Robert K. Fuller

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Robert K. Fuller, on February 19, at the age of 95. Lovingly known by many names, Bob, Pa, or Big Bob, was a genuinely kind and gentle man.

Born in Montclair, New Jersey, he worked for J.P. Morgan as a brokerage clerk before serving six years as a Corporal in the United States Army during the Korean War. After his service he followed his heart to the country, moving to Upstate NY; his high school yearbook quote saying, “Don’t fence me in.” He then began his career as a Systems Technician for the Bell Systems telephone company where he later retired after 30 years.

In 1963 he married his love, Barbara, with whom he spent 37 devoted years. Together they truly did everything side by side, building a life rooted in family, faith, and deep companionship. God and family were always at the center of their relationship, and their home was a place of welcome—often filled with laughter, shared meals, and large gatherings where everyone was invited. They especially loved camping and traveling in their later years, creating lasting memories along the way.

He was fortunate to find love a second time in 2001 with Jan, his beloved wife of 26 years. They shared many meaningful moments, enjoying trips near and far, quiet evenings watching Jeopardy, and the simple comforts of home. Bob especially enjoyed Jan’s baking, which was both a joy and a reflection of the care she poured into their life together.

A pillar of his community, Bob was committed to a life of humble service. He held positions as the Chairman of the Heritage Day Committee, charter member of the Berkshire History Buffs, Chairman of the Berkshire United Methodist Church, a lifetime member of the Berkshire Fire Department, a Town Board member, and a little league coach. Bob loved Berkshire, especially Jewett Hill, where neighbors were like family. In addition to his deep community involvement, Bob had numerous hobbies and interests that brought him immense joy and he readily shared them with those he loved. He was a talented woodworker, carving thoughtful pieces for his home, and an amateur radio operator for 50 years — known to those buddies by his call sign WA2PHM. He also spent his entire life an avid Yankees fan and you could find him watching baseball games most evenings throughout the spring and summer. Gifted with an impressive memory and love of history, Bob lit up discussing stories from his lifetime with his grandchildren when they visited.

But most of all, he loved his family deeply. He was the epitome of a patriarch – a steady and guiding presence whose life set the example. An example of a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather and great grandfather, committed neighbor and loyal friend. He is survived by his wife Jan; children, Lawrence Bleck (Jackie), Karen Raponi (Thomas); daughter in-law Chris; his grandchildren Shelleen McHale (Jack), Richard Bleck (Tara), Catie Tyler (Chuck), Matthew Bleck (Casey), Nicholas Raponi (Jessica), Shelby Raponi (Dixon), Tammy Donath (Jeff); great-grandchildren Jamesen (Emily), Rylie (Miguel), Jackson, Anthony, Mariana, Alexis, Amelia, Cheyenne (Ryan), Matthew, Jefferson, Asa, Amanda, Samantha and Pamala; many great great-grandchildren; special cousins Betty Foland, Nancy Hutchinson and the entire Foland family; Janet’s family Tim Benjamin (Angela), Chuck Benjamin (Judy), Deborah Landry, Mark Landry, Daniel, Jennie and Clark Benjamin, and Harold Gary; dear friends Maurice Stoughton, Carol Richards, and his cherished Berkshire neighbors.

He is predeceased by his wife Barbara Fuller, daughter Sheila Ladd, son Robert Bleck, daughter-in-law Brenda Bleck, son-in-law John Ladd, grandson John EM Ladd, his parents Kenneth and Gertrude Fuller, and brother Bruce Fuller.

Our family is incredibly grateful to the loving and supportive care team that assisted with Bob’s care over the last few years – Claudia, Julie, Ann, Ben, Jennifer, Nancy and Michelle.

Friends and relatives are invited to a period of visitation on Tuesday, February 24 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the MacPherson Funeral Home, 5 Whig Street, Newark Valley, New York. A celebration of Bob's life will take place immediately following visitation, where family and friends are invited to honor his legacy. Memories and condolences can be shared in Bob's online guest book at www.macphersonfh.com. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations in his name to the Berkshire Fire Department - P.O. Box 183, Berkshire, New York 13736.

We find comfort in knowing that Bob was welcomed home into the arms of his Lord and reunited with so many he loved. The best way anyone can honor his memory is to hold tight to your faith, honor your country, and love your family completely. Rest in peace Pa. You have been a steadfast example of love, patience, and integrity; we are all better for having shared a life with you. We will carry your impact in our hearts for generations. We love you bunches.