life that spanned continents, skies, and decades of service, exploration and achievement.

Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Cy grew up in Independence, Ohio, where he attended Independence School for both elementary and high school, graduating in 1957.

He went on to earn a bachelor of science in aerospace engineering from Kent State University, and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the United States Air Force through the ROTC program on Dec. 15, 1961.

Cy’s passion for flight and food defined his life. He earned his Certificate of Aeronautical Training as a pilot at Craig Air Force Base in Alabama in May 1963, and completed helicopter pilot training at Stead Air Force Base later that year.

His military career took him to Minot, North Dakota, with the Aerospace Support Group (SAC), where he flew missions in support of missile operations.

His exceptional skill and leadership culminated in his role heading the Vandenberg Air Force Base helicopter group-highlighted by a VIP flight for Vice President Hubert Humphrey.

After leaving the Air Force in 1966 with the rank of captain, Cy joined Air America in 1967. That same year, while flying missions in Laos, he was shot down in the jungle — a harrowing experience that marked a turning point in his journey.

Upon returning to the United States, he became a corporate helicopter pilot for North American Rockwell. There he found himself among the legends of aerospace-pilots, engineers, and astronauts, forming connections with many of the era’s pioneers.

Cy’s love for aviation took him to Alaska and California throughout the 1970s and beyond. In 1982, he founded Calalaska Helicopters, a company that reflected his entrepreneurial spirit and deep expertise.

For over three decades he flew missions across rugged terrains until his retirement in 2016, completing an extraordinary 50-year career as a pilot of both fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters.

His academic pursuits continued alongside his professional life. Cy earned a master of science in aerospace engineering and systems management from USC, and obtained a teaching certificate from Chapman Teachers College in California.

Cy was not only an aviator but also a builder — literally. With the help of friends and family, he constructed two homes from the ground up in Lompoc and Santa Ynez.

In his younger years he restored old cars with care and precision. He was also an accomplished skydiver during the late 1960s and 1970s in Taft, California earning numerous awards for his daring jumps.

A lifelong learner and storyteller at heart, Cy had a deep interest in U.S., Native American, Civil War, and World War II history. He was an avid reader who found inspiration in biographies and historical accounts.

His passion for storytelling culminated in his published memoir “… And Sometimes The Bear Eats You: Tempting Fate On A Magic Carpet — A Helicopter Pilot’s Odyssey In Alaska,” chronicling his adventures with vivid detail and wit.

Cy’s passion for cooking came from having famous chefs as uncles. Cy learned all his gourmet cooking skills and love of food from Hector Boiardi (Chef Boyardee). Cy passed this passion and cooking skills on to his son Alex and his wife Theresa.

Cy is survived by his beloved spouse Theresa Turner; son Alex Asta; granddaughter Amelia Asta; brother Tony Asta; as well as numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father Cy Asta; mother Agnes Asta; brother Mark Asta; and first spouse Carol Asta.

Those who knew Cy remember him as a larger-than-life figure, a true Renaissance man whose strength, intelligence, courage and humor left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered.

His storytelling captivated audiences; his presence commanded respect; his soul radiated warmth.

We salute you, Cy. Fly high above and look down upon us and keep us safe. We will forever look up and see you in the wild, blue yonder.

A funeral/memorial service will be held 10 a.m.-noon July 21 at Ballard Country Church/Oak Hill Cemetery, 2465 Baseline Ave., Ballard, California.