Charles “Chuck” Lobb, a distinguished electrical engineer and aviation historian, passed away peacefully at the age of 93. He was born in Kansas City, Missouri, and spent significant portions of his early life in Illinois and Minnesota, where he excelled academically and athletically.
Early Life and Education
Chuck grew up in Winnetka, Illinois, and attended New Trier High School, where he not only earned his ham radio license but also took on leadership roles, including senior class president. After moving to Deephaven, Minnesota, he graduated from Deephaven High School in 1950, achieving honors in the National Honor Society and National Athletic Scholarship Society, particularly in football and track. He also showcased his musical talent by playing the clarinet in the school band.
Following high school, Chuck joined the Air Force ROTC while pursuing a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering from the University of Minnesota, graduating in 1955. Upon completion, he was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the USAF Reserve. His military service included a stint on the Greenland Ice Cap and active duty in the Air Force from 1956 to 1958.
Professional Career
In 1958, Chuck began his career at Hughes Aircraft in Los Angeles while simultaneously serving as an active reservist with the 303rd Air Rescue Squadron until 1960. His passion for engineering led him to further his education, culminating in a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Southern California in June 1968. After nearly three decades with Hughes Aircraft, where he rose to become Assistant Director of Technical Education and Corporate Director, he retired in 1988.
Chuck’s commitment to amateur radio was evident as he achieved his FCC examination for the Amateur Radio Extra Class license, KN6H, in 1980. His contributions extended beyond engineering; he played a vital role in the development of the Torrance Amateur Radio Association and partnered with the City of Torrance to enhance emergency communications.
Aviation Contributions and Legacy
As an aviation historian, Chuck dedicated years to researching the history of the Torrance Airport, also known as the Lomita Flight Strip. He compiled his findings into a book titled “Images of Aviation–Torrance Airport.” His expertise and passion for aviation were recognized with the establishment of the Chuck Lobb viewing platform at the Torrance Airport.
In 2007, he authored a handbook on disaster preparedness aimed at assisting Torrance residents. His legacy is further enriched by his role as a flight instructor and pilot, as well as his quick wit and engaging storytelling.
Chuck is survived by his two daughters, Carolyn (Tim) Jerry and Patricia (Tom) Dunlap, along with five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his wife, Charlotte Jane Lobb, and his sister, Barbara Costigan.
In honoring Chuck’s memory, memorial donations can be made to the Southern California Historical Aviation Foundation, specifically to the Western Museum of Flight, to continue supporting aviation history.
