Robert (Bob) Henry Bleakley, 81, of Jericho, VT, known to his New York family as “Groundmole”, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2018 surrounded by his loving family. Bob was born on July 6, 1937 in Ossining, NY to James and Margaret (Carey) Bleakley. He lived most of his life in Verplanck, NY. He graduated from Hendrick Hudson High School in 1955. He then joined the US Army and served as a combat medic. Bob took great pride in being a Veteran and serving for our country. After his service in the military he later attended Dutchess College and Westchester Community College. He met the love of his life Frances Lent and they were married in 1968 in Verplanck, NY. He worked for many years for Union Carbide and IBM in NY. In 1985 he transferred to IBM in Essex and worked there until retiring in 1991. He then worked for Hendrickson and Associates as a realtor, Underhill ID School and Saint Michael’s College until he officially retired in 1998.

Bob was passionate about volunteering with many organizations. He was an active member of the Verplanck Fire Dept for 30 years, a Cub Scout Leader and Little League Coach. Bob was also actively involved with politics for many years in the Town of Cortlandt.

Bob enjoyed crabbing and fishing on the Hudson River. He enjoyed visiting with friends and family in the Point especially at the Steamboat Dock. He was a lifelong Yankees fan and enjoyed attending games with his family. Bob loved taking walks, hiking, gardening and working out. He enjoyed reading and watching sports and Fox Business with his Kitty beside him. He loved watching movies, playing card games, eating chocolate and maple creemees. He treasured his time with his grandchildren and was proud of each one of them. He especially enjoyed sharing military stories with his grandson Raymond who currently serves in the VT Army National Guard.

Survivors include his devoted wife Fran of 50 years, daughters, Lori Laug and her husband Kyle of Wappingers Falls, NY, Susan Bandy and her husband John of Cambridge, Kathy Cowan and her husband Isaac of Underhill and his son Rob Bleakley and his wife Randie of Idaho. Bob especially loved his grandchildren: Ashley, Raymond, Jessica, Marissa, Marina, Emily, Lily, Sophia, Ella, Austin and great-granddaughter Adalynn. Bob is also survived by his sisters Rose DePalma and Margie Downes and his brothers Mike, Albert and Rich Bleakley. He is predeceased by his brother Jimmy.

There will not be a public service. The family will plan a private memorial at a later date. The family extends a special thank you to the Cardiac Team at Tilley Drive and UVMMC, The VNA of Chittenden County, The White River Junction VA Medical Center, and The Respite House. Memorial Contributions in his name should be made to: McClure Miller VNA Respite House: 3113 Roosevelt Highway, Colchester VT.