Michael Steven Ebanks (1981 - 1999)

Quick witted, a dedicated aviator, and a great friend are only a few of the phrases that describe eighteen year old Michael Ebanks. Michael, son of Gerald and Bulinda Ebanks of Carrollton, Texas, added much vitality, fun and laughter to the 1996 EAA Air Academy class he attended in Oshkosh, Wisconsin at the age of sixteen. As one Air Academy classmate stated, “When you meet him, you just have to like him.” Another friend stated, “Once you know him, you could never forget him.”

Michael earned his private pilot’s license at seventeen and began flying Young Eagles shortly after. He had a wide range of interests and talents as well. As a Boy Scout, he loved the outdoors and enjoyed duck hunting, camping, and flying with his father. He was also a self-taught pianist and lover of classical music. Michael had two primary goals in life. He wanted to go to Texas A&M to study Aerospace Engineering and dreamed of working on the traditional Aggie Bonfire. Both of these dreams became a reality. Michael died in November 1999, in the Texas A&M log collapse. He spent life’s last moment trying to rescue his fellow workers.

Michael Stephen Ebanks will be loved and gently missed by his family and friends. His laughter, kindness, and talents will be remembered forever.