Dec. 5, 1919 - Aug. 10, 2015
Robert Errett Crum, 95, passed away peacefully at home on August 10, 2015 in Carson City, Nevada. Robert was born to Errett Ross Crum and Grace Elizabeth Bailey Crum on December 5, 1919 in Berkeley, California. He was raised on an apricot and almond ranch along Putah Creek outside Winters, California. He graduated from Davis High School in Davis, California in 1938 and from UC Berkeley with a bachelor’s degree in agricultural economics in 1942. He had many childhood adventures with brothers William and George. The three brothers, unaccompanied by their parents, drove the family Model A Ford across the country to attend the World’s Fair in Chicago in 1934. They experienced 17 flat tires and lots of hospitality from helpful strangers during the 8,000-mile trip. Robert was 15 years of age. Robert and George were also well known for their adventures piloting a Curtis-Wright Junior plane during their teen years. Their escapades included Robert executing a perfect landing in an alfalfa field after the propeller fell off the plane. Robert’s flying experience led to serving in the U.S. Army Air Force during World War II as a flight instructor. Following World War II, Robert returned to the family ranch in Winters and married Gladys Eleanor Turner in 1947. Robert and Gladys purchased and operated an almond ranch in Chico, California, from 1955 to 1968. After selling the ranch in Chico, Robert worked as an investment banker with United California Bank. He and Gladys invested in Glass Mountain Block and moved to Carson City in 1972. Robert retired as president of Glass Mountain Block in Carson City in 1979.
Robert is survived by wife Gladys; son Robert Crum of Carson City; daughter Carol Gaston and grandson Jeffrey Wedell of Chico; grandson Mark Wedell of Denver, Colorado; and one great-grandson. He was pre-deceased by his parents, son Gerald, and brothers William and George. In remembering Robert, his family recalls, “He always loved a good joke.” A memorial service will be held September 14 at 11 a.m. at the United Methodist Church, 212 North Division St., Carson City, NV. A private interment will follow in the future.