**Shortened Version (Preserving Key Meaning):**<\/p>\n
Ian Epstein, a beloved 53-year-old flight attendant, was among the 64 people killed in the tragic mid-air collision near Washington, D.C., involving American Airlines Flight 5342 and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter on January 29.<\/p>\n
Remembered for his warmth, humor, and dedication, Ian is mourned by his family, including two children\u2014one of whom is getting married soon. His ex-wife, Debi, described him as an outgoing jokester who \u201cdied doing what he absolutely loved.\u201d<\/p>\n
Colleagues and passengers praised his joyful spirit and kindness. A former passenger recalled how Ian\u2019s humor and thoughtful gesture made their flight unforgettable. Fellow crew members lost in the crash were Danasia Elder, Sam Lilley, and Jonathan Campos.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere is only one Ian Epstein,\u201d a coworker said.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"