EBF has learned, with great sadness, that Patricia Lamy passed away on Saturday 23rd August. She had been fighting a battle with a complex cancer for several years.
It was Patricia who, along with Karel Abbenes and Phil Dunnington, founded EBF in April 2014. Patricia led EBF as our first President for ten years, in which time the relationship with EASA was completely transformed and entirely new regulations for ballooning were created. Patricia’s skills in diplomacy and networking were crucial in building the strong relationship between EBF and EASA, as well as bringing so many countries together to be members of EBF.
Patricia was passionate about pilot training and her training school “Le Ciel est a Toi” was a pioneer organisation which became one of the first DTOs in France. Patricia was the founder and the main organiser for many years of the Montgolfiades of Saint-Emillion, a wonderful event taking place most years in the autumn, in the wine region near Bordeaux. Though in retirement, she was assisting in preparing the 2025 event at the time of her death; it has already been announced that the meeting this year will be dedicated to her memory.
Patricia’s funeral will be held on Wednesday 27th August near to Bordeaux. EBF will send flowers and a tribute to Patricia and the current EBF President, Paul Spellward, will attend on behalf of EBF.
Fly high, Patricia!