Robert Ernest Adair

Colonel Robert E. Adair, USAF (Ret.), passed away on June 3, 2023 at the age of 99. He was born in Chicago, Illinois to Robert John Adair and Caroline Adair, and was raised in suburban Crestwood. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, June Earlyn Adair.

Robert and June Adair were married for 64 years and had two children: Kristen Rae and Robert William. In addition to his children he leaves three grandchildren: Robert Charles (who married Allison Weaver), Joel Patrick (who married Melissa Derrick), and Lara Dawn Suszynski (who married Marc); and the delight of his recent years, 7 great-grandchildren: RJ, Zachary, Alex, Ryan, Charlotte, Keaton and Ruby.

Colonel Adair entered military service during WWII and was commissioned in the Army Air Corps. He attended Vanderbilt and Yale where he received advanced training in the latest systems technology. At war’s end he left service and attended Bradley University where he earned a BSME degree. After working for two years as an engineer with Commonwealth Edison in Chicago, he was recalled to service.

His military career centered on research, development and testing of aircraft, missile and space systems. He was a graduate of the Air Command and Staff College and the Air War College. He earned two additional university degrees; an MSEE from the Air Force Institute of Technology, and an MBA from AUM. His military citations include the Legion of Merit with OLC which was awarded for “exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services and achievements”.

He was an avid golfer and a long-time member of Arrowhead CC. He recorded a hole-in-one at age 89 and played into his mid 90s.

Most of all he loved and was loved. He was supportive, generous, kind and honest, and he will be greatly missed.