Lindsay Glenn Crawford
Oct. 3, 1940-Jan. 9, 2025
Woodside, California

Lindsay Glenn Crawford, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and accomplished aviator, passed away on January 9, 2025. Born on October 3, 1940, Lindsay grew up in Redwood City, California, where he graduated from Sequoia High School in 1958. Following four years of service in the United States Coast Guard, Lindsay joined United Airlines, in the pursuit of fulfilling his lifelong dream of flying airplanes.

Understanding the importance of seniority in aviation, Lindsay began his career as a baggage handler while taking flying lessons at San Carlos Airport. His dedication and determination paid off when he was accepted into United Airlines’ flight school in Denver. Over a nearly 40-year career with United, he progressed from piloting propeller-driven Douglas DC-6 and DC-7 aircraft to flying advanced Boeing jets, culminating in his role as Captain of the Boeing 747-400 on routes throughout the Pacific Rim. Among his proudest accomplishments was serving as a United flight instructor and Check Airman, where he found immense joy in mentoring fellow aviators and shaping the next generation of pilots.

Soon after beginning his aviation career, and with the encouragement of his wife, Estelle, Lindsay rekindled his passion for cycling. He became a prominent figure in the Northern California bicycle racing scene, achieving victories at the local, national, and international levels. His record-setting accomplishments were even chronicled in Sports Illustrated. In 1981, Lindsay was selected for the first American team invited to compete in the prestigious Tour de France. Although the invitation was later rescinded by French race organizers, Lindsay remained undeterred in his sporting endeavors, shifting his focus to other athletic pursuits, including in-line skating, cross-country skiing, and lightweight backpacking in the Sierra Nevada.

After retiring at the age of 60, Lindsay returned to competitive cycling, supported by his wife. Together, they traveled to Europe, where Lindsay competed in numerous one-day events. In 2003, at the age of 63, he won his age category in L’Étape du Tour, a grueling one-day race that mirrored the hardest stage of that year’s Tour de France.

Lindsay met Estelle Mascarin in Redwood City, and the couple married in 1963. They moved to Woodside in 1971, where they raised their two children, Heather and Christopher. Tragically, Heather passed away unexpectedly in 2007 after giving birth to her son, Oren. Lindsay and Chris shared a love of cycling, competing together as a two-person team in the challenging two-week Tour de Trans Alp.

Lindsay and Estelle shared 61 years of marriage, enjoying summers in Europe and exploring Spain, Italy, and France. Together, they pursued their passion for classic cars, showcasing their collection at various Pebble Beach events. Lindsay will be remembered for his unwavering determination, compassionate mentorship, and the profound impact he had on the lives of those he touched. His legacy of strength, perseverance, and kindness will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

Lindsay is survived by his devoted wife, Estelle; his son, Christopher; and his cherished grandchildren, Oren Hill and Callie Crawford. He is also survived by his brother, Kenneth Crawford.

Tags: veteran, sports