In Memory

Albert Crocker - Class Of 1938

Albert Crocker

Albert Crocker III died July 24, 2009 at his home in Sonora, California.  He was 88.  Born in Kansas City, Missouri on August 26, 1920, Mr. Crocker had lived in Sonora for the past 25 years.

Albert was a pilot in the U.S. Navy during World War II, flying the PBY, an American flying boat, which was used to rescue downed pilots from the ocean.  He also was the chief executive officer of Corrugated Machine Manufacturing in Richmond for 21 years.  He was active in Sierra Bible Church, the Mobile Missionary Assistance Program, and Boy Scouts of America.  His interests included flying, aviation, fishing, and cross-country skiing.  His family said he was a jokester who loved to laugh and spend time with family. 

He helped build the Crocker Motorcycle, which was engineered by his father.  The Crocker Motorcycle Company was an American manufacturer of single-cylinder speedway racing motorcycles from 1932, powerful V-twin road motorcycles from 1936, and the "Scootabout," one of the first modern-style motor scooters, in the late 1930s.  Production ceased in 1942.  In 1999 a new corporation was formed to manufacture replica parts, and now produces complete Crockers in kit form, following the original specifications.

Albert is survived by his wife, Mary Jane Crocker (SPHS '40) of Sonora; and three daughters, Joanne Cumings of Kingwood, Texas, Pat Dambacher of Sonora, and Judi Jones of Santa Rosa; six grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

The Union Democrat, July 31, 2009