Heikki Tapani Rika

Heikki Tapani Rika, age 63, of Gulfport, MS, passed away on March 17, 2012 in Gulfport.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Sirrka and Matti Rika; and a special niece, Salome McCaffrey.
He is survived by his loving wife of 28 years, Diane Rika of Gulfport; two brothers, Pentti Rika and Erkki Rika (Terttu), all of Ahvio, Finland; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A native of Anjala, Finland, he served in the Finnish military and later moved to the United States where he became a United States citizen.
He attended Central Alabama Community College and received an associate degree in science and graduated Magna Cum Laude.
His career as a pilot began as he passed the International Pilot Training qualification testing which allowed him to train, test, and receive a Certificate of Training - FAA Course in Aviation Physiology at Macdill Air Force Base, Florida. He completed the Cessna Pilot Training Center Procedures Seminar.
His flying career consisted of serving as a private pilot for many celebrities including Neil Armstrong, Pete Fountain, John Travolta, and Bob Hope. He lived with his wife, Diane, in numerous cities across the U.S. and loved to travel wherever his flights took him.
A kind and generous person, Heikki was loved by all who knew him. He had the personality of a gentleman, never raising his voice.
A funeral service will be held on Monday, March 26, 2012 at 2:00 PM at the RIEMANN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 11280 Three Rivers Rd, Gulfport with a visitation one hour prior to the service.
An online obituary may be viewed and memories shared at www.riemannfamily.com.