Robert Paul Poland

Robert Paul Poland, 91, Edgewater, a World War II veteran and toymaker, died at Bert Fish Medical Center Sat., June 14, 2008, after a short illness. Mr. Poland was born Sept. 30, 1916, in Staten Island, N.Y. Bob served in the Army in the Philippines in the 32nd "Red Arrow" division and was awarded a Purple Heart. A winter visitor to New Smyrna Beach, Bob met a young woman who would become his beloved wife of over 54 years, Abigail (Gail) Hofreiter, just before her 16th birthday. Together, Bob and Gail had three children, 10 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, James and Patricia Poland; daughter and son-in-law with whom he lived, Bobbi Barlow and Dwight Moody; grandsons, Lawrence Joseph LaMee Jr., Lance James LaMee, Leland Jon LaMee, Lyle Jeffrey LaMee, Chad Guthrie Poland and Kent Yancey Poland; and granddaughters, Leslie Erin Barlow, Laurie Jan Barlow, Elizabeth Moody and Anne Moody. He was predeceased by his wife, Gail, and daughter, Patricia LaMee. Bob enjoyed a full life of woodworking, traveling, fishing, card-cheating, and family. He was known in Southeast Volusia County for his generous Christmas lights display at his riverfront home in Edgewater and for his donations of hand-crafted wooden toys to the local charities. Within the family, he was known for his ability to fix everything and for his sharp tongue and sharp mind and his sense of humor. Celebration of Life will be 2 p.m. Sat., June 21, at 197 Hazelwood River Road. Casual attire please. Send condolences at www.BaldwinBros.net. Memorials suggested to Hospice of Volusia/Flagler, 3800 Woodbriar Trail, Port Orange FL 32119. Baldwin Brothers Memorial Chapel North Causeway is in charge of arrangements.