Robert Charles Somers, a devoted father, grandfather (affectionately known as “Bepa” and “DeeDee”), and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at his home with his loving family by his side on Wednesday, March 4.

The son of the late Charles Somers and Ruth (Brasington) Somers, Bob was born on September 28, 1942, in Monticello, New York. He married the love of his life, the late June Somers, on October 23, 1965.

Bob devoted his life to his family and to his second family—his brothers at the Monticello Fire Department. Following proudly in his father’s footsteps, Bob first served as a volunteer firefighter before beginning his career as a paid firefighter in 1966. He went on to serve the community as a career firefighter for 31 years, dedicating his life to protecting others and forming lifelong bonds with his fellow firefighters. He was a past president of MFD and a Deputy Coordinator for the Sullivan County Bureau of Fire.

When he wasn’t at the firehouse, Bob enjoyed stepping into the role of “professional chef,” preparing meals for family and friends and bringing everyone together around the table. He also loved hunting, fishing, and woodworking—hobbies that brought him great joy and created many cherished memories with those he loved.

Bob was especially proud of his family and treasured every moment spent with his grandchildren. He delighted in teaching them all the important things a grandpa passes down while growing up: how to fish, shoot a BB gun, build a bonfire, ride the lawnmower, and even drive a backhoe.

Bob is survived by his son, Glenn Somers (Jennifer); his daughter, Dawn Randall (Jay); and his beloved grandchildren, Adam Randall (Katelyn), Kaitlin Sisung (Cole), Carson Somers, and Adisyn Somers. He is also survived by his great-granddaughters, Jillian, Bridget, and Cooper, as well as an expected great-grandson. Bob is further survived by his sisters, Carol Panchysyn and Marilyn Bastone; his brother, Russell Somers (Jill); his sister-in-law, Gale Price (Ed); several nieces and nephews; and many close friends and his brothers at the Monticello Fire Department. In addition to his parents, Bob was predeceased by his beloved wife, June Somers.

Bob’s family would like to extend their most sincere appreciation and heartfelt gratitude to Brandi, Danica, and Cindy—especially Jessica and Robin of Hospice of Orange and Sullivan Counties—for their exceptional care, compassion, friendship and support.

Family and friends are invited to gather on Friday, March 13th from 3:00 to 5:00pm at the VanInwegen-Kenny Funeral Home, 401 Broadway in Monticello, with services immediately following at 5pm. Interment of his ashes will follow at Rock Ridge Cemetery in Monticello.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob’s memory may be made to the Monticello Fire Department, 23 Richardson Avenue, Monticello, NY 12701 (www.monticellofd.com) or Hospice of Orange and Sullivan Counties, 800 Stony Brook Court, Newburgh, NY 12550 (www.hospiceoforange.com).