Robert Bishopp Schaller

Rome - Robert Bishopp Schaller, 85, husband of Marjory, joined his beloved daughter, Gretchen, in Heaven, when he passed away, peacefully, while surrounded by the loving care of his wife and children, on Wednesday, October 16, 2024.

Affectionately known as Bob, Mr. Schaller, a native and lifelong resident of Rome, was born on September 26, 1939, the son of Harry Enos and Ruth Bishopp Schaller. He graduated from Rome Free Academy, with the Class of 1959 and soon thereafter, joined his father in the operation of H.E. Schaller Wholesale Meats, a prominent Rome area meat business, catering to Central and Northern NY. After his father's passing, in 1981, Bob took over the full operation of the business for many years. Later, he closed his private business and was employed as a meat cutter for the N.Y. State Department of Corrections, at the Food Production Center, located at the former Oneida Correctional Facility of Rome, where he retired after 10 years.

On November 17, 1962, Bob was united in marriage with the love of his life, Marjory Mathis, at St. Mary's Nativity Church, West Leyden. This was a happy union which marked nearly 62 years.

Bob was a person who possessed a strong work ethic, a great and sustaining love for his wife, Marjory, and his five children, whom he lovingly referred to as his "posse." He was a genuine people person, who quickly made lasting friendships in whatever direction life led. He was strong in his Catholic faith and will be fondly remembered for his sharp wit and sense of humor. Bob had the ability to light up the crowd or whatever situation he was in.

He was a communicant of St. Paul's Catholic Church, Rome, a member of Rome Benevolent Protective Order of Elks (B.P.O.E.), for over 50 years, and a former member of Lake Delta Fire Department. Bob was a member and former officer of the Rome Hook and Ladder No. 1, as well as the Rome Fireman's Benevolent Association. He was a 65-year member of Tappet Twirlers Automobile Club. Bob shared his enthusiasm for snowmobiles with his family as an early member of the Trail Busters Snowmobile Club. He also served as a Cub Scout leader.

In 1953, Bob and his parents constructed a family camp named "Dreams End" on Brantingham Lake. Over the years, Bob, Marge and their family enjoyed many good times at camp - waterskiing in the summer and snowmobiling during the winter. Teaching the sport of water skiing, to friends, family and anyone willing to learn brought great pride to Bob. His passion and love for water skiing led him to provide and sell custom water skies under the name Ski Haven. Another of Bob's passions was PennYan boats, of which he owned and restored several. In his youth, he would be seen cruising the beautiful waters of Brantingham Lake in one of his Swifts.

In addition to his wife, Marjory, Bob is survived by his children, Katrina (Patrick) Mercer, Todd (Tonia) Schaller, Christopher (Martha) Schaller and Heidi (Daniel) LaSalle. Bob was predeceased by his beloved daughter, Gretchen Elizabeth Gillen, in 1998. Also surviving are grandchildren, Kayla (Jordan) Doroshenko, Megan Mercer and significant other, Jon Conway, Jacob Mercer, Jordan (James) Smith, Emily LaSalle, Andrew (McKenna) LaSalle and Elizabeth LaSalle and fiance, Wyatt Hasty, Olivia and Sierra Schaller; and two great-grandchildren, Layne Bishopp and Blake James Doroshenko. Bob was predeceased by two granddaughters, Hailey Marie LaSalle and Shelby Lynn Schaller. Also surviving are brothers and sisters-in-law, John Mathis, Rod (Holly) Mathis, Lynda (Duane) Wallace, Joyce (Robert) Parkhurst and Warren (Eleanor) Mathis.

Bob's wife and family wish to express their heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the many incredible nurses, doctors and medical staff who touched his life during his long and difficult illness. In addition, special gratitude goes to the Lake Delta Fire Department who were always there for the family's needs. You were Bob's angels!

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Rev. Robert Kelly, on Monday, October 21, 2024, at 11 AM at St. Paul's Church, 1807 Bedford St., Rome, with interment, to follow, at Evergreen Cemetery, Town of Lee. Calling hours are Sunday from 2-6 PM at Barry Funeral Home, 807 West Chestnut St., Rome.

Memorial contributions may be made to Lake Delta Fire Department, 8508 Elmer Hill Rd., Rome, NY 13440.

For an online message of sympathy, please go to www.trainorfuneralhome.com.