Richard Crosby Profile Photo
Richard

Richard Crosby

d. December 9, 2012

OUR BROTHER PIPEFITTER, RICHARD GORDON (BING) CROSBY DIED ON DECEMBER 9, 2012. HE WAS A PROUD MEMBER OF LOCAL 455, FOR 47 YEARS.

A so loved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend to so many, has completed his journey from this world into the next where he is received into the arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Richard's strong faith, courage and commitment were exemplified by the behaviors he modeled for others. The lives he touched were far more than we can imagine, and one way we see this is in the number of visits to his Caring Bridge site.

Rich was born August 24, 1947 to Helen and Gordon (Bing) Crosby Sr. He was raised in St. Paul Park along with his four siblings. Rich leaves behind the love of his life and wife of 33 years, Sarah, daughter Cyndi, like a daughter niece Bridget Davis (Robert Timothy), known as Papa to Jasmine and Ashley Davis, sister Barbara (Roger) Riley, sister in law Carol (Paul) Haas, brother in laws Jim Holzemer and Jack Shapiro, along with many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. Proceeded in death by his parents, sister Janet Holzemer, brothers David and Gordon Jr., and sister in law Gail Shapiro.

Faithfully serving his church Newport Lutheran, Rich worked for years as head of his ushering crew, sang in Creation choir, and was an active participant in the Via de Cristo Community. Sarah and Rich were involved in the Marriage Encounter program for nine years. Rich was a Girl Scout leader, a member of the St. Paul Park American Legion, and a passed member of the Washington County Garden Club. Rich served his country as a member of the United States Army Military Police, and he was honorably discharged with commendations in good conduct and sharp shooting. His hobbies included gardening, fishing, and bird watching. His constant support was given to his wife in her multiple callings of service to others.

After a two year courageous battle with mesothelioma cancer, Rich died in his home in Woodbury, in the arms of his wife, surrounded by family and friends. A celebration of his life will occur at 11:00 am on December 15, 2012 at Newport Lutheran Church. 900 15th St. Newport, MN 55055. Visitation will begin at 10am, with Tinnucci's lunch being served by the church funeral committee following the service in the Fireside room. Internment will be held at a later time for the immediate family.

Rich's immediate family wishes to extend sincere thanks to all who have generously supported him on this long journey. Special thank you to Dr. Peter Dahlberg, thoracic surgeon who is gifted with a very caring heart; Dr. Charles Bransford, internest and head of the Lakeview Hospice Center in Stillwater, someone they have grown to love and trust; Dr. Vladimir Hugec and Dr. Vic Liengswangwong, from the Maplewood Cancer Center, who with their terrific caring staff, were a God send to the Crosby's and their friendship will always be valued; Dr. Elhelawani, from St. Paul Lung and his nurse Angel, who took the time to listen and advise; and the incredible Lakeview Hospital and Lakeview Hospice staff who administered the best emotional and physical support. We also thank Rick La Verdiere and Geri Welch from Sieben and Polk, and Steve Hawn and his legal staff who have advocated on our behalf.

In our current state of grief, we may have omitted some of you who have given so much. We seek your patience and offer our heartfelt thanks.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Newport Lutheran Church (to help finance a new air conditioning system for the church), Lakeview Hospice, Family Means of Stillwater, or Courage St. Croix in Stillwater.

Honorary Pall Bearers:
Wally Borner
Cliff Braake
Garland Erickson
Steve Hayes
Roger Larson
Gene Matter
Art Rossbach
Kenny Skyberg
Mike Whalen
Bill Wilkening

Service

Newport Lutheran Church
2800 Curve Crest Boulevard
Stillwater, MN 55082

Saturday, December 15, 2012
11:00 AM
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Richard Crosby, please visit our flower store.

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