Robert Lancaster, 80, formerly of Parsons, died Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2009.

He was born in Parsons and enlisted in the Navy after high school. He was a Navy pilot. He received a master's degree in aeronautical engineering from Princeton University, after which he continued in his Navy service until retiring in February 1975.

He continued his engineering work at Advanced Technologies, Black & Decker/PRC and General Electric Engines division with the steam turbine program.

He married Mary Ann Woods. She survives.

Other survivors include two sons, Michael Lancaster and Mark Lancaster; three daughters, Susan Thuma, Julie Lancaster and Patricia Lancaster; and five grandchildren.

A graveside service will be at 9 a.m. Thursday, May 9, at Arlington National Cemetery.

The family suggests memorials to Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, 66675-8517, or the Naval Academy Sailing Foundation, 58 Bennion Road, Annapolis, Md., 21402-1119.

The Demaine Funeral Home, 5308 Backlick Rd. Springfield, Va., is in charge of arrangements.