The trailblazing pilot photographer Marjorie “Marge” Beaver passed away on July 28, 2024 at the age of 89.
Marge combined her twin passions for flying and taking pictures into an aerial photography business, Photography-Plus, that documented much of Michigan from above. Her aerial photography was used in all five Lakeland Boating “Ports o’ Call” Great Lakes cruising guides.
“Bing was so impressed with her work (way before drones) and she did all the aerial photos of the ports for all five cruising guides,” says Lakeland Boating Publisher Linda O’Meara, remembering late publisher Bing O’Meara. “People always told us how beneficial it was for them to have the aerial photos of the entrances to different ports when they were cruising. Bing was always in awe of her flying her own plane — strapped in, leaning out, taking photos!”
Marge continued to fly her beloved Cessna Cardinal well into her 80s and she operated her business for over 40 years. When she wasn’t flying her plane, Marge enjoyed bowling with her husband and friends, and raising her five children. She also had a passion for gardening and growing beautiful orchids in her greenhouse. She cared deeply about the environment and was a strong advocate of organic and sustainable farming practices. Those who knew her best describe her as compassionate, thoughtful and extremely generous.
Marge is survived by three of her children, 11 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY MARGE BEAVER, 2011
