Robert E. “Bob” Black, 73, Andover
. . . as “Poppy” to his beloved grandchildren, some things must remain a secret.
ANDOVER - Robert E. “Bob” Black, 73, died at home on Monday (Dec. 14, 2020) after battling cancer for five weeks.
Mr. Black was born on Nov. 15, 1947 in Wellsville to Robert L. and Grace M. (Smith) Black. He was a 1966 graduate of Scio Central School and later served in the United States Army from 1967-1970 with a tour in Germany. After his army tour, he started working at Big N in Hornell where he met Joanne M. Criss. They were married a year later in St. Ann’s Church in Hornell on Oct. 14, 1972. They settled in Andover shortly thereafter, much to Bob’s surprise since Scio and Andover were such rivals in sports.
Bob worked as an inspector at Dresser-Rand Corp. for 40 years, retiring in 2013.
In addition to his wife of 48 years, Bob is survived by two sons, Jason (Becky) Black of Manchester and Andrew Black of Andover; a brother-in-law, Robert Frost of Dundee; three grandchildren, Olivia Black, Sydney Black and Landon Black; his dear friend and co-worker at Dresser for many years, Bob Shelly; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a sister, Roberta Frost; two brothers, David Black and Daniel “Danny” Black; a baby sister, Madelene Black; and his precious grandson, Emerson Robert Black at six weeks.
Bob was very involved in community activities. He served on the Andover 4th of July and Andover Haunted House Committee’s for 25 years. He also served on the Andover Central School Board for four years and attended many marching band events.
Bob was an active member of Andover Historical Society and Andover Golden Agers. He played Santa’s Helper for over 40 years but as “Poppy” to his beloved grandchildren, some things must remain a secret. He was a long-time member of Blessed Sacrament Church where he belonged to the Blessed Sacrament Choir and Andover Ecumenical Choir.
As a patriotic American, on September 11th, Bob, along with his son, Andrew and his grandnephew, Brandon Brown, placed an American flag at every residence in Andover. He truly became Andover’s adopted native son. Additionally, Bob was an avid Buffalo Bill’s and Sabre’s fan and actively rooted for the St. Bonaventure Bonnies.
Due to Covid-19 concerns, there will be no visitation at this time. A memorial service will be held in the spring at a date to be announced. Burial with full military honors will follow in Hillside Cemetery in Andover. Arrangements are under the direction of Baker-Swan Funeral Home and online condolences may be offered at www.baker-swan.com.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Bob’s name may be made to Andover Ambulance Corps, P. O. Box 726, Andover, NY 14806 or to SPCA Serving Allegany County, PO Box 381, Wellsville NY 14895