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601 North Witchduck Road
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Juan CROFTON Obituary
Juan is preceded in death by his wife, Bunny.
Left to cherish his memory are his children, Camille, Jay, Bob and Kenny and their spouses Dana, Sharon, Donna and Teddi. He was Granddaddy to 13 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
Juan was born in Newport News, Va., on Aug. 10, 1922, and grew up in Williamston, N.C. He attended Duke University, served in the US Navy and began his diving career in the commercial diving industry as an employee of Newport News Shipbuilding & Dry-dock in the early 40's. In 1949, he embarked on what would one day become the oldest continuous diving firm in the United States and one of the largest commercial diving companies on the east coast, Crofton Diving Corporation. Juan's passion for service and integrity to the maritime industry, for which he cared so dearly, was exceeded only by the love for his family and devotion to his countless friends. He was respected by all who knew him and who worked for him and called him Captain Crofton.
He was formally active in numerous maritime organizations throughout the Hampton Roads Community, including the Propeller Club of Newport News, and in 2005, he was inducted into the internationally recognized Association of Diving Contractors Hall of Fame for his significant contributions to the Commercial Diving Industry. He made long lasting friendships with members of the Hampton Roads maritime community that he dearly respected and loved.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, of which there were many, he pursued life with determination and humility. Juan loved dancing with his beautiful wife Bunny to big band music, traveling with his friends and spending time at Holiday Island. He built amazing radio controlled airplanes and was active in radio controlled flying with his group of flying buddies, but what he loved best was having his family around him laughing and having a good time.
The family would like to give a special thanks to Juan's caregivers, Marti Martinez, Mary Sheets and others from Seniorcorp.
The Crofton Family will receive friends at Rosewood-Kellum Funeral Home, 601 N. Witchduck Rd., Virginia Beach, from 6 to 8 p.m. on Nov. 28, 2011. The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Nov. 29, 2011,at the funeral home. Burial will follow immediately after the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, P.O. Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011, 1(800) 272-3900.
You may pay your condolence at www.kellumfuneralhome.com. View and post condolences on our online guestbook at dailypress.com/guestbooks.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Juan CROFTON
Bill Marslender
November 21, 2022
A good man who is truly missed
December 5, 2011
To Camille and the entire Crofton family,
Please accept my deepest sympathy for the loss of your father. Camille and I were playmates in the old Broad Creek Village housing area on Crestwood Court. While I never met her Dad (children were sent out to play in those days and didn't have much to do with adults) I have scarey memories of going into her back yard and seeing her Dad's diving suit propped up. I don't know what I thought it was, or what it was capable of but it scared me every time I saw it. One of the nicer memories I have of her back yard was seeing green lights across the creek each night at dusk. Was it a space ship? It seemed very modern to us. Turned out it was a new Gas Company building that 60 years later has become a men's homeless shelter. My how things have changed. When I knew Camille, she had only one brother, Jay, who used to pester us to the point of us having to chase him away and calling him "Jaybird." Sorry, Jay. I enjoyed those days of carefree play and games of "Red Light, Green Light," "Mother, May I?," and "Hide and Seek." Do kids even know those games today?
Again, I am so sorry for your loss. I have followed his Crofton Diving Corp. as it would show up in the paper after performing some outstanding accomplishment. And I always thought of the diving suit in the backyard.
Sandy (Thomas) Stacey [email protected]
December 5, 2011
Your Dad was a very special man. I always looked forward to getting a big bear hug when he visited our office. I never saw him without a huge smile on his face. He will be missed.
Marlene Jones (retired bookkeeper, Lyon Shipyard)
December 1, 2011
Bob,
Sorry for your loss. I know your father will be greatly missed.
Terry & Lori Voltz
Traci Summers
December 1, 2011
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Manuel Mota
December 1, 2011
With deepest condolences in this time of mourning as you grief the loss of the family patriarch. May this passage of pain be replaced by the memorable moments of happiness and joy he provided during his life.
Manuel "Manny" Mota, Lisbon, Portugal
Darryl Mcsherry
November 30, 2011
Kenny, sorry for the lost of your Father, He pass away the same time my dad pass away on November friday 25 1997, wow brings back memory...
Darryl B. McSherry...
