FORT EDWARD – Robert (Bob) L. Derby of Fort Edward, New York
passed away peacefully in his sleep just 3 days after his 95th
birthday. Born on July 11, 1929, Bob was a devout catholic, dedicated father,
attentive husband, proud grandfather and great grandfather and model citizen.
Bob’s passion could be felt in everything he did. From his work to his family,
he always put others before himself.
Bob and his wife, Theresa, set the standard for love and
commitment and for 68 years could frequently be found holding hands while
walking in public or just sitting on the couch watching TV. He often told
stories of how they met and dutifully drove Theresa to New York City to watch
her beloved Mets. Although Bob was a Yankees fan, he cheered her team on and
frequently gave up the remote for the Met’s game because that’s who he was.
Their love radiated onto everyone they touched. They loved to travel, touching
every continent often with his brother Earl and his wife Fawn and cousin Carl
and his wife Marge Cooney.
For 41 years, Bob worked as a color technician at the former
Imperial, Hercules and Ciba-Geigy pigment plant retiring when the plant closed.
His service to others extended to his profession, serving as a Union
representative for the plant, Manager/Treasurer of the Imperial Employees
Credit Union for over 20 years, Vice President of the Northern Adirondack
Credit Union Council and also served as Plant Safety Committee.
Bob not only worked hard, but also played hard and his
commitment to others could be seen here as well. His passion for hunting and
nature were undeniable. A passion he instilled upon his son, Lloyd,
grandchildren and friends. He taught each one how to hunt and respect nature,
but also how to do the little things like play cards and care for the camp. Bob
was also an avid bowler, playing in leagues and serving as Treasurer for the
Tri-County Bowling League. He was also a mentor on the field, teaching young men
and women to enjoy and succeed as a coach for Fort Edward little league and
Hudson Falls girls’ softball league.
Bob was the ultimate family man. From his brothers, Earl
(deceased) and Eugene and their wives Fawn and Louise, to his children Lloyd,
Lynn and Paul and their spouses Bonnie, Tom and Lorraine, he showed an
unwavering love and commitment that made him beloved to all. Pop, as he was known
by his by his grandchildren Rob, Julie, Nick, Lorie, Matt and June and great
grandchildren Austin, Jack, Adam, Brianna, Sabrina, Jake, Kyle, Lucien, Brady,
Alivia, Willow, Waylon, Lila and Jackie was (and always will be) cherished for
teaching them how to love and respect family, support each other and most
importantly to forgive. He understood that people aren’t perfect, that our
differences were to be celebrated and that it made his family stronger.
Outside his family, Bob was a respected member of the
neighborhood and community, even running for local office. For 67 years he
could be seen socializing with neighbors outside that little green house on
Orsola Avenue or serving the congregation of the church. Everyone he touched
was better for the encounter, even if only for a moment.
His family invites you to celebrate Bob’s life on Thursday,
July 18, 2024 where friends may call from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Carleton
Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, July
19, 2024 at St. Mary’s/St. Paul’s Catholic Church, on the park in Hudson Falls,
where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by the Rev. Desmond Rossi,
pastor. Rite of committal will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Fort Edward.
Memorial donations may be made in his name to the charity of
your choice.
