Robert Lewis Crosby

“Bob” passed away peacefully on April 27th, 2019 at the age of 85 surrounded by his family.

He was born July 9th, 1933 in Melrose, Massachusetts to parents, Lewis and Phyllis Crosby.

He served our country in the U.S. Army from 1954-56 and continued to serve as a reservist until he was honorably discharged in 1961.

“Captain” Bob started his commercial airline pilot career with Capital airlines, flying the DC-3, in 1957. In 1961 Capital merged with United Airlines, where Bob continued to fly thousands of flights and safely transported millions of passengers to their destinations. Captain Bob Crosby retired in 1993 from United as a Captain of the 737.

Bob met the love of his life, Dorothy “Dottie” Kaminski, just before being employed with Capital Airlines, and they were married on august 4th, 1957 in Acton, Mass. Together they had 2 sons, Shawn and Lance. When he wasn’t flying, Bob dedicated his time to his family.

He also enjoyed his hobbies of building and flying RC model airplanes, photography, metal detecting, camping and boating.

Bob is survived by his wife of 61 years, Dorothy A. Crosby; his two sons: Shawn R. Crosby (Carla Fitzsimons); and Lance R. Crosby (Susan Crosby); Grandson, Tristan Crosby; Granddaughter, Shayla Crosby; Brother, Phillip Crosby; 2 nieces (Kim and Keri) and other extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lewis and Phyllis Crosby; and sister, Barbara Jean Crosby.

There will be a Celebration of Life (memorial) service on Saturday, June 15th, 2019 at the Flying Circus Aerodrome starting at 12:00. Captain Bob’s ashes will be released above the field at around 1:00. The Flying Circus Aerodrome is located at 5114 Ritchie Rd., in Bealeton, VA. www.flyingcircusairshow.com.

In lieu of flowers, please send any donations to: The Flying Circus Foundation, P.O. Box 36, Bealeton, VA 22712.