Robert D. Hall

Bob passed away peacefully on December 17, 2025, in Buffalo, New York, following a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease at the age of 88.

Bob was born on July 3, 1937, in Granville, New York. He spent many years making his home in Altamont, New York, before later relocating to East Amherst, where he lived surrounded by family and community.

Bob lived a life rooted in learning, service, and genuine connection with others. A proud graduate of Granville High School, he distinguished himself early as a multi-sport varsity athlete and a high school tri-state athlete, and later earned a track scholarship to college, where he competed at the collegiate level. He also held a track record at Granville High School. As a first-generation college student, Bob went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree from Ithaca College and a Master of Science degree from SUNY Albany—achievements that reflected both his determination and his lifelong love of learning.

Bob devoted his professional life to education and mentorship. He began his career as a teacher, guidance counselor, and coach, roles that allowed him to encourage and inspire countless young people. He later served for many years as an admissions counselor at SUNY Cobleskill, where his warmth, wisdom, and belief in students left a lasting impact. He had a rare gift for seeing potential in others and helping them believe in themselves.

Those who knew Bob knew him as a true people person. He loved to talk, to listen, and—most of all—to tell stories. He delighted in entertaining his children and grandchildren, sharing memories, laughter, and lessons drawn from a life well lived. Growing up, Bob worked on farms and in slate mines as a teenager, experiences that shaped his strong work ethic, humility, and appreciation for opportunity. These early chapters of his life stayed with him and informed the compassion and perspective he carried into adulthood.

Bob believed deeply in growth—personal, intellectual, and moral. He loved to read, to learn, and to inspire others to do the same. He strove always to make the world a better place and to help those around him, living by his own guiding words:

Coping, Becoming, Arriving, Maturing, Being.

Bob was predeceased by his son, Dana Hall.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Patricia Hall; his sister, Joan Graham; his children Kim (Jeff) Back, Chris Hall, Shawn (Michelle) Hall, Jill (Eric Steiner) Malone, and Lauren (Chris) Husser. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Ashley (David) Provenzano, Jessica (Matthew) Brooks, Megan Back, Erica Hall, Mackenzie (Evan) Quay, Caitlyn Hall, Ethan Hall, Mason Steiner, Connor Steiner, Bradon Hall, Carson Hall, Samantha Husser, and Evelyn Husser. He was also blessed with six great-grandchildren, along with numerous nieces and nephews who will remember him fondly.

Bob’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the stories he shared, the students he encouraged, and the family he loved so deeply.

Friends and family are invited to attend a visitation on Saturday January 3, 2026, from 2 - 4 PM at the PERNA DENGLER ROBERTS FUNERAL HOME 1671 Maple Road, Williamsville NY, where a celebration of life service will be held at 4 PM.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Bob’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Foundation or the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.