It is with profound sorrow that we share the passing of Warren Cilliers, a beloved friend, accomplished pilot, and respected aviation professional who tragically lost his life in a plane crash near the Keystone Heights Airport. Warren, aged 46, was the owner-operator of Cilliers Aviation, where he was widely admired for his exceptional skill, technical expertise, and unwavering dedication to the field of aviation. His passing is an immense loss to his family, friends, and the broader aviation community, who will remember him for his passion, integrity, and kindness.
Born and educated in South Africa, Warren attended Bracken High School and later studied Aircraft Maintenance with the South African Air Force, where his deep love for flight first took root. His career in aviation reflected not only remarkable technical mastery but also a true devotion to excellence and safety. Through Cilliers Aviation, Warren built a reputation as both a gifted pilot and an outstanding mechanic — a professional who approached every task with precision, care, and an infectious enthusiasm that inspired those around him.
Warren’s colleagues and friends describe him as a man whose genuine kindness and vibrant spirit left an unforgettable impression on everyone he met. Known for his warm smile, quick wit, and generous heart, he had a rare ability to make others feel welcome and valued. Whether mentoring aspiring pilots, repairing aircraft, or sharing stories about his experiences in the sky, Warren approached every interaction with sincerity and joy. His humility and compassion were as remarkable as his talent, and his legacy will continue to uplift and motivate those who follow in his footsteps.
Outside of his professional achievements, Warren found his greatest happiness in the friendships and connections he built. His loyalty, warmth, and adventurous spirit made him beloved by many across both his South African roots and his Florida community. To know Warren was to know a man who lived fully, loved deeply, and gave freely.
As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a life defined by passion, courage, and generosity. Our deepest condolences go out to Warren’s family, friends, colleagues, and loved ones during this time of unimaginable loss.
May he forever rest among the blue skies he so dearly loved, his legacy soaring high above in the hearts of those who will never forget him.
