BLACK RIVER, NY — Robert B. Hanlon, 91, of 29288 Hadley Road, Black River, passed away Wednesday, Aug. 8, 2018, at Samaritan Medical Center, Watertown.
Born March 11, 1927, in Watertown, NY, a son of John and Louise B. (Burgess) Hanlon, he graduated in 1945 from Adams Center Central and following school was drafted into the US Army. He entered on June 19, 1945 and served during World War II with the 11th Air Born Division. He was honorably discharged as a Corporal on Jan. 12, 1947.
Robert returned home and worked for NY Central Railroad in Watertown for eight years as a yard brakeman and conductor.
He married Marilyn Burnup on July 4, 1951.
In 1951, he and his wife started the family farm with seven cows. Over the years it expanded and Robert and Marilyn worked the farm full time. Their son, Michael who worked on the farm since he was high school has continued to operate the farm. However the love and passion for farming kept Robert working and bailing hay up until 2014.
He also enjoyed flying airplanes and multi engine planes.
Among his survivors are his beloved wife Marilyn Hanlon, four sons and two daughters in law, Michael and Philip Hanlon who still reside on the family farm in Black River, William and Diane Hanlon, Adams, Timothy and Sue Hanlon, Grand Island, NY, a sister, Mary McBride, Glen Park, four grandchildren and two great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
A brother and three sisters, John Hanlon, Margaret Wilson, Helen Spink, and Louise Steele, all died before him.
Arrangements are with the Bruce Funeral Home, Black River.
Burial will be held in Black River Cemetery at the convenience of the family.
Condolences may be made at www.brucefh.com.
