ANDOVER - Robert E. “Bob” Black, 73, died at home on Monday (Dec. 14,
2020) after battling cancer for five weeks.
Mr. Black was born on Nov. 15, 1947 in Wellsville to Robert
L. and Grace M. (Smith) Black. He was a 1966 graduate of Scio Central School
and later served in the United States Army from 1967-1970 with a tour in
Germany. After his army tour, he started working at Big N in Hornell where he
met Joanne M. Criss. They were married a year later in St. Ann’s Church in
Hornell on Oct. 14, 1972. They settled in Andover shortly thereafter, much to
Bob’s surprise since Scio and Andover were such rivals in sports.
Bob worked as an inspector at Dresser-Rand Corp. for 40
years, retiring in 2013.
In addition to his wife of 48 years, Bob is survived by two
sons, Jason (Becky) Black of Manchester and Andrew Black of Andover; a
brother-in-law, Robert Frost of Dundee; three grandchildren, Olivia Black,
Sydney Black and Landon Black; his dear friend and co-worker at Dresser for
many years, Bob Shelly; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a sister,
Roberta Frost; two brothers, David Black and Daniel “Danny” Black; a baby
sister, Madelene Black; and his precious grandson, Emerson Robert Black at six
weeks.
Bob was very involved in community activities. He served on
the Andover 4th of July and Andover Haunted House Committee’s for 25 years. He
also served on the Andover Central School Board for four years and attended
many marching band events.
Bob was an active member of Andover Historical Society and
Andover Golden Agers. He played Santa’s Helper for over 40 years but as “Poppy”
to his beloved grandchildren, some things must remain a secret. He was a
long-time member of Blessed Sacrament Church where he belonged to the Blessed
Sacrament Choir and Andover Ecumenical Choir.
As a patriotic American, on September 11th, Bob, along with
his son, Andrew and his grandnephew, Brandon Brown, placed an American flag at
every residence in Andover. He truly became Andover’s adopted native son.
Additionally, Bob was an avid Buffalo Bill’s and Sabre’s fan and actively
rooted for the St. Bonaventure Bonnies.
Due to Covid-19 concerns, there will be no visitation at
this time. A memorial service will be held in the spring at a date to be
announced. Burial with full military honors will follow in Hillside Cemetery in
Andover. Arrangements are under the direction of Baker-Swan Funeral Home and
online condolences may be offered at www.baker-swan.com.
