US crash families thank Aust, Melbourne

The devastated families of four US golfing buddies killed in a fiery plane crash have thanked Australian authorities and the people of Melbourne for their support.

Greg De Haven, Russell Munsch, Glenn Garland and John Washburn died when their plane crashed shortly after take off from Essendon airport on February 21.

The men's wives were on the "trip of a lifetime" with them but were not on board the doomed plane.

"We are devastated by the loss of these men - these gentlemen - our husbands, our fathers, and our treasured friends," the victims' families said in a joint statement on Wednesday.

"We deeply appreciate the condolences expressed by so many in Australia and the US.

"We can't say enough about the assistance, support, and warmth shown to us by the Australian authorities, the US Consulate and the people of Melbourne, who have taken us in and treated us so kindly."

Rye-based pilot Max Quartermain also died when the twin engine Beechcraft Super King Air crashed into the Essendon Direct Factory Outlet.

Melissa Quartermain said her father meant so much to many people.

He was their hero, their inspiration, and their rock and they will miss his unconditional love, she said in a video statement on Friday.

Mr Quartermain's funeral will be at the Frankston Arts Centre on Monday, with donations to Angel Flight requested in lieu of flowers.

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau is interviewing more than 100 witnesses about the crash, and is analysing evidence collected from the site.

An update examining the details of the crash will be released on March 21.