Robert B. Townsend

1937 – 2017

He was a SON: the only child of Robert H. & Elizabeth N. Townsend of Franklin, Indiana. A true Hoosier – he loved popcorn, basketball & the Indy 500.

He was a STUDENT: graduating from the University of Indiana at Bloomington with a degree in Business. He was a member of the Acacia Fraternity and a member of their “Little 500” Bike team.

He was a VETERAN: serving his country as a pilot in the Air Force. He flew the KC 95 and KC 135 refueling tankers during the Vietnam era.

He was a HUSBAND: to the late Jane B. Townsend and then to his surviving wife of 46 years, Paula C. Townsend.

He was a PILOT: serving in the Air Force, and then flying for Braniff International (He never missed a BISE Fly-In from 1982 – 2016), Muse Air/TranStar and American Airlines. In his 30 year airline career, he flew the 707/720, 727, and the DC 9/Super 80. His home base for 30 years was Dallas, TX. He loved flying South America, Hawaii & Mexico – anywhere warm and sunny.

He was a FATHER: to 3 wonderful children - R. Mark Townsend (& Justine) of Marco Island, FL, Lynne Townsend of Todd, NC and Brad N. Townsend (& Laura Beth) of Austin, TX.

He was a GRANDFATHER: to Kate Evelyn and Luke Vogt Townsend of Austin, TX.

Needless to say, they were his pride and joy.

He was a FRIEND: the best friend anyone could ever hope to have. He never met a stranger. He will be missed by all whose life he ever touched.

He loved Marco Island and enjoyed all it had to offer – through the years, it was tennis, golf, boating, sunsets, the Commodore Club and always – the sunshine.

Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, February 18th at Hodges Josberger Funeral Home at 10:00 am.