CMSgt (Ret) Robert “Bob” Madison Quay, Sr., 82, of Great Falls, MT passed away on January 13, 2021 surrounded by his wife, children, and grandchildren. Bob was born on November 5, 1938 in the family home in Spring City, PA where he was raised as a Mennonite by his loving parents, Harry and Lillie (McFarland) Quay and his sister Dorothy “Dot” (Quay) Reed.
In 1955, at the beginning of his 11th grade year, he transferred from Spring City High School to Williamson Trade School in Media, PA graduating in 1958 as a Machinist. Williamson set the groundwork for his success in life.
After graduating from Williamson, Bob and his roommate Joe Challenger worked together at Tatinal Measuring Systems. He then worked at Flags Company in Pottstown and Spring City Bleach and Dye Company, where his dad also worked. He knew he did not want to work in a factory for his career, so he looked towards the military. His brother-in-law, Claude “Dutch” Reed was a major influence in his decision to join the United States Air Force (USAF), as he had been in the Army/Air Force.
Bob entered the USAF on February 29, 1960. His first assignment was in Omaha, NE at SAC Headquarters with the 24th Refueling Squadron where he was involved with the Looking Glass operation from the start. While in Omaha, he met Marie Kiddish. They married in 1963 and spent the next 19 years moving from base to base, raising 4 children (Bobby, John, Sabra, and Brenda). He had numerous permanent assignments over his 30-year career including San Antonio, TX, Biloxi, MS, Omaha, NE, Fairbanks, AK, Lompoc, CA, Opheim, MT, Limestone, ME, Comiso, Sicily, and Mountain Home, ID.
In 1980, Bob was stationed at Malmstrom AFB, in Great Falls, MT where the family would permanently settle and Bob would meet his wife of 35 years, Sharon Johnson. After 30 years of service, he retired on February 28, 1990.
After retiring, he attended the Pennsylvania Institute of Taxidermy, managed the gun department at Big Bear Sports Center, and worked as a resident advisor for the Great Falls Prison Pre-release Center.
To read the complete obituary and share condolences, visit the Croxford Funeral Home website.
