Robert Edward Custer, (1922 - 2014) - ForeverMissed.com Online Memorials

Let the memory of Robert be with us forever

91 years old
Born on September 26, 1922 in Detroit, Michigan, United States
Passed away on January 18, 2014 in Fallbrook, California, United States

Commander Robert Edward Custer, US Navy Ret. of Rainbow, passed away on Saturday, January 18, 2014 in Fallbrook, at age 91.

Born September 26, 1922, in Detroit, MI, son of George and Caroline Ann Gamstetter Custer, Robert was a member of The Greatest Generation having proudly served our country aboard aircraft carriers as a torpedo bomber pilot during WW II.

Robert was rescued out of heavy seas at night, while being strafed by Japanese aircraft after the sinking of the USS Bismark Sea (CVE-95), during the battle of Iwo Jima. Cdr. Custer was known for his superb flying skills, was trained on over 24 aircraft, test flew, and instructed others in carrier landings as well as drone operation. He was active in the Navy for 23 years. His experience is online in the National WWII Memorial. Access it at http://tinyurl.com/bobcuster.

He and his wife purchased 20 acres in Rainbow in 1961, farmed it, built a home, and were full-time residents since 1971.

Robert's greatest joys were spending time with his family, flying, and growing fruit and nut trees.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, brothers George and James, grandson Michael, and great grandson Ryan. He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years Bernice, sister Patricia Olson, five children and their spouses: Linda (Randy) Hartman, Robert (Susie) Custer, Diana (Thomas) Raidy, David (Cindy) Custer, and John (Susan) Custer; ten grandchildren and their spouses: Robert (Caryn), Jennifer (Scott), Jeffrey, Kristy, Stephanie (Thomas), Gregory (Sara), Robyn, Kathryn, Eric (Tamara), and Allen; and six great-grandchildren: Caralyn, Cathryn, Max, Cristyn, Amelia, and Alexander.

Services will be private.
The Custer family would like to thank his caregivers for their outstanding care and compassion.

Tributes

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January 18, 2021

Dad, I cherish the memories of the times we spent together. We were blessed to have such wonderful, loving parents. My regret is that your time with us was so short. I miss you terribly and look forward to the day our Lord will reunite us. Until then, rest in His peace. I love you.

November 22, 2016

Although I only know his offspring, I can see that Bob was an interesting man who had and full satisfying life

September 1, 2014

Dad, I still think of you everyday, with loving memories.

January 29, 2014

Grandpa, I remember when we were younger how you'd tease us with your 'magic' tricks: finding quarters behind our ears and pulling your thumb off your hand. You'd play with us and build fun things for us to do around the ranch: go-cart track, tree house, bb gun and archery station, trampoline, swimming pool, tennis court, etc. You'd take us around on the tractor and we'd 'help' you with the groves. I remember your warmth and great sense of humor. I'll miss you.

January 28, 2014

Grandpa was one of the most giving people I’ve ever met, and the same could be said of grandma. He was a true servant, serving his country and others throughout his life. I think most of it was spent doing things for others rather than himself. He was a great role model for me, and I’m so thankful that he has been such a profound part of my life. I hope it could be said that when I finish, I was half the man my grandpa was. I can say, even now, that a lot of what is good in me is because of the influence he has had in my life. I’m really going to miss him.

January 27, 2014

Grandpa, I'm going to miss you so much. You were always so kind, loving and eager to share funny jokes. I have so many good memories from the times we spent together. I love you.

January 25, 2014

Remembering Bob's long and remarkable life. Even though he was this age, I know it's still hard to say good-bye. God bless all of you during this time of adjustment.