Northwest control-line stunt flier Rex Abbott of Sequim, Wash., died of a heart attack on Sunday, March 28, 2016.

Rex was a regular competitor in Northwest stunt contests during the past several years. He flew in Old-Time, Classic and Profile Stunt and also flew Advanced Precision aerobatics. He favored four-stroke engines on his airplanes, so his flights always had a distinctive sound.

Rex was a frequent contributor to Flying Lines, and his photos can be seen accompanying many of the contest reports.

Rex displayed a great enjoyment of the model airplane hobby and had a great many friends on the flying field.

He also was much beloved by his family. A Facebook thread contains some details.

Below is an obituary Rex's family prepared for the local newspapers:

Rexford Jay “Rex” Abbott

Rexford J. “Rex” Abbott, formerly of Binghamton, NN.Y., Seattle, Wash., Tucson, Ariz., San Jose, Calif., and Sequim, Wash., passed away suddenly due to natural causes on March 28, 2016.

He is survived by his wife, Carolyn, two daughters, Lynore and Barbara, brother Scot, sister Barbara, three grandchildren, Ethan, Corbett, Erick, and a number of nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews.

While in California, Rex and his family were active in the West Valley Community Orchestra, the Lake Merritt Sailing Club, the Sausalito Cruising Club Winter Racing Series, and SYRA (the Small Yacht Racing Association).

A mechanical-aerospace engineer and high school electronics teacher, Rex retired to Sequim in the fall of 2004.

He became active in several bands playing either tuba or trumpet: Port Townsend Band, Sequim Band, Sequim Community Orchestra, and Stardust Dance Band.

He built and flew model airplanes his entire life. He became involved with the Sequim Boys & Girls Club where he taught the children how to build and fly their own planes.

Rex loved life. He was always out and about, ready to lend a helping hand, power tool, mowers or trailers.

Rex will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life is being planned for the Summer.

Memorial contributions may be made to Boys & Girls Club Olympic Pennisula, PO Box 4167, Sequim WA 98382.

There is also a memorial website for Rex.