Obituary of Robert W. Curtiss

Mr. Robert W. Curtiss, 89, of McDonald Drive, Fort Johnson, died suddenly on Tuesday, January 10, 2017 at home. Born in Amsterdam, NY he was the son of the late Willis H. Curtiss and Ada Howcroft Curtiss. A lifelong area resident, Robert graduated in 1946 from the former Wilbur H. Lynch High School. He served proudly with the United States Army and was honorably discharged. For several years he was employed as an operating engineer for Local 106 in Albany, retiring in 1989. During his tenure, he was employed by DA Collins and Callahan Industries locally. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Amsterdam where he served as a Deacon, The Moose Lodge in Johnstown, the Iroquois Seniors and the Sir William Johnson Seniors. He also enjoyed boating on the Sacandaga Lake. Bob was a member of the Sacandaga Boat Club, The Mayfield Boat Club and The Sacandaga Power Squadron where he won many awards. Bob also enjoyed being outdoors, listening to the birds and took great pride in his home, flowers gardens and his lawn. He loved his family dearly, and will be missed by all who knew and loved him. On October 24, 1954 he was united in marriage to the former Anita Belpulsi. That union lasted 56 years until her passing on June 11, 2010. He was also predeceased by his sister, Ruth Townsend. He is survived by his daughter Carol Vassi and her husband David; one grandson, Nicolas Vassi; his fiancée, Wanda DiCaprio; nieces, nephews and cousins. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 14, 2017 at 11a.m. at the Betz, Rossi & Bellinger Family Funeral Home, 171 Guy Park Avenue, Amsterdam. Burial will follow in Fairview Cemetery with military honors. Calling hours will be held prior to the service, beginning at 9a.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church of Amsterdam, 479 Guy Park Avenue, Amsterdam, NY 12010. Please visit the online memorial at www.brbsfuneral.com