Pilots came and went, but mechanic Mike Merek was always there. Merek spent 26 years in federal service managing and fixing various military and government airplanes and helicopters. But it was his 22 years with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration managing a fleet of aircraft that included Twin Commanders that fully ingratiated him into the community. Merek recently retired from NOAA, but he retains fond memories of his time spent working for the agency and on Twin Commanders. “My whole experience in aviation has been nothing but positive,” he said. “I’ve been very fortunate.” Merek said his interest in maintenance started at a young age. At 10 years old he started an informal bike shop in his garage to…