Robert J. Drexler

Robert J. Drexler of 910 Idlewilde Heath Court in Winston-Salem took his last breath on Monday, Dec. 8, 2003, after a long struggle with lung cancer. Bob was born Dec. 16, 1931, in Rochester, N.Y., to Julian and Margaret Drexler. He earned a bachelor's degree in Physics from the University of Rochester, served in the U.S. Army and worked for Westinghouse Electric in Maryland and General Electric in Syracuse, N.Y., on military sonar and radar projects. In 1964 he settled his family in Marcellus, N.Y., where he was a dedicated father and community leader in the Boy Scouts, Boys Clubs and other organizations. Bob had many interests, including photography, bee-keeping, canoeing, hiking, camping, swimming, bicycling, classical music, playing the flute, chess, automotive repair and maintenance, jogging, traveling, singing and most recently duplicate bridge. Bob retired from GE after more than 25 years of distinguished service. Bob is survived by his loving and devoted companion, Sybil Kannry and her family, Jonathan Shames and wife Cheri and children, Erica Shames and husband Tansa Massoud and children and Jeffrey Shames and wife Elisa DeCarol. Bob is also survived by Mary Drexler and will be missed by his brothers and their wives, David Michael and Laura Drexler and Jack and Shirley Drexler. He will live in memory in his four children, their spouses and five grandchildren, David and Jean Drexler (Sarah and Brianna), Andy and Karen Drexler (Brian and Matt), Ben Drexler and Barbara and Rick Ferrara (Carmen). A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, at Vogler's Reynolda Road Chapel. Donations should be made in lieu of flowers to Kate B. Reynolds Hospice Home in Winston-Salem.