Obituary of Robert Thomas Redden

Dr. Robert T. Redden, 96, retired Dean of Faculty at the State University of New York at Geneseo, died Sunday, May 20, 2012 at the Livingston County Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation in Mt. Morris, NY. Dr. Redden was a longtime resident of Westview Crescent in Geneseo. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Josephine Mistretta Redden of Geneseo, son, Russell (Mary Ellen) Redden of Batavia, granddaughter, Regina Redden of Gates, grandson, Robert Redden of Binghamton, brother, Joseph Redden of Perry, sister in law, Jean Redden of Hinsdale, NY, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his son, Ronald Redden, and brothers, Eugene and Richard Redden. He was born Robert Thomas Redden on April 12, 1916 in Little Valley, NY the son of Leonard and Helen Szedlowski Redden. He began his teaching career in 1940 in a small school in Rock Glen, NY. It was interrupted for military service in 1942 when he volunteered for duty in the US Army during World War II. He rose from Private to Captain F.A. while serving in the South Pacific as a Field Artillery Officer. After being placed in the Army Reserves in 1946, he earned his Master's Degree at the University of Rochester and his Doctorate Degree at the Maxwell School at Syracuse University. He then returned to teaching at Syracuse University and later the State University at Buffalo where he would become Chairman of the Geography Department. He was invited to Geneseo as Associate Dean of Instruction in 1962 and in 1967 was made Dean of Instruction. He retired in 1976 after a career of 36 years in education. Bob was active in public service having served as Village Trustee from 1970-1974 and served as Vice Mayor in 1973-1974. He was also a member of the Livingston County Planning Board for many years. he was a member of Geneseo Rotary for 35 years having served as President in 1976-1977. He was a keen student of military history, especially the Civil War and often lectured on the subject. Bob was a pioneer in television having served WBEN-TV Channel 4 in Buffalo from 1954-1962 and will always be remembered as "Weatherman Bob". No prior calling hours. Memorial Services will be held Friday, May 25, 2012 at 11 AM at St. Mary's Church, 4 Avon Rd. in Geneseo with Father Edward Dillon officiating. Interment will be in St. Joseph's Cemetery in Perry. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Geneseo Foundation, Erwin 201, 1 College Circle, Geneseo, NY, 14454.