TITLE: In memory of Jack Crosby.

SUMMARY: In memory of Jack Crosby.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas joins the citizens of Austin in mourning the loss of Jack Crosby, who died December 30, 2016, at the age of 90; and WHEREAS, Jack Crosby was born and raised in Del Rio, Texas; he became a larger-than-life businessman who was beloved for his kindness and integrity and was respected around the world for his far-reaching entrepreneurial initiatives; and WHEREAS, Jack began studying business at The University of Texas, and he suspended his education for two years to serve as a gunnery instructor in the United States Navy; upon returning to school in 1946, he and his friends built living quarters in the back yard of his fraternity and he earned a varsity letter by serving as student manager of the university baseball team; and WHEREAS, After college, Mr. Crosby had humble career beginnings as an employee in the family appliance business in Del Rio; in order to increase television sales, he built a 450-foot tower and successfully brought cable television to the region; in so doing, he began down a path that would ultimately distinguish him as a world-renowned media mogul; in addition to developing Univision, the first Spanish-language broadcast station in the United States, he built television systems around the globe and founded companies that later became major media conglomerates; and WHEREAS, The quintessential entrepreneur, Mr. Crosby contributed greatly to the growth and development of the City of Austin; after moving to the capital city in 1966, he founded Rust Ventures, which led to the creation of Austin Ventures, and his companies gained recognition for the development of prime commercial real estate, including establishing One American Center, and for funding many of the city's most successful technology companies; a man of many talents and interests, he also served on the board of directors of Robert Redford's Sundance Institute and on the board of Orion Pictures; and WHEREAS, While noted for his passion for business and entrepreneurial challenge, Jack Crosby was also a devoted husband and father who embodied the spirit of a true Texas gentleman in every facet of his life; he was beloved by all who were privileged to know him, and he leaves behind memories that will long be cherished by his family and countless friends; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 85th Legislature, hereby extend sincere condolences to the bereaved family of Jack Crosby; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for his family as an expression of deepest sympathy from the Texas Senate and that when the Senate adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Jack Crosby. Watson President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on January 17, 2017, by a rising vote.