Robert John Cronauer

married in Franklin to his childhood sweetheart Joan (Burnside) Cronauer. They enjoyed 67 years of

marriage together.

Bob graduated from Franklin Central School in 1954. He was an all-star basketball and baseball player.

He is remembered for his spectacular homerun hit across the entire school flat. He was the recipient of

the Babe Ruth Good Sportsmanship award.

Bob was an outstanding trumpet player. Bob began playing the trumpet at age 8 and continued

throughout his life. He played in his high school band as well as with Jerry Laing’s Country Band, dance

band The Blue Notes, performed at his wife’s junior prom, and organized the Franklin Community band

that performed at parades and other community functions. Bob’s favorite activity was being a member

of the Sidney Community Band in which he served as an active member as well as treasurer for many

years. He was delighted to have his granddaughter Amy and great granddaughter Leah play their

trumpets with him at concerts for senior citizens in nursing homes, at the Veterans’ Home in Oxford, NY, and at the Path Finder Village. His wife believes he is playing his horn now with Gabriel.

After school he attended SUNY Delhi and later became certified in residential wiring and began working

as an electrician, plumber, and general contractor. His grandson Jason began working with him at 10

years old and went on to be employed with him for over 20 years. He loved going to work, drinking

coffee, and visiting with his customers. In 2013 his business was chosen as “Business of the Year” by the

Franklin Chamber of Commerce.

One of Bob’s proudest moments was when he received his Critical Care Certification to become an

Advanced Life Support EMS provider. He also earned certification as a NYS lab instructor and evaluator.

He was awarded the Delaware County EMS Provider of the Year award as well as the Delaware County

Citizen of the Year award along with his wife Joan. He dedicated much of his life to the helping and care

of others.

Robert is survived by his wife Joan, daughter Robin (Richard) Brower, grandson Jason Brower,

granddaughter Amy (Corey) Schmitz, great granddaughter Leah Brower, special great grandson Ezra

Wayne Schmitz, his cat Spot, and his brother Walter Cronauer. He is predeceased by his parents

Alexander and Martha (Boning) Cronauer and his daughter Suzanne (Cronauer) DeVost.

There will be no calling hours or funeral at this time. Graveside services will be held at a later date TBD.

The family requests in lieu of flowers donations be made to the Franklin Fire Department and EMS, the

Sidney Community Band, or Helios Care.

A very special thanks to Paula and Paula from Helios Care for their outstanding kindness, support, and care in Bob’s final hours.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.bennettfh.com for the Cronauer family.