Robert (Bob) Aldrich, Sr., 86, of Derby, VT died on July 6, 2023 at his home surrounded by his loving family.  He was born on February 22, 1937 in Newport, VT to Ira and Beatrice (Coutts) Aldrich.  On October 12, 1959 he married the love of his life Betty Corkins who survives him.

Bob took care of his toddler brother Dean when their mom passed and then when their dad passed a few years later, Bob became the father figure for Dean.  When Dean married and had children of his own—Ben, Chad and Elizabeth—he became Grandpa Bob to them. Bob's happiness grew when Dean and his wife Christie moved back into the neighborhood. As Bob's health declined Dean reversed the roles and with much patience let Bob help him in the woods and with his sugaring.  Niece Beccy Hardy held a special place in his heart.  He loved it when she would bring the kids down to see him and his tractors. Bob appreciated all the help he received from Beccy and husband John throughout the years and especially these last few years when Bob's health was failing.

He worked on the family farm for many years.  Retiring from farming he went to work at Agway delivering grain and spraying farmers' fields.  Agriculture was always close to his heart.  Retiring from Agway he started his own business doing odd jobs with his tractors and chainsaws.  One of his favorite hobbies was cutting firewood.

Bob was the kindest, friendliest and most caring person.  He would give the shirt off his back if he thought someone needed it more.  Anyone that moved into the neighborhood-Bob and wife Betty would lovingly adopt them and they would become part of the Aldrich family.

He was always there for the town that he lived in.  Volunteering with his tractor and chainsaw doing anything they needed help with.  Anyone in need-he was the first to offer his many services.

Bob's love for his family was evident to everyone.  Betty was the love of his life and he flirted with her to the very end.  His granddaughter Amanda and grandson Brent had a special bond.  From the time he could hook up their car seat in the tractor they rode with him for many hours.

Bob's kids, grandkids and great grandkids were his pride and joy.  Anyone that he could get to listen were granted with a story about them.

Bob looked forward to when his son, Robbie, would visit as then his family dinners were complete with all his kids home. There was nothing that made him happier than to be with his wife and kids.

Along with Betty, Bob is survived by his children:  Ruth Aldrich and partner Rob Gunn of Island Pond, VT,  Rob Aldrich, Jr. of Wainscot, NY and Amy Patenaude and husband Luke of Newport Center, VT.

He is also survived by his grandchildren:  Amanda Hughlock and husband Blake, Brent Patenaude, Jennifer Royea and fiance Kevin Taylor,  Carolyn Smith and husband Albert, Katie Holt and husband Eric, Robyn, Emma and Corey Gunn.

Great grandchildren: Alek and Ashton Royea, Kaeden , Brie and Isaac Hughlock, Lucas Holt, Kayde and Kolton Maxwell.

Brother:  Dean Aldrich and wife Christie.

Sister in laws:  Gail Corkins, Sandy Judd, Judy Theberge and husband Andre

Brothers in law: Bobby Corkins, Ricky Corkins, Keith Corkins and Kenneth Corkins.

Bob was predeceased by his parents Ira and Beatrice Aldrich. Brothers: Jim Aldrich (Joyce) and Bill Aldrich. Sister:  Beatrice (Sister) Nelson (Roger).

Bob leaves behind an abundance of nieces and nephews, cousins and many friends.

There will be no calling hours per Bob's wishes.  A celebration of Life will held on July 30th, 2023 from 11am-1pm.  This will be held at Amy and Luke's camp located at 800 Aldrich Lane off from Herrick Road in Derby, VT.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Robert's name to Siskin Coutts  PO Box 565 Derby, VT  05829. On-line condolences at curtis-britch.com.