Robert LeRoy Haviland's Obituary
Robert LeRoy Haviland of Fort Myers, FL (formerly a longtime resident of Altamont, NY and Cape Coral, FL) passed away after a brief illness, on Tuesday, November 28, 2017. He was 86 years old.Bob was born in Sinnamahoning, PA on August 31, 1931 to Joseph John and Myrtle May Cool Haviland, and had siblings John Edward (deceased) and Vera Louise.He graduated from Andes (NY) Central School in 1949, enrolled in Albany State Teachers College, and interrupted his studies to serve in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1955. He was married to his lifelong love, Beverly (Bev) Jane McIntyre, on February 2, 1957 and they were together until she passed in 2015.He graduated from Albany State Teachers’ College with B.A. degrees in both Social Studies and Mathematics in 1957 and earned an M.A. in Mathematics in 1958. He went on to teach social studies in the Colonie (NY) Central Schools from 1958 to 1991, where he also coached the varsity bowling team (1963 to 1991) to two state championships. In retirement, he and Bev enjoyed Florida as their home while traveling the world.Bob was a servant in the truest sense and lived his life caring for others. Beyond spending his career as an educator, he served his family and was an active member of his church (serving in both leadership and supporting roles) throughout his life. Until his final weeks, he devoted considerable time driving others to doctor’s appointments and helping them with errands through Faith in Action. He enjoyed playing bridge in his community and watching sports.Bob is survived by his children, son Don and his wife Amy Holzgang, and daughter Sarah Whitman and her husband Dave; his sister; his brother-in-law, Philip McIntyre and his wife Lynne; as well as 10 nieces and nephews.A Memorial Service will take place at Hope United Methodist Church, 2006 Chiquita Boulevard South, Cape Coral, Florida 33991, (239) 574-5570. Details will follow. His remains will thereafter be laid to rest at Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Fort Myers in a private ceremony.In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob’s memory can be made to:Hope United Methodist Church2006 Chiquita Boulevard SouthCape Coral, FL 33991 (239) 574-5570Arrangements for Robert’s final care have been entrusted to Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Boulevard, Fort Myers, Florida 33907, (239) 936-0555. To share a story, leave a tribute or to offer condolences to the family at this difficult time please visit Robert’s memorial webpage at www.fortmyersmemorial.com and sign his guestbook.
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