Robert V. Jackson

Robert Verne Jackson, 80, of North Syracuse, NY passed away peacefully on Friday, December 27, 2024, after a lengthy hospitalization, with his wife and sons by his side. Bob was born in New London, CT to Yeoman 1c Gerald L. and Norma O. (Cross) Jackson. When his father deployed to the Philippines in 1945, Bob and his mother moved to her family home in Essex, NY where the family settled when World War II ended. Bob graduated from Willsboro Central School in 1962, as salutatorian of his class, and attended Union College in Schenectady, NY on scholarships, receiving his Bachelors Degree in Electrical Engineering in 1966. He accepted a job at General Electric in Syracuse, NY “because he knew a pretty girl from his high school” had moved there with her family. The girl’s hospitable parents obligingly and perhaps unwittingly played Cupid by inviting the “hometown boy” to attend church and Sunday dinner with them each week. After a two year courtship, Bob married Linda Kime on July 27, 1968, in Geddes United Church of Christ in Syracuse. The wedding was officiated by Linda’s father, Rev. Albert Kime. Bob and Linda were blessed with two sons, Eric and David, later welcoming foster daughter, Lynn White. As an amputee since a childhood bicycle vs. car accident, Bob channeled his love of sports into being the scorekeeper and manager for his high school basketball team. He supported and encouraged Eric and David in their many sporting events, and Lynn’s cheerleading. Unable to convince his draft board that there was something an amputee could do in the military, Bob served his country by devoting his 40 year engineering career with GE/Martin Marietta/ Lockheed Martin to designing the very best computer chips he could for many radar and sonar projects for all branches of the military. His technical expertise was recognized with awards from the company. While still working, Bob volunteered weekly for North Area Meals on Wheels, using his computer skills to update the drivers’ route sheets to find clients’ homes. Bob was an amateur radio (ham) operator, WB2BJW enjoying the hobby for 55 years, both in Syracuse and at their snowbird home, Travelers Rest Resort in Dade City, FL. He volunteered for public service events, helping with communications at the Mountain Goat Run, the Halloween Pumpkin Patrol, the St. Patrick’s Day parade among others. He received the Ham of the Year award for his dedication. At Travelers Rest, he also served as the sound engineer for the many church services and entertainment events. Bob was always the go-to guy for any computer or electronic problems. For 52 years he was a member of Pitcher Hill Community Church, where he sang in the choir, served on the consistory and as church treasurer and taught Sunday School. A volunteer Cub Scout and Boy Scout leader, he thoroughly enjoyed sharing his interests in ham radio, astronomy, computers and many other areas. He taught merit badge classes, helped organize the Pine Wood Derby, camped with the troop for two weeks each year at Sabattis Scout Reservation in the Adirondacks, and did anything else needed to help the boys and the troop. Bob was awarded the Order of the Arrow from the Boy Scouts, but was proudest of the certificate that says “To Mr. Jackson, for always being there.” Bob had a quick sense of humor, and was famous for his puns. He even joked with his nurses. Friends have recalled his patience, his endearing personality, his loving spirit, his sense of humor, and his devotion to his family. Predeceased by his parents and daughter-in-law, Kerry, Bob is survived by his wife of 56 years, Linda Kime Jackson; son, Eric of Clovis, CA; son, David, and daughter-in-law, Sara, of Saratoga Springs, NY; his foster daughter, Lynn of Syracuse, and his brother, Ronald of Essex, NY. Also surviving are grandchildren, Sky Stone of Emeryville CA, Caroline, Nora and Evelyn of Saratoga Springs and Lynnelle, Leyana, Lilyana, Lucius and Linnda of Syracuse. Also by Linda’s family, Donna and Jay Collette of Randolph, VT and Glenn Kime of Syracuse and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Calling hours will be at Fergerson Funeral Home from 4 to 7 pm Friday, January 17, 2025. The funeral service will be at Pitcher Hill Community Church, 605 Bailey Road, North Syracuse at 11:00 AM Saturday, January 18, 2025. Donations may be made to Pitcher Hill Community Church, or to North Area Meals On Wheels, 413 Church Street, North Syracuse 13212.

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Robert V. Jackson

December 27, 2024