Col. George (Ret.) Robinson

Col. George Robinson, “Robbie,” loving husband, wise Dad, and fun-loving grandfather, passed away peacefully the evening of May 7, 2009, at Home Place in Oak Harbor. He is survived by Rosamond Jean (Campbell) Robinson, his wife of 64 years; sons Bradford and Gary; daughter-in-law Cathi; and grandsons Kyle and Casey.

George was born March 20, 1920, in Bridgeport, Conn., the son of Willian G. and Catherine Dodd Robinson. He grew up in Ann Arbor, Mich. His love for adventure and his family’s long tradition of service to country drew him to becoming a pilot in the Army Air Corps. George became Robbie. After pilot training, he joined the Twelfth Air Force, North Africa Theatre of Operations and flew 50 combat missions in B-17s, before returning to Langley Field, Va. He met Jean on a blind date and the two would begin a lifetime of adventures together.

Robbie flew for Pan American Airways and was stationed in Miami, New York and Rio de Janeiro. He then worked in the family owned land development business before being recalled to active duty during the Korean conflict. He completed his career in the Air Force, serving in a number of posts including test pilot, base commander and finally commander of the Air Force ROTC program at Washington State University in Pullman.

Robbie led an active life, quick with a joke, and quicker to laugh at a joke. He was an avid outdoorsman and loved life in the Pacific Northwest. Each season had its activity; fishing, hunting, golf, boating, snow skiing and traveling. He and Jean designed their home at Mariners Cove and Robbie’s imagination and eye for detail is evident throughout. Christmas was his favorite time and he spread the holiday spirit to all he would meet.

Robbie, Dad, Papa, we miss you. But we are comforted that you lived a full, wonderful life and now reside in a better place.

Robbie’s memorial service will take place at St. Stephen’s Anglican Church, Oak Harbor, at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 6. A reception will follow at the Oak Harbour Yacht Club.

The family wishes to thank the management and staff of Home Place for the care and kindness given to Robbie in these last years. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Alzheimer’s Association, Western and Central Washington (12721 30th Avenue NE, Suite 101, Seattle, WA 98125) or online at https://secure.illuminage.com/alzwa/cms/honor_someone.htm.