Robert John Willson

1951 - 2024

Beloved Husband, father, son, brother, uncle, cousin and friend, Robert John Willson, born on 11/4/51, Penn Yan, NY, died unexpectedly on April 25, 2024, from a heart attack. Robert graduated from Penn Yan Academy in 1969. Robert resided in Remsen, NY the last few years, though lived in Clinton, NY while raising his family. Robert was visiting his winter home in New Port Richey, FL. Robert graduated from the University of Michigan after serving his country as an Army EOD Specialist. Robert was a longtime active member of the business community, serving on local boards including the Utica Zoo, and co-owning Willco Agway with his wife, Margaret Willson, for over 20 years. Robert was also an active member with the Boy Scouts of America dedicating his time and energy to leading young boys to become young men.

Robert was a man of honor; a man of integrity. He was a loyal and faithful husband for over 52 years, a wonderful father, and a true friend. Robert was a good man. He loved his God, his country, and his family. Robert will be sorely missed by those who knew, loved, and respected him. Robert leaves behind so many who cared for him.

Robert's true love, his wife Margaret Willson.

His Loving Children:
Robert D Willson (deceased), John T. Willson, Elizabeth A. Reardon, spouse James C. Reardon, Richard M. Willson, spouse Candida F. Willson.

Robert was rarely seen without one of his beloved grandchildren crawling in his lap, holding his hand, dancing, singing songs, playing nerf games, fishing, and building sheds with him.

They are:
Bianca M. and Robert P. Willson, Ashlie E. and Thomas J. Willson, Margaret M. and James WF Reardon, Marvella M. Willson, Halie V Weaver, and Emilie R. Phillips.

And his loving family:
Barbara L. Burke, Robert's beloved 94 year old mother, spouse Thomas A Burke (deceased).

Siblings: Richard L. and Suzanne (deceased) Willson, Carol J Willson (deceased), Thomas and Stephanie Willson, Patricia Gilespie (deceased), Madeline and John Tenny, Thomas and Carrie Burke, Nina and Robert Schondelmier, and all their loving families, children, and grandchildren including; Jennifer, Aidan, and Jackson Green, Christy Willson and Andrew Willson. All of his cousins who were not only cousins, but his best friends, including Lloyd and Mark (deceased) Ingram, Cindy Lewis and Mike Gove and his dear friend Calvin Sands

Robert meant so much to so many.
To say farewell, calling hours will be held Saturday, 10:00-10:30 am July 6, 2024, at The Stone Presbyterian Church, 8 S Park Row Clinton, NY. Robert's Celebration of Life will be held immediately following at the same location. Please stay after to break bread with us.