Robert E. Peeler

Robert E. Peeler, 98, of Fonda, New York, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2026, surrounded by family. He was born on June 11, 1927, in Fultonville, New York, the son of the late Albert and Maude (Briggs) Peeler.

Robert attended local schools and, after leaving school, worked on several farms in the area. As a young man, he worked alongside his father and brothers, all respected tradesmen in the local community. Over the years, he developed skills in concrete work, painting, and wallpapering, and was known for the quality of his craftsmanship and his willingness to lend a helping hand. He also worked for the Fonda, Johnstown & Gloversville Railroad, at the United States Navy Supply Depot in Scotia, New York, and later for Fonda Manufacturing and the White Mop Wringer Company until his retirement. During those years, he was also a member of the Fonda Volunteer Fire Department's Snell Hose Company No. 2, where he volunteered alongside his fellow members in service to the community. Retirement did not slow him down. He continued working for the Village of Fonda as a crossing guard and later for the Town of Mohawk Transfer Station, where he enjoyed seeing and talking with community members.

Robert proudly served in the United States Army from 1952 to 1954 as a member of the 101st Airborne Division. After returning home, he continued to serve his country in the United States Army Reserve, completing eight years of military service.

On July 6, 1957, he married Regina Anna Hazzard. Together, they built a home and family and shared many years of love, hard work, and memories.

Robert enjoyed traveling with Regina and exploring different parts of the country. One of his favorite trips was to Wheeling, West Virginia. His lifelong love of horses led to one of his most treasured adventures: a month-long road trip to the western United States with his son, Robert “Jake” Peeler. During that trip, he fulfilled a dream of seeing wild horses roaming free, observed bison in their natural habitat, and visited numerous state and national parks.

Family was always at the center of Robert’s life. He enjoyed clambakes, cookouts, and backyard gatherings. He faithfully attended the Fonda Fair every year. While raising his family, he and Regina often scheduled vacation time so they could spend each day of fair week with their children. Following Regina’s passing, he proudly continued that tradition with his granddaughters and other family members, especially enjoying the rodeo and horse shows.

In his later years, one of Robert’s favorite pastimes was working on large jigsaw puzzles. He was often found at the table, patiently fitting pieces together, enjoying both the challenge and the satisfaction of watching the picture come to life.

Robert was known for his strong work ethic, practical skills, and willingness to help others. Whether it was building, repairing, or renovating, or offering advice, family members and friends knew they could count on him. Even as age no longer allowed him to do the work himself, he continued to share his knowledge and experience with those who sought his guidance.

Robert was predeceased by his beloved wife, Regina Anna Peeler, on September 22, 2005.

Robert is survived by his children, Kathy Andrews (Lawrence) and their children, Tanya and Lawrence Jr.; Dawn Hofmann; Donald Peeler (Kathy) and their children, Jeremy and David; Ronald Peeler and his daughters Audra, Courtney, and Trish, and his son, Christopher; and William Peeler (Tina) and their children, Christopher, Nicole, and Samantha. He is also survived by his stepdaughter, Ann Bedell (Robert), and their children, Lisa and Robert; his stepson, Robert Johnson (Donna), and their daughter, Laura; his grandchildren, Nancy Minch, Joy Kilmartin, Dawn Telfer, Bobbie-Rae Telfer, Sharon Gravel, Susan Hastings, Richard Hastings, and Jenika Peeler; as well as many great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his parents, Albert and Maude (Briggs) Peeler, Robert was predeceased by his son, Robert “Jake” Peeler; stepdaughters Barbara Telfer and Eileen Hastings; step-granddaughter Carol (Hastings) Myers, step-grandson Eric Hastings, grandson Ronald Peeler Jr.; step-grandson Mark Johnson; step-grandsons Daniel Bedell and David Bedell; brothers Richard, Frank, and Donald Peeler; sisters Lottie Fonda, Lillian Miller, and Mildred Devenpeck; and numerous relatives and friends he loved throughout his long life.

The family will receive relatives and friends from 11 to 1 PM on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at Betz, Rossi, Bellinger & Stewart Family Funeral Home, 15 Main Street, Fultonville. A Funeral Service will immediately follow, with Pastor William Pitcher officiating. Burial will follow in Maple Avenue Cemetery, Fultonville.

The family would like to extend a special thank-you to his granddaughter, Nikki, and Richard Lang for the care and companionship they provided Robert each day in his later years. Richard’s kindness, patience, and devotion brought comfort and dignity to Robert's life and meant more to our family than words can express. We will always be grateful for the love and support he showed.

The family would like to thank everyone who has offered prayers, support, and kindness during this difficult time. Although he passed just days before his 99th birthday, Robert lived a life rich in family, friendship, service, and memories spanning nearly a century. His legacy of hard work, generosity, faith, family traditions, and love will endure in the many lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Ayres Memorial Animal Shelter, 133 Hilltop Road, Sprakers, NY 12166.