Robert Fuller

1945 - 2019

Robert (Bob) Fuller
01/20/1945 - 01/19/2019
Robert (Bob) Fuller of Palm Coast, FL., passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 19, 2019 at his home surrounded by family and friends. He was 73. The son of the late Frank and Irene Fuller, he was born in Newburgh, N.Y. on January 20, 1945. Bob spent his career as a professor, author and performer. He studied music at Juilliard, then went on to obtain a Bachelor of Music degree from McGill University and Master of Arts degree from Columbia University. Bob was chair of the music department at Wallkill Correctional Facility, in Wallkill, N.Y., where he taught for almost 30 years. In retirement, he was Coordinator of Music Studies at SUNY Ulster in Stone Ridge, N.Y. and later became an adjunct professor at Daytona State College in Daytona Beach, FL. Bob was also the author of four books. In addition to his teaching career, he had an illustrious career as a performer. Bob began his professional career in Canada, performing with the Montreal Symphony Orchestra, Grand Ballet of Canada, C.B.C. and B.B.C. Radio and T.V., National Film Board, Ice Capades, Ice Follies, Shriner's Circus, and Disney Productions. He backed entertainers such as Engelbert Humperdinck, Glen Campbell, Jerry Vale, Peggy Lee, and Dean Martin. Bob was also the original director of the Canadian Brass Quintet. After he moved back to the U.S., he founded the Tudor Brass Quintet, which still continues today. He toured the world playing lead trumpet in the Sammy Kaye Orchestra, and performing with the Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra. He also enjoyed many years of performing in the Papa Bear Band, Local 238 Union Band in Kingston, N.Y., Broadway shows, and various choral groups. After retiring to FL., Bob continued to remain active by playing in the Moonlighters, Daytona State College Symphonic Band, and the Dancers' Delight Band. Despite his many accolades and achievements, Bob was a humble man who never sought out fame or attention. His strong faith as a Christian and strength of character was matched only by his devotion to his family and friends. He was an amazing father, friend and colleague, who always put the needs of others before his own. He was a mentor and a role model to all who knew him. Bob loved to "chew the fat" in the company of family and friends. He spent his life entertaining others—as a music teacher, trumpet player and self proclaimed comedian. No matter the circumstances, you could always count on Bob Fuller to make you laugh. He always had a quick quip or some corny joke to share. He enjoyed good food, good company and good entertainment. Most importantly, he brought music, love and laughter to all of the lives he touched. Dad, as another comedian once said, "Thanks for the memories." Thank you to all of the musicians, friends and brothers and sisters in Christ who enriched the life of this amazing man, and in turn, the lives of his children and grandchildren. We are truly grateful. Bob is survived by his children: Robert Fuller (& Erika) of Highland, N.Y., Jennifer Fuller of Palm Coast, FL., Kimberly (& Scott) Mesic of Marlboro, N.Y., Vanya (& Tony) Tabbitas of Middleburg, FL., Jenny (& Michael) Hanley of Saugerties, N.Y., Erik (& Nicki) Stockwell of Palm Coast, FL., and Jason Stockwell of Palm Coast, FL. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Alexandra and Elizabeth Fuller, Evangeline Mesic, Nathan (& Cassandra), Gabrielle, Gianna and Sophia Tabbitas, Makayla and Conner Hanley, Jacob and Antonia Stockwell, and great-grandfather to Holden and Colten Tabbitas. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 24, 2019 at Lohman Funeral Home located at 220 Palm Coast Parkway SW, Palm Coast, FL 32137. Funeral services will follow at 12:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Pastor Kevin James will officiate. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Salvation Army.