Robert F. Crawford M.D.

Robert F. Crawford, M.D.

age 85, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on April 28, 2014, following a long and courageous battle with vascular dementia. Bob was born on February 18, 1929 in Thomasville, Georgia to John and Mary Crawford. His beloved wife of 49 years, Louise, parents John and Mary, brothers Allen and Jack, and son James Crawford preceded Bob in death. Survived by his sons Robert and Edward, daughter Margaret (Peggy) and grandchildren Hannah, Sarah, Jonathan and Nicholas. Bob attended Emory University and graduated with his medical degree in 1954, and was a member of Alpha Omega Alpha. He completed his internship at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia. In Philadelphia Bob met Louise McLaughlin, R.N. during his internship, and they were married in San Francisco on October 1, 1956. Bob's military service included serving with the United States Naval Reserves as a Medical Officer on the USS Onslow. He was honorably discharged as a reserve officer with the rank of Lieutenant (JG) Medical Corps, USNR.

In 1960 Bob and Louise moved to Phoenix, Arizona to join Herman Lipow, M.D. at the Pediatric Clinic on Thomas Road and 48th Street. The practice later grew to include Leonard Wright, M.D., David Folkestad, M.D., David Alexander, M.D., and Susan Apley, M.D. For almost 30 years he cared for both children and their concerned parents. Bob was active in the medical community. He served as past President of the Maricopa Medical Society, and the Arizona Pediatric Society. He was a Director of the Maricopa County Medical Society and later Treasurer. He also served as Vice President of the Maricopa Foundation for Medical Care. Bob was active as Chair of the Department of Pediatrics at both Good Samaritan Hospital from 1972-1975 and St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center from 1982-1983.

In addition to being a pediatrician, Bob devoted a great deal of time supporting the Mutual Insurance Company of Arizona (MICA) in an effort to offer equitable medical malpractice insurance to all physicians in the state. In 1984 Bob became First Vice President and then President from 1988-1995. Bob later became MICA's Chairman of the Board in 1989 when he retired from his pediatric practice and continued leading MICA until 2004.

Bob and Louise were devoted to each other for forty-nine years, and enjoyed traveling the world visiting over 36 countries. He was an avid tennis player, hunter, golfer, hiker, and enjoyed long walks with Louise and their beloved dogs Max, Bruiser, Tara and Morgan. Bob especially loved fishing, and enjoyed many annual expeditions with friends to La Paz, Mexico. A sports fan he faithfully followed the Phoenix Suns and attended Arizona State Sun Devils football games every season.

Bob dedicated his professional life to advancing the practice of pediatrics and the care of his young patients and their families. He loved his dear wife Louise and his children and grandchildren. As a father he celebrated the accomplishments of his children and consoled them in their struggles, and never with judgment. He and Louise share a great and abiding love and are now united at last for all eternity.

Bob's last years were at Pennington Gardens where he was given the most loving and compassionate care by a team of caring staff. Hospice of the Valley and the physicians at MH7 were dedicated to his comfort. We will always be especially grateful to them for their love and support.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Our Lady of the Angels Church at the Franciscan Renewal Center on Monday May 5th, at 10:00 am, located at 5802 E Lincoln Drive, Paradise Valley. Reception will follow. All are welcome! The family has requested donations be made to the St. Joseph's Hospital Foundation, in memory of Robert F. Crawford, M.D. 350 W. Thomas Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85013. Arrangements entrusted to Messinger Mortuary.