Obituary of Robert L. Strong

Robert L. Strong "Bob" Elmira: Loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, age 90, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 3, 2011 at the Bath VA. Bob was born July 28, 1920, in Elmira, a son of the late William H. and Ella (Jensen) Strong. He is also predeceased by his loving wife of 63 years, Margie; oldest son, Robert, Jr.; brothers, William and Donald Strong. Bob's sister, Doris (Ray) Cicconi, is the last surviving sibling. He is also survived by his three sons, Martin, Bruce, with wife Mary Jennifer, and Gary, with partner Carla; grandchildren, Robert Talada, Hannah, Kevin, Morgan, Andrew Strong, and Gretchen (Andrew) Fink; great-grandchildren, Wyeth, Ian and Soren Fink; nieces and nephews, Jimmy (Trisha) Cicconi, Kathy Cicconi, Carol (Bruce) Mumma, Bill (Sara) Strong, Barbara Reed, Carol (Nick) Ferrerei, Cindy and Patti Strong. Bob was a wounded Army veteran of WWII. He served as a platoon Sergeant in charge of 30 men of a heavy mortar platoon, and was also in charge of other gun sections of rifles, machine guns, and armored cars. Bob served in the European Theatre of Operations, fought in 4 major battles, was wounded in Germany, and earned the Purple Heart. Over the years Bob was employed by Mutual of Omaha, NJ Thompson, Commercial Press, and F.M. Howell. Upon his retirement Bob had various jobs…..Bingo Inspector for West Elmira, Truant Officer for Hendy Ave. School, and he worked with the staff at Elmira Savings Bank, whom he loved dearly. However, his favorite job was crossing guard at Hendy Ave. School for 12 years, until he turned 80. Bob was on duty at 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. on West Water Street, helping the students cross the street. He always had a smile on his face. Every morning Bob could be found at Anderson's Cozy Corner checking in with his many good friends there. Evenings he would be at the Elbow Room, having a glass of red wine, and catching up with his friends there. He loved the staff at both places. Many people considered Bob to be the "Unofficial Mayor of Elmira." He seemed to know everybody wherever he went. Bob was a member of North Presbyterian Church. He will be missed. Friends are invited to McInerny Funeral Home, corner of W. Water and Walnut Sts., on Thursday, June 9, 2011 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Interment, with military honors, will take place on Friday, June 10, 2011 at 9:00 a.m. at Woodlawn National Cemetery Columbarium. In lieu of flowers, those wishing may remember Bob with a donation to either, Chemung County SPCA, Route 352, Elmira, NY 14903, or Tanglewood Nature Center, 443 Coleman Avenue, Elmira, NY 14903. Special thanks to all the staff at the Bath VA. Thank you to the 3rd floor staff at the Twin Pines Nursing Home on the VA grounds. They took great care of dad and his family. They treated dad, and us, with love, dignity, and respect.