Robert Betar

Colonie -Robert Warren Betar 79 of Colonie, NY passed away on Sunday at his home after a brave 6 month battle with cancer, he had his 3 children by his side. Bob was born on February 22, 1938 in Rensselaer. After graduating from high school, Bob worked for the Rensselaer County Sheriff's Dept. for many years before retiring from NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation in 1992. Bob belonged to many organizations, but he was most proud to be a member of the NRA, NYSRPA and the Sheriff's Association. He was an avid hunter, fisherman, photographer and NY Yankees fan. His passion was contagious and were passed along to his children, grandchildren and his many friends. Bob also loved his Farmer Boy Diner family, who threw a great picnic party in his backyard. Bob was very thankful for that day to have all his family and friends in one place, he carried the memory of that day to the end, so a big Thank You to Cynthia, Christopher Jack and Bob's Alaska fishing buddy John. Robert was married to Linda (Coburn/Ladd) Betar, the love of his life. Unfortunately, she passed away on October 11, 1992. He carried the torch for her till the end and was comforted by the knowledge he would soon see her again in Heaven. Bob's parents were John and May (Jackson) Betar who predeceased him. His sister Ruth Betar also predeceased him 8 years ago. He is survived by his step children James (Irene) Coburn, Mike (Kimberly) Coburn and Cindy (Mark) Clark. His grandchildren Jennifer (Tim) Barrett, Stacey (Austin) Williams, Colleen Coburn, Kayloni Enzero, Natasha Thompson, Jaime (Philip) Taylor, Ryan Clark, Treba (his beloved German Shepard) and many great grandchildren. Close cousins Virginia Powers, Barbara (Len) Johnson and many nieces and nephews. Bob was a great Dad to his kids and grandchildren, a great friend to his friends. With the help of Hospice (Stacey) we were able to care for Bob at his home till his final hours. It was a team effort and we want to thank everyone for their kindness and generosity. In lieu of flowers, Bob gave to many charities... anything to do with animals, the NRA, various Military Veterans Associations, Diabetes, Cancer, Alzheimers and Hospice to name a few. Funeral from the W. J. Lyons Jr. Funeral Home 1700 Washington Avenue Rensselaer Thursday evening at 6:30 PM. All are welcome to attend. Relatives and friends are invited and may call to the funeral home prior to the service from 4-6:30. Interment in Bloomingrove Cemetery, North Greenbush will take place Friday at 10 AM.