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Phyllis Gunther posted a condolence
Jane and family- Norm and I are very sorry to hear of Tom's death. I have many wonderful memories of my time teaching with Tom at Sidney.His sense of humor kept us laughing and made coming to work more enjoyable. Please give my best to all the family.
Phyllis Gunther
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Lorraine Philpott Thompson posted a condolence
He was a WONDERFUL man...I remember his kindness, smile and laugh...he will be missed by all who knew him....our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Lorraine and David Thompson
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David,Laura,Katy Nixon posted a condolence
It was an honor to know and be coached by this wonderful man. He could be stern but yet componsionate. He was the father to a lot of boys who didn't have one. I've had the pleasure of being coached at the State Level by him and later coach with and against him for 21 years. I've also witnessed his humor many times during Sectional Competition... Tom, you are the man... My family, offers our condolences during this time of grief but want to express our celebration for his life.
With much love,
Dave, Laura, Katy Nixon
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Andy and Sue Matviak posted a condolence
We have you in our prayers at this time. I had the opportunity to coach with Tom for 10 years and have my sons wrestle for him. He had the ability to motivate young people and have them reach levels of success that would not have been possible without his guidance. He also was able to change with the times. His humor will be missed by all of us. It's said that events happen in 3's. That being said he joins Bob Sheppard and George Steinbrenner in Yankee heaven. After a few moments with Tom, you know George Steinbrenner would be saying I wish I met you years ago.
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Jill Blincoe posted a condolence
There are no words for the sadness that has been in my heart since I heard the news of Tom's passing.
I have alot of memories of Tom Robertson but the one I will remember the most is when I was working at the Middle School. Tom came down to the main office where I was located with a tape recorder, a stop watch and a whistle and asked me to go to a quiet room and tape record myself blowing the whistle every 30 seconds for 5 minutes. I looked at him and could not believe he wanted me to do that but he explained he was going to use the recording for wrestling practice. As a wrestling coach, the wrestlers had to do rolls. The wrestler would roll to the left/right for 30 seconds and when the whistle was blown again it meant to reverse direction roll the opposite way. Well, because it was Tom, I couldn't say no. So I went to the Nurse's Office and because no one was in there, I thought this would be a good spot. So I proceeded to blow the whistle every 30 seconds for five minutes. When I was done, I took everything up to Tom and told him the job was done. I went back to my desk and thought that was that. Well I sat there with my co-workers laughing about what I had just done and how silly I felt and guess who comes running back down to the office? Yep, Tom and with the recorder, the stop watch and the whistle. He told me I had to do it over. "Are you kidding, why"? Well, during the recording, the bell rang and you could hear it in the background and that just would not work. (Didn't want to get those wrestlers confused) So of course for Tom I did it again without the bell in the background. That was just one of the many funny moments I was lucky enough to experience with Tom.
As I kid we grew up with his kids. He was my teacher and then in my adult life, he and Jane became our friends. My husband Joel and I were lucky to see Tom and Jane last fall at the Sidney football game where they were watching their grandson play.
Tom was a wonderful man and he will be missed by the Blincoe family. Lucky me for having the opportunity to know him
Rest in Peace Tom.
Love,
Jill and Joel Blincoe and Family
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BG (Ret) Pete Palmer posted a condolence
I am sorry I can't make the funeral on the 20th and you have my greatest sympothy for his loss. Coach Robertson served as my mentor and role model since he started coaching me in football back in 9th grade when we went undefeated. His leadership was instrumental to shaping me to attend West Point and then later as an officer in the US Army. He and you all our in my prayers.
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John Shiel posted a condolence
Jane, Robbie and the entire Robertson Family. I am sorry for your loss. I have been a big fan of Tom's for about as long as I can remember. He being a Windsor guy, didn't hurt. I always looked forward to seeing Tom at the Sectionals. His record and legacy will remain forever. I am in Colorado and will be unable to make it back in time for the service. He will always have a special place in my heart; May God Bless you all at this most difficult time.
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Judy Rettberg posted a condolence
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time. Way back in 1959 Tom was my homeroom teacher in 7th grade. He was a fair and compassionate person and will be sorely missed. Peace be with you.
