Bob Windt (right) learns from the Cordova Fire Protection District that everything he owns has been destroyed.

The hovercraft world is joining forces to assist Bob Windt, whose Cordova, Illinois USA home of 32 years was destroyed in a tragic fire on January 13. Fortunately, Windt was not injured; he was teaching an after-school program at the time his life's work went up in flames.

Windt lost everything in the fire, including his workshop and three hovercraft, as well as a new generation wing-in-ground-effect craft (WIG) awaiting its maiden flight on Saturday. A man who has dedicated his life to introducing students to hovercraft is now left with little but memories. The only salvageable mementos from his property were two cabinets containing his scorched, waterlogged photo collections of students he has mentored and taught to build hovercraft. "He took these kids and turned them into productive people," said Cassie Steffen of Cordova.

Sadly, Windt's property and possessions were not insured. A man who has given so much to others now must rely on others.

It has long been said that hovercrafters worldwide are one big family. As any family would do, the hovercraft world is joining forces to help one of their own. On the morning after the fire, more than 100 local students whose lives were touched by Windt arrived to help clean up the debris, and aid is pouring in from hovercrafters throughout the United States.

In recognition of his contributions to hovercraft education and his positive influence on the lives of so many students, we encourage everyone in the hovercraft world to help Bob Windt rebuild his own life. Monetary donations to the relief fund established his name are most welcome:

To donate via PayPal, go to http://www.hoverclubofamerica.org/clickandgive.html

To donate via mail, send checks to:

Metrobank, N.A.
Bob Windt Benefit Fund
c/o Pam Noel
1523 8th Street
East Moline, Illinois 61244
http://www.metrobankonline.com

The charred remains of a hovercraft pulled from Mr. Windt's workshop.

News coverage:

Fire destroys "Mr. Cordova's" home

Community helps "Mr. Cordova" pick up the pieces

Help pours in from across the country for "Mr. Cordova"

Cordova rallies to help popular citizen