Robert Roy Crawford

BRADLEY—Robert R. “Bob” Crawford, 77, died peacefully December 9, 2020 at his residence. He was born September 6, 1943 in Presque Isle, Maine a son of Roy A. and Effie P. (Brown) Crawford.

As a young boy growing up in Presque Isle during the 1950s, Bob was influenced by military personnel from Presque Isle Air Force Base, in particular, a Capt Jerry Hawkins, who inspired Bob to pursue a life in the military. Bob was a 1963 graduate of Presque Isle High School and then enlisted in the US Army and proudly served from 1964-1967. He proudly served for 27 years at the 101st Air Refueling Wing Bangor Air National Guard, working as a base firefighter. He was awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal First Oak Leaf Cluster. As was stated in his award letter, Technical Sergeant Robert R. Crawford distinguished himself in the performance of meritorious service to the Maine Air National Guard, Bangor International Airport, while assigned as a Fire Protection Craftsman from 1 August 1979 to 31 December 1999. During this period Sgt Crawford showed his devotion to duty, he was directly responsible for fire extinguisher training for most of the Air Force and Army National Guard personnel on base. These same duties were carried out when he was called to active duty during Operation Desert Storm and was assigned to Minot AFB, North Dakota. The leadership qualities exhibited by Sgt Crawford are often called upon to maintain and improve upon the accomplishments of the Fire Department Mission. The distinctive accomplishments of Sgt Crawford culminate a distinguished career in the service of his country and reflect credit upon himself, the Air National Guard, and the United States Air Force.

He also was employed for many years by Webber Oil and Dead River Oil Company as a delivery driver and oil burner technician. Bob enjoyed snowmobiling and riding his motorcycle with a group of guys from the base. He was a hardworking and dedicated family man. He enjoyed visiting family and friends in the County.

Bob is survived by his wife of 55 years Judy Ann Sprague Crawford; a son Robert R. “Bob” Crawford II and his wife Vivian of Bradley and a daughter Debra A. Shaw of Ellsworth; granddaughter Julia Shaw; several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, sister Marion Stairs, brother Donald Crawford, and an infant brother.

At this time there will be no public services. Interment with military honors will be conducted at a later date a Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery.