Obituary of Robert Clarence Sanger
ALBANY –
Robert “Bob” Clarence Sanger went to be with the Lord on August 31, 2024 in Albany, NY. His loving wife and children were at his bedside.
He was born in Lowell, Massachusetts, the only child to his adoring parents, Clarence and Merry Sanger. Throughout his life, his ability to endure many health issues was a testament to his strength and resilience. He believed every day was a blessing.
Bob was a loving, caring, generous, and kind person. He had a brilliant mind and genuine talent with music. He was an accomplished vocalist, pianist and organist.
Bob married the love of his life, Elinor, at St. Anne’s Episcopal Church in Lowell, Massachusetts. In June 2024, they celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary.
Bob earned his Bachelors of Science degree in Electronic Engineering from Lowell Technological Institute. Thereafter, he earned his Master’s degree in Theoretical and Applied Mechanics from Cornell University. Later, while pursuing his Doctorate at Cornell, Bob realized that his true passion was teaching and developing young minds in the Engineering Science and Mathematics fields. He continued to teach at Cornell before beginning his career as a Professor of Mathematics and Engineering Science at Mohawk Valley Community College. Bob had the unique ability to effectively teach within three different departments simultaneously, he published in journals, and he was a sought after speaker in his chosen fields of study. He co-wrote and developed course work that was foundational in the Computer Science program where he ultimately became the Department head. This program was renowned for preparing students to transfer successfully to universities including Cornell, RPI and Clarkson. Although Bob was a gifted academic, he would say, more importantly, that he was known for having an excellent rapport with his students. Bob received his Professor Emeritus status after serving for 29 years.
Together, Bob and Elinor raised four children. Nothing made him prouder.
Bob was a member of Immanuel Baptist Church, where he was the organist/pianist for many years, and sang in the choir. Additionally, he donated numerous hours volunteering at the Utica Rescue Mission, teaching Mathematics to the residents.
Bob was honored to be a “Barber-Shopper”, and participated as a member in New Horizons, Utica, NY, as well as The Racing City Chorus, in Saratoga Springs, NY. In addition, he was thrilled to sing and compete with his own quartet group “4 After Fun.” His incredible voice remained strong until the end of his life, leading a “hymn-sing” weekly at the memory care community where he resided.
Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Elinor V. Sanger, and his children, Lorraine K. Sanger of Kittery, ME, Robert J. Sanger of Rensselaer, NY, Kimberly Sanger Jones ( E. Stewart Jones, Jr.) of Loudonville, NY, and Jeffrey T. Sanger of Malta, NY. He is also survived by his dearest friend and Brother-in-law, Charles Miller (Sharon) of St. Petersburg, FL., many nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.
A remembrance event will be held in the near future.
In honor of Emeritus Professor Robert Sanger, memorial contributions may be made to the Mohawk Valley Community College Foundation. These donations will be used to establish a scholarship in his memory, continuing his legacy of inspiring and supporting students. Contributions may be made in Robert’s name to the MVCC Foundation, Inc., 1101 Sherman Drive, Utica, NY 13501, or online at www.mvcc.edu/donate.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the Sanger Family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com
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