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Al Croxall, 96, of West Hartford, passed into God’s loving arms June 17, 2017, peacefully at home surrounded by his loving children. Al was the beloved husband of the late Ethel Sheffield Croxall for 56 years. Al leaves his children Lance Croxall and his wife Marge of Naperville IL, Hal Croxall of Newington CT, Susan Croxall Riba of Glastonbury CT, Ginger Croxall of Putnam, CT and Craig Croxall of Milford, CT, plus eight grandchildren and thirteen great- grandchildren. He was born in New Albany, Indiana on December 4, 1921. He attended Purdue University, graduating with distinction from the School of Mechanical Engineering in 1942. He entered the Army in 1945 and was assigned as an Engineering Liaison to Hamilton Standard while at the Propeller Laboratory at Wright Field in Dayton, Ohio. He was discharged in 1946. He had a fulfilling career at Hamilton Standard for 35 years. He was involved in the development of several systems, including propellers and wind turbines. After early retirement in 1977 he consulted for 10 years, including 3 years at Microtechnica in Torino, Italy.
Al loved the Elmwood Community Church and was a supportive member for 65 years, fostering family support and memories. Al was always a good steward of the church finances, faithful deacon and enjoyed participating on numerous boards and in gatherings. He embraced his journey of fellowship with his community. He was a member of the Old Guard of West Hartford and the Fernleigh Lawn Bowling Club. Al was a 63 year Mason, member of Wyllys St. John Lodge in West Hartford and a member of the Scottish Rite, Valley of Hartford.
Al was a loving husband and father, raising his children in a happy home. He cherished his family. Al was known and loved by many for his character and good nature. His essence in life was to embrace positive thinking and to always be upbeat. He was known to many as “Mr. Excellent”. He enjoyed traveling with his family, including many camping adventures with his Winnebago. Some of his happiest moments were when he transported family and friends to the Berkshires for an afternoon at Tanglewood or when he spent weekends camping with the Elmwood Community Church Campers. A gracious host, Al entertained many friends and family with a joyful spirit. Al had a fascination with trains and delighted in running his elaborate 100-piece model electric train set for family and friends. Always a gentleman, Al will be remembered for his gentle disposition, positive attitude, humbleness, and kindness towards others.
The family would like to thank the wonderful caring nurses, home healthcare aides, and therapists from Masonicare Home Health and Hospice of Hartford, as well as Tracy Campbell, who helped Al and the family make this part of his journey comfortable and dignified. We would also like to thank the many physicians and specialists who took care of Al during his final months.
A celebration of Al’s life will be held at 11 am Saturday, July 22, 2017 at the Elmwood Community Church, 26 Newington Road, West Hartford, CT 06110. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Elmwood Community Church General Fund. To share a memory with the family, please visit www.sheehanhilbornbreen.com for the online guestbook.