CAPT Robert K. Doane, USN (Ret.)
ENS Robert K. Doane, USNR became at Naval Aviator on August 23, 1966 at HT-8, NAS Ellyson Field, Pensacola, Florida. ENS Doane was Navy Helicopter Pilot Designator Number R-8570.
Captain Robert “K” Doane, USN (Ret.) passed away on Monday, February 5th, 2024 from complications of esophageal cancer. He was born on June 30, 1942 in Indianapolis, Indiana to Pauline Holt Doane and Robert Kenneth Doane. He entered the Navy as a NAVCAD and received his wings as an unrestricted naval aviator in August 1966.
HIs initial squadron tours were with HC-1 and HC-7 flying combat SAR missions in North Vietnam. Following this, he reported to HC-5, which became HSL-31, as an instructor pilot and eventually served as Officer in Charge of CNO project (DV-98), evaluating follow-on LAMPS aircraft.
He then joined HSL-33 as a plank owner and deployed to WESTPAC as Officer-In-Charge of Pacific Fleet’s first SH-2F detachment aboard USS BREWTON (FF-1086).
Returning to HSL-31 as an instructor pilot and Admin officer in 1975 he was instrumental in the movement of the squadron to North Island and became the COMNAVAIRPAC NATOPS Evaluator for the SH-2. Selected for the college completion program, Captain Doane attended San Diego State University where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration.
Joining the “Magicians” of HSL-35 in 1977, Captain Doane served as Maintenance Officer and was subsequently selected for command.
He reported to the “Snakes” of HSL-33 in 1979 as Executive Officer and assumed command in 1980.
Following command Captain Doane was the Air Operations Officer on the staff of COMCRUDESGRU ONE, Operations Officer on USS NEW ORLEANS (LPH-11),
Assistant Chief of Staff for Aviation on the COMNAVSURFPAC staff and in August 1990 reported to COMASWWINGPAC.
Captain Doane graduated from the Naval War College and earned a Master of Arts degree in International Relations as well as a Masters of Science in Personnel Administration from Salve Regina College.
Captain Doane was named both the Naval Helicopter Association’s “Pilot of the Year” and “Maintenance Officer of the Year” and was authorized to wear the following awards:
Meritorious Service Medal with Gold Star, four Air Medals, two Navy Commendations, and a variety of unit and campaign ribbons.
In retirement, Bob enjoyed traveling with his wife Susan, eating a good meal, socializing with friends, and spending time with his children and grandchildren.
Captain Doane is survived by his wife of 34 years, Susan, his former spouse, Valerie, a daughter Angela Ceceña (Ricardo), a son Michael Robert Doane, grandsons Alec Ceceña, Chad Ceceña, Collin Doane, Owen Doane, and a granddaughter, Natalie Ceceña.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you make a donation to your favorite charity.
If you have a story or photo to share, please email:
Services for Captain Robert “K” Doane USN (Ret.) will be held at Miramar National Cemetery, 5795 Nobel Drive, San Diego, CA 92122- Friday, April 12, 2024 at 1230.
FOLLOWING THE SERVICE:
The family invites you to join us in a Celebration of Life for Bob- Location and details to come.