SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 11
In Memory
of
Jack Crosby
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.
________________________________
Secretary of the Senate
________________________________
Member, Texas Senate