ELLINGTON - Robert E. "Uncle Bob" Rhinehart, 82, of Thorton Road, Ellington, died Monday, Dec. 3, 2012, at home.
He was born May 26, 1930, in Westfield, the son of the late G. Leigh and Lena Murdock Rhinehart.
He was a 1949 graduate of Bemus Point High School, and a veteran of the Korean conflict serving in the U.S. Army.
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For more than 50 years, he was self-employed operating Rhinehart Brothers dairy farm along with his brother, George. He also made maple syrup from the age of four. In addition, he served on the Ellington town board for more than 25 years and the town high-way department for six years.
Bob was a 54-year member of the Ellington Volunteer Fire Department and Fire Police, was a life member of the Chautauqua County Firemen's Fraternity and the Ellington Rod and Gun Club. He was also a member of Veterans of Foreign War Post 6221 of Emporium, Pa., and the Samuel Derby American Legion Post 556, Frewsburg for 47 years.
He was an avid deer hunter, enjoyed making wine, camping, candy making at Christmas, was a loy-al friend to everyone, loved spending time with family and friends, and was happiest when everyone was working hard.
Husband of 59 years to Margaret Bennett Rhine- hart, whom he married Nov. 14, 1953; father of Robert S. (Kathy), Alexander (Judy), Kelly (Debbie) and Casey (Betsy) Rhinehart, all of Ellington; grandfather of 12; great-grandfather of 14; great-great- grandfather of two; brother of the late Mildred Kesby, Walter, Seth, George and Clifford "Tip" Rhinehart. Also survived by nephews and nieces.
Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday in Jordan Funeral Home, Sinclairville. Visitation 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Friday. Burial in Valley View Cemetery, Ellington.
Memorials may be made to the Ellington Volunteer Fire Department; or Meals on Wheels; or Hospice Chautauqua County.
