STATCARE's Robbie Robinson dies

By JOHN HULTGREN
Kentucky EMS Connection

LOUISVILLE — STATCARE EMS Pilot Robert Robinson died at his home in Greenville, Indiana, Monday evening following an illness.

Robinson, 60, was one of the first two pilots when SKYCARE became the first civilian helicopter medical program in Kentucky in 1982. SKYCARE merged with STAT Flight in 1998 to become STATCARE. He was the 2004 recipient of the Kentucky Chapter, Association of Air Medical Services Wings Award.

Robinson was an Army and Air Force veteran of the Vietnam War and a member of Christ United Methodist Church in Georgetown, Indiana.

"We remember Robbie as a dedicated EMS pilot who enjoyed his work," said John Blumenstock, STATCARE's executive director. "Robbie was a strong advocate of Instrument Flight Rules and was key in convincing the hospital about the value of IFR."

Upon leaving the military, Robinson began his civilian career with the Orlando Florida Sheriff's Department. He transitioned to St. Louis Helicopter Airways in 1979 and joined CJ Systems Aviation Group when CJ took over the SKYCARE contract. 

Robinson is survived by his wife, Meredith, a 9-year-old son, Theodore, son Ryan Robinson of Tampa, Florida, a sister, Patricia Robinson of Tallahassee, Florida, and two granddaughters.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm on Thursday at the Kraft Funeral Home, 2776 Charlestown Road, in New Albany, Indiana (812-981-2410). The funeral will be held Friday at 2:00 p.m. at the Kraft Graceland Chapel located at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Greenlawn Cemetery in Greenville, Indiana.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to Hospice of Southern Indiana. If you would like to send condolences to the family, the home address is: 9871 Tom Evans Road, Greenville, Indiana 47124

Those who worked with or knew Robinson are welcome to share their memories on STATCARE's Virtual Remembrance Book. When Theo grows up he "wants to be a helicopter pilot like his dad." Robinson''s wife has expressed her desire to have all who knew Robbie record their thoughts and remembrances of him on the Virtual Remembrance Book. She would like their son to know his dad is remembered by his friends and colleagues.

Copyright © 2004 The Kentucky EMS Connection. All rights reserved. News stories may be copyrighted by another organization. Original material may be reproduced provided source is credited.