Amy Barnes Acland
November 30, 2011
I am so sorry for the loss of your Dad, Granddaddy and Great-grandaddy. I remember visiting your home many times when I was very young and my grandmother and grandfather (Mabel and Bill Flynn) worked for Crofton. Your dad had a sweet bulldog I used to call "Boggers", it wasn't the pup's real name, but your dad had a laugh out of it. Again, I am very sorry for your loss, and truly a loss it is.
With many fond memories, Amy Barnes Acland
November 30, 2011
So sorry for your loss. I enjoyed knowing Mr. Crofton. He was an inspiration to many.
Randy Bradshaw
November 30, 2011
So sorry to hear of Juan's passing. We had many good times together with your family, both at your home and at Nags Head in earlier years! Our prayers are with you.
Cheryl and Sidney Barnes
November 30, 2011
November 30,2011
Bobby,
Suzanne & I wish to express our most sincere condolences to you & your siblings for the loss of your father.
Mr Crofton accomplished so much during his 90 years and you must be so proud to have been his son.
Best regards,
Bob Kolesha
John & Elice Schaech
November 30, 2011
To the Crofton Family,
We are sorry for your loss and will keep all of you in our thoughts and prayers.
Sally Spangler-Mazie
November 30, 2011
So sorry for the lost of your Father. He is with the love of his life and his best in life. I hope that thought will give you peace and comfort during this time of lost and grief. The Crofton Family are in my prayers.
Sally Spangler-Mazie
Bill Marslender
November 29, 2011
It has been almost thirteen years that I have been associated with the Crofton family. It was always a pleasure to chat with Mr. Crofton when he visited the Crofton office. Mr. Crofton lives on in the faces of his
Children and though them we will be reminded that he was here on this earth and his departing leaves
a void in the lives of many. Thank you Jay, Camille, Kenny,Bobby, Little Camille, and Sarah for your friendships
during our years of association.
November 29, 2011
Nelson and I did not personally know Mr. Crofton but I know he was a special person. We are blessed to know his son Kenny and wife Teddi, God bless you all . Nelson and Carol Blinson
November 29, 2011
" To the Crofton Familly: Our sincere condolences for the loss of a great family member.I remember he always had a bright smile.May that light ease your grief and replace it with happy memories."
Duane(shaggy) Tammy Shephard & Family
Roger Hammel
November 29, 2011
Kenny and Family
Please accept our deepest sympathy and hearfelt condolances on the passing of your father. I am glad I was able to meet your father and talk to him a few times at Sparta tournaments. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Roger & Lynda Hammel
Susan Thompson Faasen
November 29, 2011
To the Crofton Family: Please accept my deepest sympathy in the loss of your Father, Mr. Crofton. I remember the neighborhood picnics at your house and how nice and generous he was. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
November 29, 2011
Only once in your life does one have the opportunity to grow up among someone that was as great and generous as your dad and entire family. I feel darn lucky I did. The service was wonderful. The photos and comments brought back great memories.
Thom Drinkard
Rebecca Roberts
November 29, 2011
My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this very sad time. What wonderful memories you all have - may they give you comfort.
Rebecca Roberts
ADCI and Underwater Intervention
November 29, 2011
Dear Camille, Jay, Bob, Kenny & family,
We are never prepared for the loss of a loved one, but God is always prepared to comfort us through that loss.
May His presence begin the healing in your heart and soul, and may His love surround you with the comfort only He can give.
You are in our prayers,
The Nester's
Melvin, Kenneth, Jerry & Jody
November 29, 2011
OUR HEARTS REACH OUT TO YOUR FAMILY, AT THIS TIME. YOU ALL ARE IN OUR PRAYERS.
DOUG AND ALICE THURNHER
WO GRUBB
November 29, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Wayne Hunley
November 29, 2011
Bobby and family,
My family sends you our deepest sympathy on your loss. During my dad's days as Docking Pilot and Tugmaster at NNS, he enjoyed his association with many people. Among those at the top of the list was your dad, for whom he had great personal and professional respect. May you find comfort in your memories and the knowledge that others share in your loss.
