Bob Campbell - A Gentle Man
November 21, 1953 - March 12, 1999
“A love too strong to die… you will always live in my heart.” Vicki Campbell
Bob was born in Albany, New York and was
the son of John and Alice Campbell. At
age three his family moved to Needham, Massachusetts. Bob graduated from Needham High School, attended Colby
College in Maine and transferred to Florida Institute of Technology, where he
majored in aviation. His first
opportunity as a certified airline pilot was with Merrimac Airline, a New
England commuter line. He also flew
twin-engine De Havilland Ospreys for Precision Airlines in New England.
Bob became a corporate pilot for R. J. Reynolds in Winston Salem, North
Carolina, in 1984. He joined Piedmont Airlines, which ultimately became US
Airways. He piloted the B-727,
F-28, F-100 A 319 and most recently was a member of the Flight Training
Department in the Airbus program.
Not only was he an excellent pilot but he also was an instructor for other pilots on all the aircraft he flew. Bob took a great deal of pride in his work and truly enjoyed his profession. Bob was excited about his career in aviation and all the opportunities he was given. A true highlight was being part of the Airbus training and actually flying the latest in aviation technology, fly-by wire. Along with aviation and being a pilot he had a great love for the game of golf and boating on Lake Norman with his wife and friends.
Bob loved aviation, but in June of
1996 he married the true love of his life, Vicki.
During the summer of 1996, Bob was diagnosed with a cancer known as
melanoma. During the two years and
nine months that followed the diagnosis, Bob showed more courage and strength
than words can describe. He was
never afraid of the disease he so bravely battled.
Bob and Vicki took up the fight against cancer as a team united and were
determined to do whatever was necessary to win the fight.
They sought the most aggressive medical treatment available.
On many days Bob was so weak from the treatment he could hardly bear the
pain. He never complained.
Bob was so overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from family and
friends, and often said he didn’t deserve such kindness.
He couldn’t believe all the cards, letters and phone calls from family
and friends that offered prayers and thoughts for both Vicki and him.
He often talked with Vicki about how God’s unfailing love and the
uplifting support from everyone was the answer to how they survived each day and
every new challenge.
Bob’s courage is only one of many
strong characteristics he possessed. His ability to love and care for others was
best exemplified by his love for Vicki. This
love was so deep it allowed him to love a little boy named Adam who he never
knew or held in his arms. He loved
him where it mattered, in his heart. Adam
was Vicki’s son and lived to be only three years old and died 1986.
In his heart and home, Adam was Bob’s son.
At the service to honor Bob’s life, Dr. James Howell spoke of the
relationship between Bob and Adam in the following way: “A man who in
the world’s eyes never had a son, was at this moment together with a little
boy who in the world’s eyes never had a father.
And that is a good thing.”
Bob was brave enough to undergo experimental treatment in hopes it might
not only save him but might also spare others, especially a child, from having
to endure the heartache and pain of cancer.
In his love for Vicki, he celebrated her.
Bob looked for reasons to honor his wife.
Bob is survived by many friends who loved him very much and who have been
strengthened by his courage and philosophy of life during his illness.
Bob fought the good fight and in many ways he won.
He had the courage to beat cancer and even though the disease took his
life, his friends and family know how he ultimately won that battle.
On visits to see Bob during the last several months, all left with a
renewed spirit. He had a way
lighting up the dimness. He always
kept his sense of humor and made the most of each day.
Anyone who knew Bob, and some that only knew him through others, will
continue to celebrate him for the life he lived and the lasting impressions he
made. Everyone who knew him wishes
they knew him better.
A love too strong to die…you will always live in my heart.
Vicki