Robert James Robinson

WILMINGTON—Robert James Robinson, 82, died at his home in Wilmington on July 7, following a long battle with cancer.
Born on November 17, 1943, to Harry “Tip” and Francine Robinson, Robert grew up in West Wardsboro and graduated from Leland & Gray in 1961, where he was a standout multi-sport athlete. After a short period working at Mount Snow, he served three years in the US Army in Europe.
Upon returning to Wilmington, he pursued a career in carpentry, worked for Rokon Company, and then began a 35-year career at GS Precision in 1970.
In 1972, Robert married the love of his life, the late Susan Waldron, and together they made their home on Lisle Hill Road.
He was a dedicated outdoorsman who loved hunting and fishing with his brothers, but he was perhaps best known for his extraordinary gardening skills. He took great pride in starting his vegetable plants from seed each spring and generously sharing the seedlings with family, friends, and neighbors. When harvest season arrived, he was just as eager to share the abundance from his garden. His remarkable talent was recognized many times at the Deerfield Valley Farmers’ Day Fair, where he earned the honor of Gardener of the Year on multiple occasions.
Although Robert had no children of his own, he was a devoted uncle who was always there to lend a helping hand, offer support, and share his time with his nieces and nephews. His kindness, generosity, and quiet strength will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Robert is survived by his brother, Harry Robinson and his wife, Clara, of Jamaica; his sisters-in-law Jane Waldron, of Wilmington, and Connie Kmec, of Vernon; his nephews Alan Robinson and companion Bridget, of Wilmington, Travis Robinson and wife Kathy, of Augusta ME, Adam Robinson and wife Megan, of Austin TX; and his nieces Amber Robinson and husband Casey of North Haven, CT and Ashton Robinson and husband Scott, of Searsburg. Robert is predeceased by his wife Susan, and brothers Alan and Kevin Robinson. Graveside services will be held at 11 am on Saturday, August 1, at Riverview Cemetery, Stowe Hill Road. A celebration of life will follow the services at the Deerfield Valley Rescue Community Center, Stowe Hill Road. A second graveside service will be held at 11 am on Saturday, August 8, at Fairview Cemetery, Fairview Road, West Wardsboro. In lieu of flowers the family encourages those wishing to honor Robert’s memory to plant a garden and share its harvest with others. Memorial donations may also be made to Deerfield Valley Rescue, PO Box 854, Wilmington, VT, 05363.