Wayne Hunley
Don and Anne Whiteway
November 29, 2011
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Connie Thurnher
November 29, 2011
My sincerest heart felt thoughts are with the entire "Crofton Clan" on the loss of such a "Gentle Giant"! I am proud to have had the opportunity to have known Juan Crofton and spend time with him on many occasions. GODspeed indeed Juan Crofton!
November 29, 2011
To the Crofton Family
David Jordan
November 29, 2011
Heartfelt, warm wishes to you all for your great loss.
David Jordan
Dave Severns
November 28, 2011
My sincere condolences to the Crofton Family, over the loss of a good and decent man, who created an enterprise where the concept of "FAMILY Business" remains a core value to this day! GODspeed Juan Crofton.
Jim Riviere
November 28, 2011
Juan was a great friend. We built and flew model planes together. We enjoyed the hobby and met a great group of close friends with like interests. We will miss him.
November 28, 2011
To the Crofton Family: With deepest sympathy on the loss of your loved one. Juan was a dear friend and will be missed.
Buzz, Margie, and Robert Sawyer
Robyn (Little) Baird
November 28, 2011
I have many fond memories of Uncle Juan. My prayers will be with all of you.
Dan Peterson
November 28, 2011
I send my sincere condolence to all of the Crofton family. I am so sorry to hear about your loss.
November 28, 2011
To The Crofton Family:
You are in my prayers. Mr. Crofton was a great man and mentor to many people in our industry. He would always give good guidance to all of us. We can be thankful for the memories with him in our life. I would like to offer my support to each of you in the family.
Ken Mebane
Chesapeake, Virginia
willie lester
November 28, 2011
Kenny, Teddi and family, we all are so sorry to hear the sad news of your fathers death. I wish there was something we could do or say to help you at this time. Just remember how much we all love you and in time as you heal your friends will be here to help... we are sending our prayers along with lots of love... willie and cindy lester
November 28, 2011
God Bless all of the Crofton family, my heart and prayers are with you.
Steve Hagen
November 28, 2011
My thoughts are with all of you in the loss of your Dad. He was a great person and I remember all the fun times we had together with your Mom and Dad and my parents so many years ago. My prayers go out to you during this sad time. Jackie Durden Rice
Cindy Strauser
November 28, 2011
Kenny, Teddi and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Love,
Cindy & Rick Strauser
Emily and Great-Granddaddy
November 28, 2011
November 28, 2011
Michael and Great-Granddaddy
November 28, 2011
A smooch for Katie from Great-Granddaddy
November 28, 2011
Karen Potter
November 28, 2011
To the Crofton Family:
Rich & I send our heartfelt sympathy to you for the loss of your wonderful Dad, Granddaddy, and best friend. Juan was absolutely one of the finest gentlemen we've ever had the pleasure of knowing. His love and devotion to each of you and to his beloved Bunny is truly the great legacy he leaves to you. That is also the inspiration to the rest of us for having been so lucky to witness such a testamony to what it means to love completely and unconditionally. I will cherish the many years of fond memories spent with him. We are here for you all for whatever you need now or in the future. Love you all, Auntie Kay & Rich.
November 28, 2011
Timothy Harris
November 28, 2011
Words can't express how saddened I am to hear of your loss.
Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of Bereavement.
The Harris Family
Tugboat Fred
November 28, 2011
Bobby, we are here if needed my friend.Anything we can do to help you during this time of sorrow, please let us know.God Speed, Tugs, Huntington, Capt. Ambrose & Dauntless.
Mike Voloudakis
November 28, 2011
Camille, Jay, Bobby, Kenny and families, I am so sorry to hear about your dads passing. He was a nice man who always made you feel part of the Crofton family. I know this is a very sad time but you should always remember the good times while he was here and possibly the hurt will be eased. May God watch over all of you and comfort you.
Mike Voloudakis
November 28, 2011
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
November 28, 2011
Camille, Jay, Bobby and Kenny - Claudia and I wish to convey our deepest sympathy to you and the entire Crofton family. Your Dad was a great man who I admired immensely and touched me deeply. Death leaves a heartache that no one can heal, but love leaves a memory no one can steal. John and Claudia Schoch, Hampton, VA
November 28, 2011
To the Crofton Family: Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Mr. Crofton was a wonderful man and so blessed to have such a loving, devoted family. I will always remember his generosity and good times we have spent together.
