Robert M. Krahulec

Robert M. Krahulec of Phoenix, Arizona, passed away peacefully on November 10, 2025, surrounded by his family.

Robert was born in Buffalo, New York, and relocated with his family to the Phoenix area in 1952. He attended Squaw Peak Elementary and Camelback High School (68), graduating two years early. At just sixteen, he enrolled at Arizona State University through ROTC, earning his degree in 1972. Despite his youth, Robert’s ambition and leadership were clear—he served as President of his fraternity, Delta Sigma Phi.

After graduation, Robert married and welcomed two children while stationed at Bergstrom Air Force Base. As a U.S. Air Force Captain, he flew RF-4 reconnaissance aircraft for the Tactical Air Command (TAC). Five years later, he traded his military wings for commercial ones, beginning a long and accomplished career as an airline pilot.

On May 8, 1978, Robert joined American Airlines as a flight engineer after a chance conversation during a layover in Dallas–Fort Worth—his charm and confidence opening the door to a new career. He earned his Captain designation on August 7, 1987, and over the years flew numerous aircraft, including the MD-80 and Boeing 777, from bases in Buffalo, Boston, Chicago, and Dallas–Fort Worth.

Robert was known for his professionalism, humor, and compassion. He never forgot the people he met along the way—coworkers and passengers alike. Following the events of September 11, 2001, while grounded in Orlando, he volunteered to fly extra routes so other pilots could take time to mourn or attend memorials. That gesture of quiet leadership exemplified the kind of man he was.

Outside of the cockpit, Robert was active in veterans’ organizations, including the New Hampshire Veterans Association, where he helped secure votes to restore and paint the veteran houses in Weirs Beach. He was also a proud member of the American Legion Post #1 in Laconia, New Hampshire—where the words “Bingo Bob is back!” always drew smiles—and of London’s RAF Club, where he enjoyed Thursday curry suppers with crew friends.

Robert was a “by-the-book” captain—firm, fair, and deeply respected. As he often said, “It’s not how you screw up, it’s how you recover.” His leadership style and integrity earned admiration from colleagues and inspired the phrase, “Captains be Captains.”

After ringing the bell in DFW operations on October 13, 2016, marking his final outbound leg, Robert retired from aviation. Just three months later, he was diagnosed with GAIT Parkinson’s. He faced his illness with courage, humor, and grace, embodying the same strength he showed throughout his life.

Robert is survived by his loving wife, Judith (Judy) Krahulec; daughters, Carol C. Osteen, Meredith Chapman, and Michaela Harding; son, Capt. Christopher Krahulec and his wife, Sara; nine grandchildren; and two nieces. He was predeceased by his parents, John J. and Rita Krahulec, and his brother, John.

Services will be held Thursday, December 4, 2025, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, 5045 E. Thomas Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85018. Luncheon to follow at the Parish Hall. Interment will follow at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, Phoenix.

Robert’s quick wit, kindness, and generosity—along with his endless library of stories and humor—will forever be missed by those who loved him.