Donald B. "Bud" Robinson, Jr.

HAMMONDSPORT - The evening of April 26, Bud was asked to answer his final call. He, very unexpectedly, passed from this world, and our lives, into a place where we know he is waiting for us to one day join him.

Donald "Bud" Robinson, Jr. was born Oct. 11, 1948 in Bath, the son of Josephine Shaut and Donald B. Robinson, Sr. After graduating Haverling High School, he joined the Marines and received an Honorable Discharge before serving his country again in the U.S. Army, 25th Infantry Division. His service included a year in Vietnam. His patriotism and desire to serve continued when he was Commander of the Veterans of Foreign War Post 1470 from 1997 until 2002. He also served as chaplain of the Color Guard for the past twelve years. Bud was very proud of his recent efforts to see that his fellow Vietnam Veterans received the "Welcome Home" they deserved long ago, and had been planning a reunion for them to be held in August at Post 1470 in Bath.

When Bud was not serving his country, he was serving the public. He dedicated his life to law enforcement as a New York State Trooper from 1974 to 1994, when he retired as an Investigator. He continued to help and serve others as part time Village of Bath Police Officer and dispatcher from 1998 until the present. Bud's dedication, experience, work ethic and perserverance was second to none. He was held with highest regard by his peers, and often by those he arrested. He treated people fairly and with compassion.

Bud's biggest interest in life was his family. They always knew he was there for them and waiting with advice or a hug whenever needed. He valued the time he spent with his parents, hunting and playing cards or just having a cup of coffee. He shared a very special bond with his sister, Shirley and her husband, David Jessup.

He was most happy when he spent time with his son, Michael and daughter, Kelly. Neither could have asked for a better father and friend. He was a loving, "cool" grandfather to Ryan, Jacob, Madison and Danika. He had celebrated his 40th wedding anniversary on Dec. 29, 2007 with his partner and soulmate, the former Judy Pipe.

Calling hours and Memorial service were held at the First Presbyterian Church , 6 W. Pulteney Square, Bath on Saturday, May 3. Calling hours were held from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. A 1 p.m. Elk and Memorial service was held followed by full Military Honors Service in Pulteney Park. Flowers are acceptable or contributions envelopes will be provided to donate to the family or a scholarship fund being set up at Haverling High School for a student desiring to pursue a career in law enforcement.

Everyone was invited to a luncheon at the Hammondsport American Legion after the services.

Arrangements are by the LaMarche Funeral Home of Hammondsport.