PALMYRA/NEWARK: Age 56, died on Tuesday, May 31, surrounded by his loving family. Whether at the “racino” or his granddaughter’s recital, Rob always seemed to cross paths with an old friend or inherit a new one. With his long hair and tattooed arms, he appeared tough (make no mistake, it was best to keep on his good side), but he was a gentle soul who easily connected with people, no matter their age or social stature. He had an encyclopedia-like knowledge on all kinds of topics, from rare birds to local lore. He could fix just about anything, and was the only one entrusted to remove his grandsons’ splinters (for him, they never flinched). Rob worked in construction until he was shot by another hunter in 1995. The injuries forced an early retirement, though he kept busy with auto repairs, odd jobs, and making his yard look like a park. He was a gardener (no matter how many times Mother Nature tried to interfere), a stamp collector, a coin hoarder, a bird watcher and the commander of the fireworks at family parties (never mind a few close calls with Roman candles). He was passionate about fishing and hunting, and was especially proud to have nabbed a buck on his last opening day (just after finishing his fourth round of chemo). His other loves: spending time at his camp or on his boat in Fair Haven, sitting atop his John Deere, standing among his vast collection of tools and vehicles, and more recently, experimenting with his Titanic-like grill and electric smoker. In between, there were Westerns, ghost hunting shows, slot machines, and every once in a while, a tall Jim Beam. His greatest love, though, was his family. His wife of 20 years, Jean, was truly his soulmate, and he enjoyed a special relationship with each of his kids and grandkids. He was happiest sitting with them around a campfire, listening to tunes and laughing. In addition to Jean, Rob is survived by his children, Sara (Scott) Upchurch, Jessica (Jason) Youngman, Robin Terwilliger Jr. (Jennifer Everett), Beau Terwilliger, and Alicia Terwilliger; grandchildren Katlyn, Maxwell, Jacob and Alivia; brothers Kirk and Ron (Julie) Terwilliger; a large extended family and many friends. He is predeceased by his parents, Carl and Phyllis Terwilliger, and brother, Carl Jr. Family and friends are invited to call at the Robert L. Yost Funeral Home, Inc. at 123 W. Main St., Palmyra, N.Y. from 3 to 5 p.m. on Friday, June 10. A celebration of his life will follow at 5 p.m. Donations can be made to the Lipson Cancer Institute in care of the Rochester General Hospital Foundation, 100 Kings Highway S., Rochester, N.Y. 14617. Please consider honoring his life with a kind act for someone in need.
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