Cathy and Jim McCullom
Cyndy & Alan Rice
November 27, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Crofton family at this time. So sorry for your loss.
November 27, 2011
To the Crofton Family, my heart and prayers go out to your family. May your memories bring comfort to each of you.
Annette, Jeff, Amanda, Ashlynne and Andrea.
Carolyn Long
November 27, 2011
Jay and Bobby, your forner librarian from Easton Elementary School sends heartfelt sympathy on the death of your father. It is doubly sad to lose a loved one so near a holiday, but you can be thankful for his life. All your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Ann Andrews Fillingim
November 27, 2011
Camille, Jay, Bobby, Kenny and families,
Larry and I were at my parents' home in Pensacola when we heard of your loss. We are so sorry and send our sympathy and prayers to all of you as you go through this difficult time. May you feel God's presence and strength and the prayers of your many friends lifting you up.
Brian Blanford
November 27, 2011
We wish to extend our love, prayers and condolences to everyone in the Crofton family. May God's love comfort you.
Brian & Faith
Brenda Martin
November 27, 2011
Sara, Shawn, & family,
I am so sorry to hear of your grandfathers passing. My sympathy and prayers are with you!
Aunt Brenda
Ray Wittersheim
November 27, 2011
To Camille, Jay, Bobby & Kenny; Words cannot adequately express what your Dad meant to me. As a "young pup" at Norfolk Ship, he always took time to say hello, to explain what was going on and to check on me. I will always be very thankful for his friendship and mentorship and most for just having the privledge of knowing "Capt. Crofton". Our love, thoughts and prayers go out to all of you at this tough time. He was a very special man and will surely be missed by many.
Erica loves her Granddaddy
November 27, 2011
Jenny loves her Granddaddy
November 27, 2011
Cindi Walters
November 27, 2011
Kenny and Teddi. Sorry to hear about the loss of your father. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Steve & Cindi Walters
Charles Jones
November 27, 2011
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
November 27, 2011
Our condolences to all of the family which Juan took such pleasure in having. When we met in 1984 he immediately felt like a brother and we enjoyed them immensely. You must be very proud of the life he lived.
Russ and Dorothy Prince
November 27, 2011
What fond memories I have growing up on the waterfront with the entire Crofton family. The Maritime Industry, and all of those in it, have truly been blessed to have had such a gentlemen as Mr. Crofton to look up to. I feel as though I have been a part of the Crofton Family most of my adult life and I will forever cherish my memories of Mr. Crofton and his beautiful wife "Bunny". May you both be together dancing once again to a love song that will never end!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
With Heartfelt Respect
And Great Admiration,
Wayne T.
November 27, 2011
To: kenny, Bobby, Jay, and Camil:
I saw where you father died Friday. My condolences are with you and your families. i will always remember how him and my father K.t. became best friends. That's why i sent you all the picture I took of their last meeting. K.T. 's death will be a year Dec. 19. so it has been less than a year between the losses of both. Juan Crothon and K.T. Smith.
Nathan Smith
Walter Lawson
November 27, 2011
To the Crofton Family: My sincere condolences in the loss of Juan. With the passage of time may you all find peace, healing and comfort.
Some years ago, Juan was a true friend to me in a time of great need. He will be missed.
Peter & Blythe Kolb
November 27, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Crofton Family. Juan was a remarkable man of the highest caliber.
Tim Axsom
November 27, 2011
Bobby and Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Tanya Roberts
November 27, 2011
Those we love don't go away,
They walk beside us every day,
Unseen, unheard, but always near,
Still loved, still missed and very dear.
I met Mr..Crofton a very long time ago through his son Kenny and family. I would enjoy seeing him at the Christmas gatherings and hearing his stories and seeing how he would light up when his family was around him. He was so proud of all his children and their accomplishments. He is back with Bunny again dancing once again to the music they loved. Glad I had the honor of meeting Mr. Crofton in this life and look forward to seeing again one day. Peace be still and may God lay his healing hand on all the family and friends to help them through.
Love, Tanya Roberts
Showing 1 - 68 of 68 results
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Rosewood-Kellum Funeral Home & Rosewood Memorial Park601 North Witchduck Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23462
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