In Loving Memory of Mike Poznansky — A Visionary, a Leader, and a Passionate Aviator
With profound sadness, we share the unexpected passing of Mike Poznansky, a remarkable individual whose presence left a lasting imprint across the aviation and business communities. His sudden departure has shaken those who had the privilege of knowing him, but the legacy he leaves behind is one built on vision, compassion, and an adventurous spirit that inspired countless lives.
Mike was more than a leader—he was a connector, a dreamer, and a doer. As the founder of the consultancy firm Neato, Mike brought bold ideas to life, helping clients navigate complex challenges with clarity and purpose. His insight into culture, communication, and the human experience made him a trusted voice in the business world. But what truly set Mike apart was his belief in the power of meaningful relationships—he built Neato not just as a business, but as a mission-driven extension of who he was: thoughtful, innovative, and authentic.
A Deep Love for the Sky
While Mike’s influence in business was profound, his heart belonged to the sky. A passionate pilot, Mike served as a former board member of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), where his contributions helped shape the future of general aviation. His enthusiasm for flying was not just about the thrill of the cockpit—it was about freedom, connection, and purpose.
He saw aviation as a way to give back and make a difference, a belief he carried out through his work with LightHawk, which uses aircraft to support environmental conservation, and Angel Flight, where pilots donate their time and aircraft to transport patients in need of medical care. In every takeoff and every landing, Mike brought people closer—to opportunity, to healing, to hope.
His charitable flights weren’t just missions; they were reflections of his character. Mike embodied the belief that the sky was never the limit—it was just the beginning. Through each mile flown and each life touched, he lived with a profound sense of responsibility to use his talents for good.
A Legacy of Purpose and Passion
Those who knew Mike remember him not only for his achievements, but for his infectious energy, boundless curiosity, and warm generosity. He was someone who lifted others up, who asked thoughtful questions, who never stopped learning. Whether he was leading a strategic session with a client, mentoring a young entrepreneur, or fueling up his plane for another mission, Mike was fully present—with intention and heart.
In both his professional and personal life, Mike lived boldly and sincerely. He was a visionary with a compass of integrity, always pushing forward but never forgetting to look around and lend a hand. His path was not about accolades—it was about impact. And that’s exactly what he leaves behind: an undeniable impact on the people and places lucky enough to be part of his story.
Remembering and Honoring Mike
As we come to terms with this unexpected loss, we celebrate the fullness of Mike’s life—a life that reminds us all to fly a little freer, dream a little bigger, and live a little fuller. His legacy calls on us to lead with purpose, to serve with humility, and to always keep looking forward—eyes on the horizon, heart in the moment.
Mike’s absence is deeply felt by his family, friends, colleagues, fellow pilots, and all those he inspired along the way. In the coming days, gatherings will take place to honor and remember him, and the skies he loved so dearly will feel just a little different without him.
Final Approach, Never Forgotten
Though his journey here was cut far too short, Mike Poznansky leaves behind a sky full of memories, a world of difference made, and a community of people forever better for having known him.
We honor him not with goodbyes, but with gratitude—for every life he lifted, every idea he championed, and every cause he flew for. May his memory be a tailwind guiding us all to live with more intention, generosity, and joy.
Clear skies, Mike. You’ve earned your rest.
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