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Christina & Craig Truhn posted a condolence
To Ryan and Family
We are sorry to hear of your Grandfathers death. His Influence on the young people in the area will be missed. It looks like Treyton is following in his athletic footsteps.
Our thoughts are with you at this time.
Tena & Craig Truhn
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Bruce and Dorothy Stetson posted a condolence
Tom was a very special person. Many people will miss him. Knowing Tom has been a blessing for me and you. Jane and family I am so sorry for your loss.
Bruce Stetson
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Chris and Mike Blincoe posted a condolence
My memories of Tom go back to 7th grade Social Studies, He was a great teacher, though we all got sick of outlines every day, we learned. Later in life I drove bus for him and the wrestlers many times, what fun times. My 3 kids all had him as a teacher too, and just loved him. I ran into Tom a little over a year ago in a local store and he came right up and gave me a big hug and of course asked about the family. He then asked if I was still driving bus, when I said I was his comment was" At least you don't have to drive that darn Fessie anymore!" Just like Tom, always a sense of humor. He will be greatly missed by all. Our thoughts and prayers go to all his family and and friends.
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Bill Peck posted a condolence
Jane & children,
I know all of you and my heart is with you at this time. he was a very like liked man with a great sense of humor and he will be missed greatly. Because of work and travel I will not be able to show for services...but just know and am thinking of you all and will be saying a prayer. be strong for his sake and keep your lives moving. God Bless you all and just know that he was a great person, husband, & father.
Bill,MaryAnn, &
Miranda Peck
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Janice Feather (Class of '70) posted a condolence
We had many wonderful teachers in the Sidney schools, but few stood out like Mr. Robertson. He touched and influenced many, many lives and we're the better for it. My sympathies to his family.
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Arnie Jump posted a condolence
I didn't have Tom as a teacher but did have him as a coach. I will never forget going into the wrestling practice room and seeing him standing on the heater barking out instrutions for us wrestlers. Even though he was tough on us to do our best he was kind if and when we were defeated, (until the next practice). Tom will be greatly missed by everyone who had the honor of knowing him.
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Vicki Miller Kulze, Class of '70 posted a condolence
Mr. Robertson, you had us reading, outlining, and preparing for those tough quizzes. You were a huge part of who I am today, and I thank you for that. We will certainly miss you, but the memories will not fade. My thoughts and prayers are with Jane and your family.
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Allen Duke posted a condolence
When I think of St. Paul's, both Tom and Jane are a rich part of the story. I'm glad I served with Treasurer Jane and am sorry I missed Sr. Warden Tom (that would have been a joy).
I value those years teaching across the hall from one another, the teacher room quips, and, of course, the Boilder Room Reunions.
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Tamme DeMulder posted a condolence
Jane, Robbie, Beth, Terri, Geri, Amy, Melissa and Tommy- your family + mine = amazing childhood memories! He was quite a guy - so sorry for your loss.
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Blair & Deb Puffer posted a condolence
To the Robertson family,
You guys have been a part of our life for a long time and I know how hard this is on you all.
Tom was one of a kind and I am so glad for last fall and the Sports Hall of Fame because he had a ball telling his wrestling stories that Friday night after the football game. It was such a joy to see him in his glory. I only wish I could remember events like that man!!
I know you all are so proud of what your Dad and husband accomplished but I think his greatest accomplishment was his family and we are all proud of you guys.
He is up there telling his stories to the coaches and wrestlers and keeping everyone laughing.
God bless you all
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Sally A. Barlow posted a condolence
Thank you Jane and Tom for entering my life in the 1970's. The laughter Tom brought to those around him will never ever be forgotten. Tom raised seven beautiful kids and I am so fortunate to have known the Robertson family. Bless each and everyone of the Robertsons. Love and peace to all of you during this sad time.
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Greg Davie posted a condolence
I am humbled to join the growing list of people adding their memories and condolences. The limited number of cherished keepsakes shown at the calling hours Sunday was to really get a glimpse into his life, as only a few of them were sports/wrestling related. They were mostly family and faith-based.
As I mentioned in another guest book, he may have been the "Legacy" as a teacher and coach to so many, but more important, he was one of God's servants.
I can envision a softball game being organized in Heaven, followed by a night of fishing and a Sidney Wrestling reunion for the fans he mentioned in his speech last fall.
Daily quizzes on freshly mimeographed paper - anyone remember those? Perhaps we can think of those a metaphor for our lives. If we're prepared, we can not fail.
Thank you, Mr. Robertson. There is a reason the old room (202) of the former junior high is now the Sidney Historical Association headquarters.
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Pete Hausrath posted a condolence
Jane and family
My sympathies go out to all of you. Tom was one of my idols when I began my coaching career.I learned the hard way how difficult it was to try and beat one of his teams. He held the Sus league together and was a true leader for section four wrestling. He was a positive influence in the lives of countless students and athletes. His sharp wit will be missed by all who knew him.
Above all his life was full of dedication and meaning. May he rest in peace.
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Burt & Pam Herzog posted a condolence
Jane, you have heard this story a million times, but both Tom and I loved it,and told it to each other often.
Tom & I and one or two other guys were in the swallon Susquehanna River, in an old boat we had found in the flood trash. We had no oars so we were poling the boat, which had several inches of water aboard. As it always happens the water russed to the front and the boat was sinking.I had hip boots on and was certain I would be pulled under and drown. Suddenly, to my amazement Tom is pulling to the shore. I tell him how thankful I am, and ask him how he is able to swim pulling me and my boots.
He then tells me, with a Tom smile, he is walking!
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Dick Germond (SCS'63) posted a condolence
My most sincere condolences to the Robertson family. Coach Roberston was an incredibly talented professional and mentor who touched many of us in our formative years, even those of us who didn't shine quite so brightly as some. He will be greatly missed.
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Bob Van Voorhis posted a condolence
I never had Mr. Robertson as a coach, but did as a social studies teacher. After your school years have long been finished, only a few teachers really stand out in your memory, and Tom Robertson certainly made New York State history come alive for myself and a lot of other students. He provided one of a few high points in my educational process. good man, fine example to others. Hunnot, Tom Robertson. (Goodbye in the Iroquois language)
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Katy Packard (Class of '93) posted a condolence
My condolences to the family. I was saddened to hear of Mr. Robertson's passing. I was immediately taken back to fond memories of 7th grade social studies. I also wanted to pass on to Mr. Robertson's family that while many may not post a note here, Facebook is full of comments and memories from many Sidney alumni that show Mr. Robertson was an adored teacher who left a positive impression on his students. My favorite Facebook post so far is from someone who didn't go to Sidney school, but after seeing post after post about Mr. Robertson, she commented: I did not go to school with you all, however, it appears that Mr. Robertson has done his duty in leaving his memory in all of you all. He will never be forgotten!
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Mike and Kris Turco posted a condolence
Setting the standards for competitiveness, Tom was instrumental in the developement of wrestling in Centeral New York.Section four fans and wrestlers will sorely miss him.
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Ortiz Family posted a condolence
Our condolences for your loss at this difficult time. May God be near to you and be your comfort.
Sincerely,
The Ortiz Family
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Rod posted a condolence
I will always remember Coach Robertson. He was a great coach, teacher and family man. There is a long line of maroon and white wrestlers that will remember him forever. My thoughts are with the family as they grieve their loss.
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Carl Koenig posted a condolence
Jane and the rest of the family -
Thanks for sharing Tom with the wrestling community for so many years. He was a leader and respected coach. He was the yard stick that guide us in all of our endeavors concerning the sport. We are all better people for knowing him and other members of your family. I express my sincere condolence to everyone and know that he will never be forgotten. Wishing you the best.
Your friend - Carl Koenig
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sara dahm posted a condolence
Hi Robertson Family, So sorry for your loss. I am so glad that Laura, Jill and I got to see all of you last saturday. Saying good-bye was really hard. We all have alot of great memories. I couldn't make it today due to work but know that my thoughts and prayers were with all of you. Mrs.Robertson you and my Mom need to start getting together even if it is just to go for a walk. We love you all and our prayers are with you. Love Sara
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Jackie Allen Lingner posted a condolence
Words cannot express the sorrow I felt when I learned that Mr. Robertson passed away. I have so many memories of him; from Sunday school to high school, and beyond. He is a man who will not soon be forgotten. My condolences to you all. Jane, I think of you often.
