Armand Sigalla
Armand Sigalla passed away on July 3, 2008, at age 80. Born in Istanbul, Turkey, on December 22, 1927, Armand was graduated from the University of London Imperial College of Science and Technology in 1954 and the Royal Aeronautical Society in 1956.
Armand spent 35 years helping Boeing develop innovations in aviation before retiring in 1993. Starting his career as a high-speed aerodynamicist, he played a key role in the design of the Boeing Supersonic Transport (SST).
He possessed a unique blend of mathematical expertise and a deep understanding of aerodynamic fundamentals and flow physics. Armand was a pioneer in the development of applied supersonic aerodynamic analysis, design and optimization methods, including the phenomenon of sonic boom. Many of these methods developed under his inspiration, guidance and leadership are still used nearly 50 years after their inception.
Armand worked on many highly cooperative research and development studies with NASA. He was chief of Technology Development for the 757 program, worked in Customer Services and also worked in support of the F-22 by using a modified 757 (the first ever built) as a flying test bed for F-22 avionics.
Armand was a private and modest person. He lived with his family in Bellevue for 23 years, and then lived in a Seattle condominium where he served as president of the association board of directors. Surviving three bouts with cancer, he lived his life steadfastly independent and opinionated.
Armand is survived by his former wife, Diana Sigalla, of Bellevue, their four daughters, Magda Hitzroth, Linda Hedges (Dan), Sandra McClure (Andy), Fiona Sigalla (Bob Westgate) and five grandchildren, Ian Westgate, Kelly Westgate, Bronwyn Westgate, Trevor Hedges and Shannon McClure. He is also survived by his brother, Jacques Sigalla, of Paris, France, several nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.
A service will be held on Wednesday, July 16 at 2:30 p.m. at Washington Memorial Park, 16445 International Blvd., SeaTac, WA. 206-242-1787.
In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to Aviation High School Scholarship Fund: 615 S 200th St., Des Moines, WA 98198. Phone: 206-716-0006.