Bob

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Robert C. DeForest, Jr., formerly of Newark Valley passed away peacefully on April 11, 2023, at his home in Endwell, NY, at the age of 88. Bob or Coach, as he was affectionately known was born on February 23, 1935, in Mount Upton, NY. Bob was a gentle, creative, and passionate man who touched the lives of many, leaving a lasting impact on his family, friends, and community.  Bob was a graduate of South Otselic High School class of 1954. Following graduation, he continued his education at Ithaca College where he studied Physical Education and was a member of the college basketball team. On June 11, 1955 he married Norma Locke and together they shared nearly 68 years of marriage. In 1958, Bob and Norma moved to make Newark Valley their home. Bob began his career at Newark Valley Central School as a practice teacher and later hired as a Elementary gym teacher for thirty-two years. He instilled the values of hard work, dedication and teamwork as he coached the youth of the community in track, basketball and golf.  Bob was known for his kindness and caring nature, always going out of his way to help others. He had a genuine interest in people and was a great listener, making those around him feel valued and understood. His gentle demeanor put everyone at ease, and his warm smile was a beacon of light in any room.

As a gym teacher, Bob touched the lives of hundreds of students and with his parallel career at the golf course for fifty-two years in Newark Valley. His dedication and skill helped set the stage for many more to enjoy the sport of golf he so loved.

Bob was also a talented craftsman and handcrafted many clocks and timepieces. In addition, he also enjoyed spending time outdoors with Norma where together they created gardens, specializing in growing daylilies and iris.  Bob was a loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather, who cherished the time he spent with his family. He took great pride in their accomplishments and was always there to offer his support and guidance. His strong presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on through the love and memories shared by those who knew him.  Bob will be greatly missed by his wife Norma; his children: Carol Rhodes and her husband Rory; Robert DeForest III and his wife Kim; Michele La Comb and her husband Stanley. His grandchildren: Trevor (Lauren) Rhodes, Tyler Rhodes, Jamie (Dylan) Heiman, Emily DeForest, Rachel DeForest, Robert DeForest; Jennifer La Comb (Michael Bovier) and Jeffrey La Comb. His great grandson Ethan Heiman. Bob will also be missed by his sister Jane Sheldon; several nieces, nephews and their families also survive. Bob was predeceased by his parents; and his siblings: Gertrude Gage, Olin, Alfred and Sheldon DeForest; along with his faithful canine companion Lexi.

Family and friends will gather to share stories, laughter, and tears, remembering the remarkable man who left an indelible mark on those he knew on Thursday, April 13th from 6 – 8 pm at the MacPherson Funeral Home, 5 Whig St., Newark Valley. A celebration of Bob’s life will be held on Friday, April 14th at 11 am at the funeral home. Bob will be laid to rest in the Hope Cemetery, Newark Valley. Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting his guestbook at www.macphersonfh.com Those who wish may kindly consider a memorial contribution to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 (stjude.org) or the Animal Care Council, 131 Washington Ave., Endicott, New York 13760 in loving memory of Robert C. DeForest, Jr.

As the poet Maya Angelou once said, "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Bob's gentle, creative, and passionate nature will never be forgotten, and his legacy will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him.