Robert Jay Troxell

Lt. Colonel Robert Jay Troxell, ""Bob"", died at his home on June 12, 2014 after a long and courageous battle with cancer, heart disease, and COPD. He was born in Altoona, PA on June 7, 1931 to Robert C. and Verna E. (Coy) Troxell. Robert was a graduate of Penn State University with a degree in Agricultural Engineering, and Kansas State with a degree in Nuclear Engineering. He spent more than 22 years in the United States Air Force as a pilot of multi-engine aircraft. He served a tour in Korea in the late 50's, and in Taiwan flying many missions into Vietnam during the mid 60's. He also worked in Research and Development, and was Chief of Test and Deployment of the Short Range Attack Missile (SRAM) and Air Launch Cruise Missile (ALCM) programs. After retirement from the Air Force, he spent 10 years with Stearns Rogers Engineering Company in Denver. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Nell; daughter Suann (Strider) Ditzler, grandson Robert (Julia) Bonner, all of the Denver area; and brother Merrill (Rose) Troxell, their 3 children, and their families. Our cherished Bob had many hobbies including woodworking, jewelry making, fishing and hunting. He also spent several years researching his family genealogy. Bob was a beloved friend, an especially loving husband, father and grandfather and will be greatly missed by his family and all those touched by his presence. A memorial service will be held Friday, June 20, 10:30 AM at Horan & McConaty Family Chapel, 11150 E Dartmouth Ave, Aurora. Full Air Force Military Honors will be rendered. He will be laid to rest in Alto-Reste Park Cemetery, Allegheny Township, PA later this summer. Donations in his memory can be made to The Wounded Warrior Project, National Processing Center, P.O. Box 758541, Topeka, KS 66675-8544. Please share your memories of Bob by selecting the Guestbook link below.