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<h1 color="#00141E"
class="Box-sc-ucqo0b-0 HeadingBase___StyledBox-sc-1jlt23t-0 cTwbCP cNDfOi">Michael
Fling Obituary</h1>
Michael Fling, a distinguished leader and innovator in the field of
rocket propulsion, passed away peacefully on December 25, 2024, at
the age of 77. With a career that spanned over 30 years, Michael's
contributions to the design and development of hypervelocity rocket
systems were transformative, leaving an indelible mark on both the
defense and space exploration industries. <br>
<p>Born on April 2, 1947, Michael's intellectual curiosity and
passion for engineering led him to Drexel University in
Philadelphia, where he earned a Master of Science in Mechanical
Engineering with a specialization in Combustion Kinetics. This
academic foundation propelled him into a remarkable career in the
aerospace industry. <br>
</p>
His professional journey began at Thiokol Corporation on Redstone
Arsenal, where he contributed to the development of the STINGER
propulsion system and played a pivotal role in creating simulation
models for the U.S. Navy. Michael's work at Redstone helped
establish him as a trusted expert in propulsion systems, and he
continued to expand his expertise in the years that followed. <br>
<p>At the Atlantic Research Corporation and Aerojet Propulsion
Division, Michael supported, evaluated, and designed propulsion
systems for various Department of Defense agencies. His work
spanned all aspects of propulsion manufacturing and production
readiness, contributing to the advancement of weapon systems that
bolstered national security. <br>
</p>
<p>In the latter part of his career, Michael focused on space
technology. As a key member of CAT Flight Services, he developed a
groundbreaking process to fabricate Fresnel solar reflectors and
led the Off-axis Multiple Paraboloidal Reflecting Surface R&D
program for NASA. His efforts were instrumental in advancing space
solar power and solar thermal propulsion systems-innovations that
have the potential to reshape future space missions. <br>
</p>
Michael's drive extended beyond technical achievements. He devoted
considerable energy to successfully lobbying for research and
development funding from Congress, securing vital support for
projects that advanced the frontier of aerospace technology. He was
also the co-author of several professional publications, further
solidifying his reputation as an expert in his field. In recognition
of his innovative work, Michael and his colleague Ron Puckett were
granted two patents for the "Application of Membrane Seal to Pulsed
Rocket Motors" during their time at Thiokol Corporation. <br>
Throughout his career, Michael was known for his dedication to
excellence, his pioneering spirit, and his unwavering commitment to
advancing the field of aerospace engineering. <br>
He will be dearly missed, but his passion in the field of
propulsion, his love of music, art, and furniture restoration have
built lasting memories and wonderful stories for his family. <br>
<p>He was preceded in death by parents, Wilbur Fling and Mary Louise
Fling. <br>
</p>
Surviving are wife, Benita Ann George Fling; children, Courtney
Fling, Lindsey Fling (David) McNett, Jarrod (Kristen) Fling, and
Matthew (Whitney) Fling; grandchildren, Michael (Jennifer) Summers,
Darian Fling, Omunique Walter, Samantha Brooks, Mackenzie Brooks,
Lucas Brooks, Jackson Fling and Sawyer Fling, and great
grandchildren, Camden Summers, Jase Summers and Trace Tanner. <br>
Visitation will be Monday 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at New Hope Funeral
Home. Services will follow at 2:00 PM. <br>
<p><a color="#247FC3" href="http://www.nhfh.net" rel="sponsored"
class="Box-sc-ucqo0b-0 Link-sc-1u14kdb-0 HtmlContent___StyledLink-sc-ngx07-0 gduWLe jLFkis hRYGv">www.nhfh.net</a></p>
<p>===============================</p>
<p>Michael Fling had TC# 5339 in Engineering Dept. Section 434 over
the period of 1979-1982.<br>
</p>
<p></p>
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