Vintage Aviation News is deeply saddened to report the passing of renowned nose art artist Gary Velasco, a longtime friend and supporter of VAN whose work left a lasting impression across the warbird and aviation community. Best known for his hand-painted nose art on restored military aircraft, leather jackets, and metal panels, Gary was widely regarded as one of the finest artists in the field, blending historical authenticity with unmistakable personality and craftsmanship. For decades, Velasco’s artwork could be found on some of the world’s most recognizable warbirds. His hand-painted nose art adorned restored WWII bombers and fighters, helping bring these historic aircraft back to life with the same spirit and individuality they carried during wartime service. Owners and restorers sought him out not only for his artistic talent, but also for his deep respect for aviation history and his dedication to getting every detail right.
Gary’s work stood apart because it was never simply decorative. He understood the history, culture, and personal significance behind wartime nose art, and he approached every project with a genuine appreciation for the crews and veterans connected to the aircraft. Whether recreating period-correct artwork from faded wartime photographs or designing original commemorative pieces inspired by the golden age of military aviation, his work carried authenticity that resonated deeply within the warbird community. Beyond aircraft, Gary also became highly respected for his painted leather jackets and metal panel artwork. His custom-painted jackets became prized possessions for collectors, pilots, and veterans alike, each one uniquely handcrafted in his signature style. His metal panel pieces similarly captured the look and feel of authentic aircraft skin, often featuring weathered finishes, rivet details, squadron markings, and classic pin-up imagery inspired by WWII-era nose art traditions.
What made Gary especially beloved within the aviation world, however, was not simply his artistic ability, but his personality and passion. Friends and colleagues knew him as a gifted storyteller, musician, and larger-than-life character whose enthusiasm for aviation and life itself was contagious. He was equally comfortable discussing wartime history with veterans, painting in a hangar beside a warbird restoration, or performing music with friends late into the evening. Throughout the years, Gary became a familiar face at airshows, museum events, and aviation gatherings around the country. His live painting demonstrations often attracted crowds fascinated by the old-school techniques and craftsmanship involved in traditional nose art. In an era increasingly dominated by digital graphics and vinyl decals, Gary remained committed to hand-painted artistry, preserving a tradition that dated back to the combat airfields of WWII.
In recent years, Gary faced one of the greatest challenges of his life after being diagnosed with ALS, a devastating neurodegenerative disease. Despite the progressive effects of the illness, friends consistently described his determination and spirit as unbroken. While ALS gradually limited his physical abilities, it never diminished his creativity, humor, or passion for the aviation world he loved so much. Throughout his battle with the disease, Gary was supported by his partner, Dawn Townsend Evans, whose devotion and care became a constant source of strength during an extraordinarily difficult period. Friends close to the couple frequently acknowledged the incredible support she provided as Gary continued facing the daily realities of ALS. He is also survived by his children, family, and countless friends throughout the aviation and music communities.
Vintage Aviation News previously featured Gary’s story in Matt Jolley’s article, “Gary Velasco: Painting on Fighting Fate,” which explored both his remarkable career and his determination in confronting ALS. The article offered readers an intimate look into Gary’s life, his work, and the resilience that defined him during his later years. To listen to Matt Jolley’s interview with Gary Velasco, click the link below. LISTEN: https://www.warbirdradio.com/
Gary’s passing represents a tremendous loss to the aviation community, particularly to those involved in preserving the artistry and traditions associated with historic military aircraft. Nose art has long been one of the most personal and recognizable elements of wartime aviation history, and few modern artists contributed more to keeping that tradition alive than Gary Velasco. His work will continue to fly aboard restored warbirds, appear in museums and private collections, and inspire new generations of aviation enthusiasts and artists. Every hand-painted panel, leather jacket, and aircraft nose section he completed serves as a lasting reminder of both his extraordinary talent and his deep connection to aviation history. More importantly, Gary will be remembered for the friendships he built and the passion he shared so generously with others. Whether through art, music, storytelling, or simple conversation in a hangar or at an airshow, he left a lasting impression on nearly everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. On behalf of everyone at Vintage Aviation News, we extend our deepest condolences to Dawn Townsend Evans, Gary’s children, family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched through his artwork, kindness, and enduring spirit. If you wish to support Dawn and Gary’s family, click HERE. Rest in peace, Gary Velasco. Your art and legacy will continue to fly for years to come.
(Image credit: Ricardo Von Puttkammer)
