Robert J. Brewer, 86
WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. — Longtime businessman Robert Joseph Brewer, 86, of Sweetwood Retirement Community, died on Sunday, May 4, 2014, at Sweet Brook Care Centers.
Born in North Adams on Sept. 16, 1927, a son of Joseph and Clara E. Paquin Brewer, he attended schools in North Adams, graduating from Drury High School in 1948.
A decorated Army veteran of the Korean War, he served as a sergeant with the 7th Division's motor pool.
Mr. Brewer owned and operated of the former Bob's Mobil Station for many years.
He was a communicant of the Parish of Sts. Patrick & Raphael and was active in the former St. Raphael's Church, serving on the Parish Council and Finance Committee and volunteering at many church functions. He also was a member of the Berkshire Gas and Steam Engine Association and was a collector of gas engines and lawn mowers. He was a lifetime member of the Connecticut Antique Machinery Association in Kent, where most of his collection is on display.
He and his wife, the former Dorothy A. Lanois, were married on March 22, 1952.
Besides his wife of 62 years, he leaves a son, Alfred J. Brewer and his wife, Carolann, of Granby, Conn.; a daughter, Debra Gorzkowski and her husband, Kenneth, of Enfield, Conn.; five grandchildren, Krista Pochron, Kathryn Neff, Megan Amrich, and Amy and Brian Gorzkowski; two great-grandchildren, Carter and Haylee Pochron; many nieces and nephews, and two sisters-in-law, Ruth Brewer and Patricia Brewer
He was predeceased by a granddaughter, Jennifer Brewer on Nov. 11, 1993, as well as his brothers Francis J. Brewer and Joseph Lee Brewer and a sister, Claire Farfour.
FUNERAL NOTICE — A Liturgy of Christian Burial to celebrate the life of Mr. Brewer will take place on Friday, May 9, at 11 a.m. at St. Patrick's Church. Burial will follow in Eastlawn Cemetery.
Calling hours will be Friday morning from 9 to 10:30 at Flynn & Dagnoli-Montagna Home for Funerals, West Chapels, 521 West Main St., North Adams. Memorial donations are suggested for Parish of Sts. Patrick & Raphael or to the St. Patrick's Food Pantry through the funeral home.
The Brewer family would like express a special thank you to the staff at Sweetwood and the dementia unit at Sweet Brook for their wonderful care and concern.