Obituary of Robert William Howland Sr.

     Robert William Howland, Sr., 74, of Amsterdam,  passed away Sunday December 26, 2021 at Ellis Hospital in Schenectady with his loving family by his side.

     Born on August 27, 1947 in Amsterdam, the son of the late Charles and Clara Hawks Howland.  He was a lifelong resident of Amsterdam and was a 1965 graduate of the former Wilbur H. Lynch High School.

    Bob very proudly served his country as a US Marine during the Vietnam War from 1967 to 1971 where he earned the rank of SGT during his service. After returning home he was employed by GE in Schenectady and Eastman Kodak Co. in Amsterdam. He later went on to open a bar that he named Bob’s Back Room. Bob also worked as an insurance inspector and at one time served the Town of Amsterdam and the Town of Perth as the code enforcement officer.

    He was a proud member of the Hagaman Volunteer Fire Department and was a past President of the department. 

  Bob had many passions throughout his lifetime. He loved photography, traveling and his little dog, Bella. Bob will always be remembered by those who knew and loved him for his kindness, his love for helping others and his fun loving sense of humor. He loved nothing more than making those around him smile and laugh. 

   Survivors include his wife Donna Scafidi Howland whom he married on September 10, 1988.  In addition to his loving wife he is survived by his son, Christopher (Sarah Faville) Howland and granddaughter, Natalie Howland of Amsterdam.  His daughter,  Kayla Howland of Amsterdam.  His son,  Robert Howland Jr. and grandchild, Caleb, Evan and Payton Howland.  One sister, Debi (Howland) Becker and one brother, Larry Howland. Nieces, Nephews and cousins also survive. 

    The family will receive relatives and friends on Tuesday January 4, 2022 from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at the Betz, Rossi & Bellinger Family Funeral Home, 171 Guy Park Ave, Amsterdam, NY 12010.  A Prayer Service will be held at the conclusion of the visitation on Tuesday with Father Neal P. Longe presiding.  Entombment with military honors will be held on Wednesday January 5, 2022 at 1:00PM at the Gerald BH Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Rd. Schuylerville, NY.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests any memorial contributions be made to The Hagaman Volunteer Fire Department, Hagaman, NY 12086. Please share any memories, stories or condolences online at www.brbsfuneral.com.