Robert F. Slater Sr., a longtime Rye resident, passed away on February 12, 2017. He was 85.
One of eight children of George and Irene Burns Slater, he was born in Port Chester, on June 28, 1931. From the time he moved to Rye, he was an active member of the community. He had an over 30-year career with the Rye Fire Department, which included serving as Captain of the Engine & Hose Company.
In the words of his daughter, Diane Johansson, “Our father was a part of Rye. Everyone knew him because of the many jobs he did and volunteer hours he gave.”
Mr. Slater was owner of Bob’s Delivery Service, Over the Bridge Tavern, and Rye Refuse Service with partner Robert Billington. He was also an active member of the Rye Hunters Club.
He is survived by his wife of 67 years, the former Lee Neilson, and their three children, Diane Johansson, Robert (Debra) Slater, and Richard (Paula) Slater; as well as six grandchildren: Jessica, Jamie, Robert, Emma, Amber, and Hannah, four great-grandchildren: Ali, Courtney, Morgan, and Riely, and four siblings: Mary, Vincent, Harold, and Mickey. He was predeceased by his sister, Winifred, and his brothers, Jimmy and George.
A mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at Church of the Resurrection on February 16. Donations in his memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
