ROBERT J. CROSBY
February 3, 1922 ~ May 19, 2013
"He was much loved by his family
and will be greatly missed."
Bob Crosby, 91, passed away on May 19, 2013. He was born on Feb. 3, 1922 to Clarence and Margaret Crosby in Vancouver, WA and remained a lifelong resident. Bob attended Providence Academy, Shumway, and graduated from Vancouver High School in 1940. He also attended Washington State University.
Bob served in the Coast Guard during World War II and was awarded the Purple Heart. While stationed in New York, he met the love of his life, Frances, whom he married on July 4, 1945.
He was a locomotive engineer for Burlington Northern Railroad, retiring in 1982.
Bob was an accomplished pianist and a lifelong sports enthusiast. He was an avid golfer and was proud of shooting his age at 80 and his four holes in one.
Bob is survived by his wife of 68 years, Frances; his children, Peggy Hamilton, Joyce Potter (Dean) and Julie Hamilton (Todd); seven grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his son, Brian.
A funeral Mass will be celebrated on May 25 at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. Mass will be preceded by recitation of the rosary at 9:30 a.m. Bob will be laid to rest at Evergreen Memorial Gardens immediately following the service.
Please sign his guest book at: www.columbian.com/obits.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
4 Entries
I was lucky enough to have known Bob & Fran when I worked at the Vancouver Clinic on 39th St. What a darling couple, always so thoughtful of each other. They lived down the street from my parents (37th St.) They also played golf with my sisters in-laws Reiny & Frieda Thaut who have also passed away. I would imagine they are happily playing golf in heaven...My deepest sympathy to you Fran and your family & dearest friends. Our thoughts & prayers are with you...
Gary & Darla Warner
May 23, 2013
Fran and Family
I would like to extend my sympathies on the recent loss of Bob. I did not know him as well as you Fran, but he had to be a great guy to snare you. Please take care. Liz Schenk
May 23, 2013
Bob was not only a great person to work with but a highly competent railroad engineer. He handled an engine like he was born to it. It was my pleasure to have known him and to have worked with him. Even after 35-40 years have gone by I can recall some of the switching moves we made on the South lead in Vancouver train yard.
James E. Hurley
May 23, 2013
Dear Margaret,
We remember fondly, our Saturday night masses sitting behind or in front of you. Sometimes it was a Sunday morning we would find you there. When our (now 33 years old) son Adam was little he captured your attention, as did our (now 29 years old) daughter, Danae. We only knew you at church but you were both so wonderful to talk to. We regret not taking the opportunity to get to know you better. After we moved east and started attending St. John's church, we realized how much we missed seeing you. Please know that you are in our thoughts and that it was a pleasure to have known Bob.
Paul and Donna Hargrave
May 23, 2013
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