Obituaries

Robert Phillip (Bob) Wainscott was born in 1939 and grew up in northern Kentucky. He was a leader in everything he did. At Simon Kenton High School he was president of his senior class. At the University of Kentucky he was president of the Student Government. After college he followed a childhood dream and embarked on a career as a Naval Aviator.

During 28 years in the Navy he logged thousands of hours in light attack aircraft and served around the world flying from numerous carriers. He earned a chest full of medals during the Vietnam War. He delighted in serving as commanding officer of VA-45. The Blackbirds were tasked with honing the aerial combat and bombing skills of Navy and Marine pilots as they prepared to deploy in defense of freedom around the world. His final tour of duty was as Professor of Naval Science at the University of Minnesota.

At the rank of Captain he retired to Georgia where he developed his substantial wood-working skills, made prodigious amounts of saw dust and beautiful furniture in his work shop, and relished his role as father and grandfather.

All who knew Bob admired his integrity and enjoyed his lively sense of humor.

With Bob on his journey was his bride, Cindy, who adored him. Together they lived in 24 houses, raised 2 wonderful children, and explored the world from Hong Kong to Paris to Honolulu. After 62 years of marriage they were still in love.

He is survived by Cindy, by daughters Tara Norman and Beth Cronk, their husbands Ray Norman and Chris Cronk, his sister Suzanne Wainscott, and grandchildren Jessica Hayes, Anna Norman, Sarah Theroux, and Max Cronk.

Bob’s ashes will be interred in Arlington National Cemetery where Cindy will join him. Donations in his name can be made to any organization that supports veterans.