Robert Max Seiler

Son of Swiss parents, Max and Lucy, Robert Max Seiler was born and grew up in northern New Jersey, along with his sisters Alice and Sue. After briefly studying engineering at MIT, he decided to focus on a career in music education and the string instruments. As a young man, he enjoyed travelling and mountaineering, in Europe and in the US. He had a long career as a school music teacher, focusing on teaching the string instruments, and performing in numerous orchestras. He taught in schools in Saranac Lake, NY, Valley Stream, NY, and Chappaqua, NY. In Chappaqua, he was the orchestra director at Bell Middle School for twenty-two years. In 1967 he married Joan Heinsohn, and they were married for over 50 years. At age 62 he retired from full-time teaching, to spend more time playing his violin. He was a loving father to his son Frederick, and a devoted husband to his wife Joan. During Joan’s long decline from Alzheimer’s Disease, he was a dedicated and tireless caregiver. He is survived by his sister Alice Drish and son Frederick.