Robert E. McKinstry

Robert Emmett McKinstry died on March 19, 2012. He was born October 12, 1922, in Chicago, Illinois, where he spent his childhood years growing up in the suburb of Hinsdale, IL. Mr. McKinstry attended and graduated from Culver Military Academy in 1941. It was there that he met his wife, Helen Jane, who was the daughter of the director of admissions, John W. Henderson. He attended Cornell University to study industrial engineering, but was interrupted by the call to WWII. He joined the army as a lieutenant and later joined the Army Air Corps. There, he became a fighter pilot instructor for U.S. pilots and also Chinese officer pilots. Following the war, he and his bride lived on and worked the family farm in Elburn, IL, with their children. A short time later, the family moved back to Hinsdale when he began a long career with United Airlines where he was able to pursue his love of flying. He flew many different planes over his career, from DC-3 cargo planes to the modern jets. He retired in 1982 as the senior pilot flying the jumbo 747 jet. His favorite plane to fly, however, was the sleek 727, which he referred to as a flying sports car. After retirement, Mr. McKinstry continued to fly for Whalen Industries out of Easton, MD. Mr. McKinstry was instrumental in the development of the Easton Airport as a major hub for corporate planes. During his career with United, he and his wife moved to Annapolis, MD, in 1965, where they were members of the Annapolis Yacht Club. In 1972, they relocated to Easton, on the Eastern Shore, where they pursued a life and love affair with the area. The McKinstrys were members of the Tred Avon Yacht Club, Talbot County Country Club, and The Sailing Club of the Chesapeake. They spent many days and weeks cruising the Chesapeake Bay and points beyond with family and close friends. Bob McKinstry will be greatly missed by all. His beloved wife, Helen Jane, passed away on May 1, 2010. He is survived by four children; Michael W McKinstry of Colorado Springs, CO, Anne M. Dunnington-Siergiej of Ambler, PA, Mary M. Marriner of Marietta, GA, and Robert E McKinstry, Jr. of Palm Bay, FL; his sister, Mary Turk of Pasadena, CA; seven grandchildren; one step-grandchild; and thirteen great-grandchildren. A Memorial Service will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, March 29, 2012, at Christ Church in St. Michaels, MD. A private burial will be held in Culver, IN. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate contributions to Talbot Hospice Foundation, 586 Cynwood Drive, Easton, Maryland 21601.

Robert E. McKinstry

October 12, 1922 - March 19, 2012