Octorara Area School District’s board president, 65-year-old Sam Ganow, died on Thursday, Feb. 1, when the plane he was flying crashed, writes Abigail Adams for People.

The twin-engine plane went down in the 600 block of Old Wilmington Road at around 1:30 PM, just two minutes after Ganow took off from Chester County Airport. Ganow was the sole occupant onboard and was pronounced dead at the crash scene. 

Ganow was a cherished member of the Octorara community. Superintendent Dr. Steven Leever said, “His commitment to education and his tireless efforts to enhance the educational experience for our students made a lasting impact on our school district.” Ganow was a school board member for 26 years and owned an equipment rental business. 

Ganow was incredibly committed to his community, he also served as a Senior Alpine Official and ACC chairman for the Pennsylvania Alpine Racing Association. 

“During this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with Sam’s family,” said Leever. Ganow was described as a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and community member. 

The Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board are currently investigating the plane crash. 

Read more about Sam Ganow and the Chester County plane crash at People. 

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