Robert P. “Bob” Fitzwater – 60 – of 6703 Burt Hill Rd., Canisteo, (Town of Howard) died unexpectedly Friday morning (January 25, 2013) at his home.

Born in Bath, NY on May 11, 1952 and was the son of Carson & Jean Strait Fitzwater.

Bob grew up in Bath where he attended Haverling High School.  He was a veteran of the US Navy, serving his country from 1970 – 1974 aboard the USS Independence.

For about 16 years, Bob was employed as a Strip Crew Leader for Morrison – Knudson (M.K.) Corporation and later Alstom Corporation.  He later was employed for about 9 years at TTA Corporation and most recently at Bombardier Corporation.

He was former member of the Arkport American Legion, the AMVETS and the Hornell Association.  Bob enjoyed hunting & fishing and building model airplanes.  He also built and operated remote control (RC) airplanes.  He was a die-hard Buffalo Bills fan and also enjoyed watching NASCAR and rooting for Jeff Gordon.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Carson & Jean Fitzwater; 3 brothers, Douglas Fitzwater, Stephen Fitzwater & Jack Fitzwater; 2 sisters, Joan McLaughlin and Barb Crowe.

Surviving are his fiancé, Stephanie (Booth) Raymond, with whom he resided for the past 16 years; 1 son, Bobby Fitzwater of Bath; 1 daughter, Devon (George) Weed of Rochester; 3 brothers, Dick (Dawn) Fitzwater of Bath, Tom (Cindy) Fitzwater of Hornell and Pat (Linda Eason) Fitzwater of Bath; 1 sister, Tracey Phillips of Bath; 3 grandchildren; several nieces & nephews.

The family of Robert P. “Bob” Fitzwater will receive friends on Wednesday from 4:00 PM until
6:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY where a Memorial Service will be held at the conclusion of calling hours at 6:00 PM with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating.

In recognition of his service to his country while serving in the US Navy, the American Flag at the Dagon Funeral Home will be flown at half-staff.