Obituary of Robert W. Frederick Jr.

Dr. Robert Wendell Frederick, Jr. ("Bob"), former President of Corning Community College (1966-1976), mathematics, and science professor, passed away peacefully at Bampa's House in Corning NY on October 23, 2024 at the age of 96. He was born in Chicago in 1927 to Robert Wendell Frederick Sr. (also an education professor) and Eleanor Machlin. Bob Jr. was educated at Bethlehem Central High School in Delmar, New York, Yale University (BS in aeronautical engineering) in 1948 and a Doctoral degree in Education at Teachers College of Columbia in New York City. His first teaching position was at Fairleigh Dickinson University in Rutherford, New Jersey. In 1953 he married Doris Field Frederick, dental hygienist and later elementary teacher in the CPP school district. They celebrated 64 years together until Doris's passing in October 2017.

He is survived by Cindee, of Watkins Glen; she remained a devoted loving daughter and caregiver helping her dad fulfill his wishes by visiting Niagara Falls and the ocean. In addition to Cindee he is survived by brother Dr. Peter Frederick (Carol Allis) of MN who provided support through regular phone calls; grandson Nick Crosby (of Watkins Glen) dedicated loving supportive helper, caregiver, and companion; granddaughter Ashley Tackett, who provided great assistance when she visited, as well as enormous love and support from her home in KY; and Justin Tackett, grandson by marriage, who consistently provided much needed strength, love, and compassion to the family. Also, cousins, nieces and nephews around the globe. In addition, many other people whose lives Bob touched with his sweet kindness and infectious smile. He will be fondly remembered by many people in Watkins Glen who would see him on daily walks in the village wearing his bright orange sweatshirt, carrying his cane, and chatting with local folks and tourists.

Dr. Frederick spent time in California teaching math, physics and engineering at a community college in Bakersfield. In 1958, Bob and Doris returned to New York to take a position with the New York State Department of Education. In 1966 he was hired as President of Corning Community College; later moving into a faculty position to teach math and physics.

Bob's lifelong passions were his family, sailing on Seneca Lake, science, equity, diversity, inclusivity, cooking, playing piano, asking questions, expanding his mind, and listening to classical music.

As for music, Bob decided to replace the accordion (he played with zest in younger years) with the piano, and eventually classical pieces on a challenging 3-register church pipe organ at Elmira's Grace Episcopal Church. Doris said that the organ was "his biggest love and sharing this love with others his greatest happiness."

Another "biggest love" was his daughter Cindee. She and her Dad agreed on a private family ceremony next to Doris and overlooking Seneca Lake. A place for peace and quiet.

In lieu of flowers, please give to the charity of your choice.