 CROUSE, ROBERT J. Robert J. Crouse passed away peacefully in his Albuquerque home on Jan. 30, 2015. He was 92. Born in 1922 in Marion, Ind., Robert spent his entire youth in the Midwest. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy at age 19, serving as a aviation machinist's mate during World War II. He met the love of his life, Hazel, at a dance hall in Marion, famously driving behind her as she walked home that night, persisting until she agreed to accept a lift. The couple, who married in 1943, raised their five children in Indiana and Maine before an engineering job at Sandia National Laboratories brought Robert and the family to Albuquerque more than 50 years ago. Those who knew Robert rarely found themselves in the company of someone more clever. Well-read and well-traveled, he was always the best "Jeopardy" player in the room. Known for his integrity and fortitude - and an insatiable sweet tooth - he was also incredibly funny. His wit never failed him, even in his final days. Robert liked music and loved a good road trip, but he was never happier than when his home was filled with family, laughter and a delicious dessert. He will be deeply missed. Robert was preceded in death by his eldest son, Donald Crouse; his siblings, Ernest, Gene, Polly and Raymond; and his parents, Errol and Gertrude. He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Hazel; children, David Crouse and wife Connie; Carolyn Greathouse and husband, Greg; James Crouse; and Linda Dyer; his daughter-in-law, Lupe Crouse; his 12 grandchildren: Marion, Michael, Gary, Jared, Zac, Neil, Andy, Rachel, Jessica, Ryan, Nathan and Stacey; his 19 great-grandchildren; and countless other loved ones. At his request, there will be no funeral service, but the family will honor his life with a small gathering at the Santa Fe National Cemetery.
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