Robert Crowder

We are celebrating the life of Robert Crowder, (a.k.a. Del Clark) who passed away on June 27th, 2022 surrounded by family at the age of 90.

Robert was born in Evanston, IL in 1931 to Harold & Doris C. He is a Graduate of Evanston High School and a Graduate of Northwestern University School of Journalism.

He was an avid storyteller, and could bring the story to life, as if you were there with him. He loved spending time with family & friends, and truly loved all animals that he met in life.

Robert lived a long life with many different lifetimes in one, always reinventing himself at any age, & always believing in being "Forever Young"

Robert served in the Merchant Marines and the United States Coast Guard during the Korean war as a Journalist. He learned to fly at an early age and held a pilot license well into his late 50's.

He began his career in Radio & Television when he was 15 years old as a DJ at high school dances, parties & socials. At this time in his life he also began to develop a love of magicand fireworks, often providing the neighborhood with a fireworks show on his block, (even when it wasn't a holiday). The show was so good, the fire department would wait until the end of the show to write him a citation.

Eventually his DJ days advanced into jobs as an announcer, and he added the professional name of Del Clark. He worked for WBBM Radio Chicago, WJJD, WBEZ, WIND Chicago, & NBC Chicago Television. He held an evening radio show at Jimmy Wong's Restaurant in Chicago interviewing "The Lone Ranger" - Clayton Moore, and many more famous personalities. He is an inductee of the Illinois Broadcasting Hall of Fame.

Robert loved Chicago, and all it has to offer; its professional opportunities, Lake Michigan, Navy Pier, The Palmer House, Miller's Pub & Second City. He could help you with directions from anywhere in the city, he always said "west of the lake". He has a host of family & friends who enjoyed his bus tours that he gave on the Chicago's Gray line, in his later years.

He operated a public relations agency with his wife Suzanne in Chicago specializing in motor sports. They represented Janet Guthrie, the first woman to drive in the "Indianapolis 500" other racing clients include: Tom Bigelow, Cale Yarborough, Dick Simon and Roger Penske Racing. His voice soared over the PA system, as the track announcer for Michigan International Speedway, Daytona International Speedway, Talladega International Speedway and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. He loved the quote written by Pete DePaolo, the 1925 Indianapolis 500 Winner " Drive into the Corners, like there is no tomorrow".

He is preceded in death by his wife of 46 years, Suzanne C., parents Harold & Doris, in-laws Paul & Audrey, and his beloved animal friends (there are many) who sat beside him throughout his lifetime.

He is survived by four daughters, Sharon & Kevin S., Robyn & Dave P., Stacey, Kelli & Joe M. Grandchildren Caitlin, Sean, Kimmy, Ronnie, Samantha, Colin and Madison.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to (name an animal organization). Cremation has taken place and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Professional service entrusted to the Northwood Chapel.