EAA Launches Tailwheel Scholarship to Honor the Life of Pilot Joseph Ermel

Joseph "Joey" Ermel, a dedicated aviation student at Southern Illinois University, lived by a simple, heartfelt motto that his mother often told him: “Just do your best.” In 2021, only two months after earning his license, Joey’s life was tragically cut short in a motorcycle accident.

As of January 2024, his legacy continues to soar through the Experimental Aircraft Association’s newly established Joey Ermel “Do Your Impeccable Best” Tailwheel Endorsement Scholarship. Created with a $25,000 commitment from his family, the scholarship is designed to support young aviators working toward their tailwheel endorsement, a passion Joey held close throughout his aviation journey.

“When people described him, they simply said Joey was an impeccable person,” Zimmerman said. “He always gave everything his best effort.”

He was a Ray Aviation Scholar through EAA and became the first Ray Scholar to fly Young Eagles, introducing 11 children to the joy of flight. He was also preparing for his glider rating before his passing.

After his passing, when his family visited his dorm to collect his belongings, the room reflected the kind of person he was: meticulous and prepared. “Everything was put in place,” Zimmerman recalled. “His bed was made like you could bounce a coin off of it. A little blanket was folded at the edge. His books were lined up, ready to go.”

Joey’s life and character have become the foundation for more than just memories; they’re now guiding future aviators. “This scholarship ensures Joey’s impact will be here forever,” Zimmerman said.

Beyond Oshkosh, Joey is also remembered at SIU through the “Strive For Your Best” Aviation Toolkit Scholarship, a $2,745 donor-funded award that helps students like Joey pursue their dreams.

Joey’s name is now permanently inscribed on a brick at the Brown Arch in Oshkosh, a subtle but powerful reminder of a life lived with passion, purpose, and humility.

“It’s my faith that has carried me through all of this,” she added. “Psalm 55:6 states, ‘That I may have wings like a dove, and I may fly away and rest,’” said Zimmerman.

FMI: https://inspire.eaa.org/2024/01/15/joey-ermel-do-your-impeccable-best-tailwheel-endorsement-scholarship/