Herbert F. Cromwell, Jr. Obituary (1926 - 2014)

Herbert F. Cromwell, Jr. East Lansing, MI Herbert F. Cromwell, Jr., 87, passed away on Wednesday, January 22, 2014. He was born in Detroit, Michigan to Herbert F. Cromwell, Sr. and Naomi Mary (Bright) Cromwell. Herb enjoyed a long, rich life. He grew up in Detroit, graduated from Denby High School in 1944 and was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1944. After the war he returned to Detroit to marry his high school sweetheart, Jacqueline Sullivan, who survives him. Herb and Jackie enjoyed 67 years of marriage and an intensely loving companionship. Herb graduated from Lawrence Institute of Technology with a BS in mechanical engineering. Following his father's lead (one of Henry Ford's original draftsmen) he began working in the auto industry and was employed by the Ford Motor Company from 1958-1991 when he retired as Chief Engineer. His career was exciting and varied, including a five-year stint for Ford in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Most important was his great love for his family, wife Jackie, daughters Linda (Tom) Dufelmeier, Barbara Cromwell, Karen (Bob) Hendrickson. His enthusiasm for life ("Live hard. Play hard."), love of learning, love of people, sense of humor, and joyous embracing of life ("MAKE a good day.") were inspirational. Also surviving to celebrate his life is his brother, Lee (Sue) Cromwell; sister-in-law Pat Catrow; grandchildren Aubrey, Nissa, Aland, Gwynna, Calixto; great-grandchildren Ayla, Jackie, Ada, Maeve, Cole, Forest, Francis, Aytan. Also many nieces and nephews with whom he enjoyed memorable experiences. Many thanks to the staff of Hospice of Lansing--Stoneleigh Residence for five months of exceptionally professional, respectful, and compassionate care. A viewing and memorial gathering will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2014 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Skinner Funeral Home Lansing Chapel. The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Hospice of Lansing--Stoneleigh Residence, 3411 Stoneleigh Drive, Lansing, MI 48910. For online condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com Memorials: Hospice of Lansing--Stoneleigh Residence, 3411 Stoneleigh Drive, Lansing, MI 48910