Today, our father passed away unexpectedly.  

Robert J. Bain Sr., 81, passed away unexpectedly on January 3, 2026. He was born on July 12, 1944, in Middletown, New York, to Marie Smolin Bain and John Bain.

Robert spent his working life as a skilled carpenter, proudly serving as a member of the Carpenters Union and later as an independent contractor. He took great pride in his craft, and his dedication was evident in the quality and care of his workmanship. Building was more than a profession for Robert—it was a lifelong passion.

Outside of work, Robert found joy in simple pleasures. He enjoyed spending time in his woodworking shop and had a special interest in collecting and fixing old tractors. He also had a deep affection for his cats and cherished trips to the Amish country in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, where he appreciated the craftsmanship, quiet pace, and sense of tradition.

Robert is survived by his wife of 62 years, V. Linnea Bain (Grosso); his three sons, Robert J. Bain Jr. and his wife Cherise Bain, Gary J. Bain and his wife Annette Santopietro, and Daniel E. Bain and his husband Kenneth J. Hanauer. He was a proud grandfather to Ashley C. Jacob and her husband Justin Jacob, Nicole Bain, Thomas Jones, and David Jones, and a loving great-grandfather to Wyatt, Abbey, and Luca Jacob. He is also survived by his beloved cats, Princess Isabella, Buddy, Lizzy, Tigger, and Sassy, who brought him daily comfort and companionship.

A dinner gathering of family and friends to celebrate Robert’s life will be held on Wednesday, January 7th at 5:00 PM at the Wallkill Gun Club, 316 Bruyn Turnpike, Wallkill, NY.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Joshua Fund Dog Rescue, PO Box 408, Jay, NY 12941.