Eric Roulston: Heartbroken family pay tribute to WA pilot who died in Ogilvie plane crash

The family of a pilot who died in the light plane crash last week has remembered him for his “twinkling eyes, cheeky sense of humour and huge generosity” and says he has been reunited with his son, who died in a similar aviation tragedy.

Eric Roulston — known by his loved ones as “Rollo” — was the pilot of a two-seater Cessna 150 that crashed in Ogilvie, about 100km north of Geraldton, on Friday last week.

Members of the public reported the wreckage about 11am. Mr Roulston had died at the scene.

In a statement provided to The West Australian, the family of the 67-year-old, who was the chief pilot and owner of Shark Bay Aviation, said he was a “northwest cowboy that traded in his horses to ride fixed-wing Cessnas and helicopters”.

“Known for his big heart, blue twinkling eyes, cheeky sense of humour and huge generosity. He touched the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him,” the family said on Friday.

“Rollo is reunited with his beloved late son Bradleigh and lives on in the lives of his daughters Julianne, Lyndal and Erin and his five grandchildren, his best friend & devoted wife Roslyn and trusty sidekick Pixie the chihuahua.”

Tragically, Mr Roulston’s 23-year-old son, Bradleigh, also lost his life in a plane crash 17 years ago, after the light aircraft he was flying collided with a helicopter mid-air during a goat culling operation in the Gascoyne.

“(Rollo’s) passing echoes across the country, leaving a void in the hearts of many,” the family said.

“Rollo’s life will be remembered as adventurous, always ready with a helping hand, a joke, or a story to brighten someone’s day.

“We celebrate the incredible legacy he leaves behind — a legacy of love, knowledge, joy, and cherished memories.

“We love you, and may you always be forever flying free.”

Mr Roulston’s family plans to celebrate his life and legacy in two events.

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau is investigating the cause of the crash.

One will be held on April 5 from 2pm at Avocados Bar & Café in Kelmscott.

The second celebration will be held at Shark Bay in May on a date yet to be confirmed.