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Bill Cable posted a condolence
I got the sad news first from Greg Davie, and then Jon DeTemple’s “Huddle�. I was very happy to see him a couple of times last year at the Library while I was there during my mom Marian’s illness. I sent him (and gave Coach Doug Fessenden & Mrs. Drake) my draft nomination of championship Baseball teams of 1962-64. And I cherish his usual smiling photo I took of him at Riverside during the 2005 Alumni reunion.
I first got to know Tom when he was second baseman on the Sidney Townteam in 1961 (with Doug and fellow pitchers Dick Daugherty and Del Hodges)-62. His brother-in-law Fred Philley reminds me of playing against Windsor pitcher Fred Philley in those days. An unforgettable memory of Coach Tom was in 1963 at Delhi as recorded in the paper then: “…the fifth when [my] batterymate Tonsie Smith led off with a curving homer over Delhi’s dwarfed 195-foot leftfield fence, the ball ruled fair only after some delay, and considerable testimony from Sidney third-base coach Tom Robertson.� There is also a great photo of him then with Coach Drake and our co-captains Tonsee and my best buddy Paul Possemato.
May God strengthen you in your time of loss of Tom.
“Wild Bill� Cable '63
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christopher byrnes posted a condolence
What a great teacher,coach andperson Tom was.One word comes to mind with Tom, Respect.He called me "the push up machine" He was a good man.My condolences.
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Michael and Dori Wilson posted a condolence
Mr. Robertson my favorite History teacher, wrestling coach and friend. Always with a smile even if he didn't quite remember your name. My heartfelt condolences to Melissa and Robbie and the rest of the family.
Your friends and Neighbors
Michael and Dori Wilson
8 Forster St.
Otego, NY 13825
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The Rev. Douglas R. Blakelock posted a condolence
I always had great respect for Coach Robertson. He will surely be missed by family and friends.
"Give rest, O Christ, to thy servant with thy saints, where sorrow and pain are no more, neither sighing, but life everlasting." Amen.
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JoAnne (LaRose) Hedrick posted a condolence
My condolences to the Robertson Family. It would be impossible to count all the young lives Coach Robertson touched and made better. My son Sean had the privledge of being one of them. To say he was beloved and respected is an understatement. For Sean he was a role model,teacher, mentor. I attribute many of the wonderful qualities I see in my son now as a man and father to Coach Robertson, we as a family were truly blessed to have him in our lives. A prayer will be offered and a candle lit on my coast (west) for this wonderful man
Another angel has his wings
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Dick McCauley posted a condolence
Although I didn't spend a lot of time around Tom in the past few years, it was always great to see him and talk about things we had done together. We also talked about his kids some of whom I knew and participated in sports with and how proud he was of them.
When I saw him a while ago, he seemed upbeat about his prognosis so I was shocked and saddened by the news. My deepest condolenses to Jane and all of the family. I will miss seeing him as will everyone who knew him and had him for a teacher including my wife and all of my kids. Everyone who knew Tom had their lives brightened by him.
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Al and Marlene Scheer posted a condolence
Another treasure has gone Home. Tom and I were high school wrestlers when we first met. Windsor vs. Norwich. Our paths crossed again as Section 4 coaches. I always liked being around Tom. With all his wrestling success, he remained humble. He wasn't afraid to share his techniques and hints with other coaches. During my early years of coaching, I asked him how to teach the granby roll. His answer: "It takes 3 years."
Jane and family, you are blessed to have loved and been loved by this giant of a man. A love that continues..... We extend our love and sympathy to you all and join with you in thanking God there is another Meeting Place.
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chris dimperio posted a condolence
i was best friends growing up with geri in early years. and rememer going to there house on kipps hill and spending the night. they are a great family. your dad will be missed. god bless
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Noreen (Hoke) Quill ("69) posted a condolence
I echo the sentiments of a couple of my classmates when I remember NYS history with Mr Robertson in 7th grade. I had forgotten about all that outlining! But it was good conditioning for the following years. It was quite a change to go from Pearl St to Jr High, but he made the transition easier with his teaching style. I will always remember him fondly. God bless and comfort your family at this time.
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Kevin Constable posted a condolence
Sorry for your loss. Mr Roberston was a good man and will surely be missed by everyone who knew him.
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Friday, January 31, 2014
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