NORWICH – Herbert M. Robinson died Jan. 27, 2010. He was born in Walton on March 19, 1916 to Murray and Frederica R. Robinson. A graduate of Walton High School and Syracuse University College of Engineering, he was a member of Theta Alpha Fraternity and a trumpeter in the University marching band.
During World War II, Herb was employed in the defense industry at Scintilla Magneto division of Bendix Aviation Corporation in Sidney, where he developed and patented a formula for a current-conductive sealant. He then started his own company, Dilectron, in Walton, designing and producing capacitors for the aerospace industry. He was subsequently hired by a customer, General Laboratory Associates, to create an in-house capacitor division in Norwich. Herb remained employed there for 26 years, retiring in 1981.
An accomplished downhill skier, Herb developed and operated the Walton ski area on Bear Spring Mountain from 1942 until 1956. As an avid outdoorsman, he also enjoyed canoeing, camping, sailing, and mountain climbing, reaching the summit of 18 of the 46 Adirondack High Peaks. He was also a member of the American Rhododendron Society and made it his later life’s work to create hybrids which would thrive in the upstate NY climate. A lifelong Episcopalian, Herb served as Organist at churches in Walton, Norwich, and Oxford, and belonged to the American Guild of Organists.
Mr. Robinson is survived by his wife of 55 years, Juanita Yarnes Robinson, son Herbert M. Robinson III of Lincoln City, Oregon, son James Andrew Robinson; daughter-in-law Audrey and grandsons Wesley James and Dillon Joel of Norwich, daughter Janine Robinson of Saratoga Springs, and daughter Lynne Robinson; son-in-law Howard McNeely, and grandson Addison McNeely of Nashville, Tenn. Herb was pre-deceased by his brother James L. Robinson of Walton, and is survived by sister Alice R. Perley of Naples, Fla. as well as five nieces and two nephews.
Funeral services will be held at Christ Episcopal Church in Walton, on Saturday at 1 p.m. Luncheon will follow in the church parish house. Arrangements are with Courtney Funeral Home, Walton.
Condolences to the family may be made online by visiting our website at www.courtneyfh.com.