Robert L. Crosby, “Bob”, age 90, a long-time resident of Reading, MA, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2022.
Bob was born in Medford, MA, on July 14, 1931; he was the dear son of the late John and Evelyn Crosby. Bob was raised and educated in Belmont; he went on to graduate from Belmont High School, where he was a talented athlete, especially in track.
On June 29, 1951, Bob enlisted in the United States Coast Guard during the Korean War. Following four years of active duty, he was honorably discharged on June 28, 1954, and returned home to his family.
In 1957, Bob, married “his sweetheart” Dorothy Washburn; the couple shared over 64 years of marriage, raised two wonderful sons and had a lot of fun together with family and friends throughout the years. Bob and Dorothy moved to Reading over 54 years ago where they raised their family and enjoyed being part of the community. Bob and Dorothy loved to entertain; they threw great Labor Day parties and had an “open door” policy at their home, where all were welcome.
Bob and Dorothy also enjoyed dancing; they were very talented and had great rhythm. They, along with their friends enjoyed ballroom dancing at the Star Dust Lounge in Reading for many years; they were always in sync and beautiful to watch as they glided across the dance floor.
Bob worked hard to provide for his family, for more than 46 years he was a Sales Representative for the B.L. Makepeace Company. Bob’s endearing personality and genuine work ethic made him quite successful throughout the years.
Bob will be fondly remembered as a “great guy”, he was a humble man who would go out of his way to do for others. Bob had a quiet demeanor but a great sense of humor; he loved his family and friends unconditionally and will forever be in the hearts of those he touched.
Bob was the beloved husband of Dorothy R. (Washburn) Crosby of Reading, devoted father of Robert L. “Bob” Crosby, Jr. & his wife Donna of Tewksbury, formerly of Wilmington and Richard P. Crosby of Manchester Center, VT. Loving “Grandpa” of Kelly Giordano & husband Mark, Kristen Kincaid & husband Matt, and the late Christopher Crosby. “Great-Grandpa” of Joey & Anthony Giordano and Ben & Jake Kincaid. Dear son of the late John A. and Evelyn R. (Sands) Crosby, brother of Cathy Learson of South Hamilton, the late Evelyn Neelon and the late Jack Crosby. Brother-in-law of Shirley McKenna, the late Helen Baratz, Robert Washburn and George Washburn. Bob is survived by many nieces, nephews and their families.
Family and friends will gather for Visiting Hours at the Nichols Funeral Home, 187 Middlesex Ave. (Rte. 62), Wilmington, MA, on Tuesday, March 15th from 9:00-11:00 a.m. followed by a Service to Celebrate Bob’s life at 11:00 a.m. Interment will take place in Wood End Cemetery, Reading, MA.
