Alexander Richard Crooks, a tenor, was born in Trenton, New Jersey. on June 26, 1900. In 1921, Crooks married his childhood friend, Mildred Pine, and they had two children, Patricia and Richard, Jr.  Crooks toured widely, singing with the Metropolitan Opera Company from 1933 to 1942 and recording extensively for the Victor record company.  He was also featured on several radio series.  After retiring, Crooks and his wife settled in Portola Valley, California.