Robert E. Estes Jr. Obituary (1935

Bob passed peacefully, surrounded by his family on February 13, 2024. Survived by Sally Estes, his loving, devoted wife of 65 years. His Children - Faline (William) Tyler, Roger (Deanie) Estes, Dean (Lisa) Estes and Robin (Dale) Shuknecht His Grandchildren - Roger (Ann) Estes, Ben (Colleen) Estes, Bob (Katie) Estes, Bill Tyler, Sam (Elizabeth) Estes, Joe (Andrea) Estes, Rebecca (Dusty) Bezek, Bob (Greg) Tyler, Lee (Anna) Shuknecht, Sarah (Matt) Geissler, Elizabeth (Dennis) Schuck, Richard Estes, Adam Estes and Michael Leach His Great Grandchildren - Kathryn, Liam, Bailey, Iris, Olivia, Jack, Arthur, Luke, Martin, London, Henry, Cole, Ingrid and Sophie. We mention each and every name because Grandpi knew each child's name and who they belonged to. He had a special relationship with each grandchild and great grandchild. His mind was with him until the very end. Surviving Family Members - sister Marilyn Beck, sister-in-law Elizabeth Estes and several nieces and nephews Predeceased by - his parents Robert and Dorothy Estes, his brother Ken Estes, his brother-in-law Ronald Beck Bob was born in Rochester, NY on December 29, 1935. He graduated from Arlington High School in Poughkeepsie, NY in 1953. He then went on to graduate from Cornell University with an Associates Degree in Agriculture in 1955. After graduation, he returned to the home farm, Honey Locust Farms, in Caledonia, NY. He and his brother were the 6th generation of Estes' to work the ground on Maxwell Station Road. He continued to work the fields into his 70's before passing the steering wheel on to the next generation. Bob founded the NYS Big Buck Club in March of 1972. It was founded to honor and document White Tail Deer and Bear in NYS. Bob was both a measurer for the Boone and Crocket Club and the NYS Big Buck Club. Hunters came from near and far to have their racks to be measured on Sally's kitchen island. Bob was recognized in 2018 for 50 years of measuring service with the Boone and Crocket Club. His eldest daughter Faline took him and Sally to Springfield Missouri to receive the award. He shared his love and wisdom of hunting with all that would listen. His grandsons, Bob and Bill, have taken on the measuring duties with equal respect because they were taught by the master! The number of hunters in the Estes family is truly impressive. Bob himself went on his last hunt in the fall of 2020. He was a charter member of the Westwoods Fish and Game Club in Caledonia, NY. Bob took an interest in collecting various items. He took the family on many "family road trips" searching for antique wagons and farm implements. He also has an impressive collection of Genesee 12 Horse Beer hitch memorabilia. His passion for raising Texas Longhorn cattle started in 1977. He had many impressive cattle over the years and there are still calves being born each year. Before that, Bob raised and drove oxen. Many pair were displayed at the NY State fair, County fairs and parades in the area. Another area of his life that his grandsons, Sam and Joe, later developed a passion for. He thoroughly enjoyed the NYS fair either manning a display for endless hours for the NYS Big Buck Club, bringing a pair of oxen or cheering on the Belgians of Honey Locust Farms. Many friends that became family were made over his years of attendance. Even when going seemed difficult he still enjoyed the sights and sounds of the fair. One of the greatest secrets on Maxwell Station Road was who the area Santa was that arrived at neighboring homes each Christmas Eve. Bob proudly wore a Santa suit for over 50 years listening to children's wishes. He appeared in private homes, parades, breakfasts with Santa and schools. Old Fashion Day has been hosted by the Estes family for nearly 50 years. Bob enjoyed his own displays and sharing farming history with all that attended on the last Sunday in April every year. He took great pride in seeing people come year after year with their families, rain or shine. Family and Friends may call Friday, February 16, 2024 from 3-7pm at the Alhart Funeral Home, 3068 Main Street, Caledonia, NY. His funeral will be held on Saturday, February 17, 2024 at 11am at the Mumford First United Presbyterian Church 893 George Street, Mumford, NY Private Interment. Donations can be made in Bob's name to the Village of Caledonia Park Reserve. Please mail donations to 3095 Main Street Caledonia, NY 14423.