Obituary of Robert W. Baumes

On December 16, 2023, we bid farewell to Robert William Baumes, 74, of Amsterdam, New York. Robert, affectionately known as “Rooster” for his Bantam red hair and jovial disposition, passed away peacefully. He was born on September 2, 1949, to the late Watson and Doris (Batty) Baumes of Charleston, New York.

Rooster's affable nature, relentless heckling, and good-humored banter endeared him to many, earning him a wide circle of friends who became like family. He was revered by locals and regarded as the unofficial "Mayor of Charleston Four Corners." Rooster devoted much of his life to tending the family homestead, hobby farming, and caring for numerous cattle, horses, and dogs alongside his beloved Linda L. Wadsworth, whom he married on August 31, 1990. Robert and Linda shared 33 cherished years together.

In 1969, during the height of the Vietnam War, Rooster was drafted and honorably discharged as Private, First Class. Stationed in Germany, he honed his mechanical skills while working in the Motor Pool. Throughout his later years, Rooster maintained a passion for antique machinery, amassing collections of classic cars and antique farm equipment.

Upon returning to the States, Rooster dedicated several industrious decades to the Carpenter’s Union and later the Laborers’ Local 517. His hard work with Syrstone Construction provided for a large blended family, including their eldest daughter Robbien Quill; his sons, Robert William Baumes Jr, Brian Watson Baumes, and Robert Gushue; his step-daughter Amy Sager; and their niece Angela Baumes.

Beyond his gruff exterior, Rooster was good-natured, and a friend to all. Just as he loved to hug his dogs, and tease his cats, he always had welcome arms and a welcome home to any in need; so long as they could handle the chaffing, banter, and wisecracks Rooster could (and would) throw at anybody. 

In addition to his parents, Rooster was preceded in death by his son, Robert William Baumes Jr.

Rooster is survived by his beloved wife, Linda L. Wadsworth; their daughter, Robbien (Joe) Quill; sons Brian Baumes and Robert Gushue; step-daughter Amy Sager; niece Angela Baumes; and siblings John Baumes, Sandra Baumes, Irene Baumes, and Martin Baumes.

Rooster leaves behind twelve grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren: Nicholas Robert (Amber) Quill and their daughter Zatia; Victoria Clouthier and her daughter Saadia; Zoe (Josh) Reinhardt and their sons Kyle and Keagen; Tyler (Kelly) Ahrens and their children Brantley and Abel; Christian Brian (Kelsey) Baumes and their children Landon Chase, Evan Ray, Kaylee Avery, and Mavie Lee; Justin William (Kourtney) Baumes and their twins Eion and Elijah; Melanie Kate Quill; Amber Deborah Booth; Ethan Michael Baumes; Taryn Skye Baumes; Allison Leigh Booth; Eric Douglas Putman.

As per Rooster’s wishes, there will be no formal memorial services at this time. However, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to those who joined us in raising a toast in his honor at his favorite local spot. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be made to the Ayres Memorial Animal Shelter, 133 Hilltop Rd, Sprakers, NY 12166, or to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741.