Robert Thomas Loveridge

MAJOR ROBERT THOMAS LOVERIDGE
U.S. Air Force Academy Class of 1959

Major Robert Thomas Loveridge joined the United States Air Force Academy’s historic Class of 1959—the "First Class"—from Dillon, Montana. Arriving at the temporary Academy site at Lowry Air Force Base in July 1955, Robert and his classmates undertook the monumental task of establishing the traditions, honor code, and cadet culture that define the Academy today. Robert was a member of Cadet Squadron 5 (CS-05) and the chairman of the Fishing Club. He was known to his classmates as Senor “Pelon” for being the best boxer amongst the cadets.

MILITARY SERVICE AND FLIGHT INSTRUCTION
Robert was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant and immediately entered Undergraduate Pilot Training (UPT). He earned his silver wings in 1960. His precise flying skills and leadership potential earned him a select assignment as an Instructor Pilot (IP) with the 3500th Pilot Training Squadron at Reese Air Force Base, Texas.

From 1960 to 1965, during the height of the Cold War, Robert was instrumental in training the influx of new pilots required for a rapidly expanding Air Force. He logged thousands of instruction hours training cadets and officers in both the T-33 Shooting Star and the T-37 Tweet (affectionately known as the "Tweety Bird"). His patience, tactical precision, and dedication ensured that the next generation of combat-ready pilots was prepared for global deployment. Throughout his ten years of dedicated military service, he rose to the rank of Captain (O-3) on active duty and was later promoted to Major.

A CAREER AT THE CONTROLS OF THE "QUEEN OF THE SKIES"

In 1968, Robert transitioned his extensive military aviation experience into commercial flight, joining Northwest Airlines based out of St. Paul, Minnesota. This marked the beginning of a magnificent 28-year career in commercial aviation.

As a Captain for Northwest, Robert flew various airframes before ultimately commanding the flagship of the fleet: the Boeing 747. Flying the "Queen of the Skies" on demanding long-haul domestic and international routes, he was highly respected by his crews for his calm demeanor, steady hands, and classic Air Force professionalism. He safely guided millions of passengers across the globe until his well-earned retirement from the skies in 1996.

A Beautiful Life with Janice
While Bob’s professional life was defined by the strict disciplines of aviation, his personal life was defined by a quiet, deep-seated kindness. He and his wife, Janice, shared a wonderful life built around their mutual love of travel. Together, they explored the world, matching Bob's professional familiarity with global routes with a shared personal curiosity.

Janice’s life contained a remarkable, lighthearted coincidence: she was married three times over her lifetime, and every single one of her husbands was named Bob. But it was with Bob Loveridge that she spent her most enduring years. Those who knew them noted that Bob was exceptionally patient, gentle, and protective of Janice. In their later years, as they moved into assisted living together, Bob remained entirely devoted to her comfort and care.

In late 2020, both Bob and Janice contracted COVID-19. Bob passed away on December 17, 2020. Remarkably inseparable to the very end, Janice passed away just 19 days later. They spent their lives side-by-side and departed this world the same way.



EDUCATION
B.S. in Military Science United States Air Force Academy
Undergraduate Pilot Training U.S. Air Force

MEDALS AND AWARDS
Air Force Commendation Medal
Air Force Longevity Service Award
National Defense Service Medal

SERVICE ASSIGNMENTS
1955–1959 Cadet, United States Air Force Academy
1959–1960 Student Pilot, Undergraduate Pilot Training
1960–1965 Instructor Pilot (T-33 / T-37), 3500th Pilot Training Squadron, Reese AFB, TX
1968–1996 Commercial Airline Pilot / Captain (B-747), Northwest Airlines, St. Paul, MN
1996 Retired from Aviation