Robert A. Betzler

Robert A. Betzler, age 83, passed away on Saturday, March 4, 2023, after a courageous battle with cancer. Bob was born on August 23, 1939, in Ithaca, a son of the late Donald

C. and C. Louise (nee Stilwell) Betzler. He graduated from Interlaken Central School in 1957 and from Cornell University with a Master’s degree in education. He taught 7th grade science at Interlaken Central/South Seneca Schools and retired in 1984. Bob was an avid cyclist, runner, cross country and downhill skier. He competed in multiple triathlons, ski marathons, running and cycling events at a high level into his late 70’s. He also hiked/kayaked and canoed throughout the Finger Lakes and Adirondacks/ High Peaks region for many decades. In addition, he was an avid RC airplane enthusiast, building many planes which he also flew. He was proud of his Interlaken heritage and assisted with many events and groups throughout the community. Bob was incredibly dedicated to the maintenance and upkeep of the Interlaken Reformed Church and helped with the food pantry with his wife Phyllis for many years. He was one to help with many projects and never asked for anything in return.

Bob was preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis in 2018, and by his brother, Don in 2015. He is survived by his nephew, Matthew (Michelle Miller) Betzler of Pavilion, NY; sister-in-law, Kathy Dey of Romulus and the Stilwell and Betzler cousins. Sincere gratitude is extended to the staff at Ferris Hills in Canandaigua and Bob’s caregiver, Candace Knaak, for their compassion and professional care during his final days.

A Celebration of Life will be hosted at the Ginny Lee Café in Lodi on Thursday, March 30, 2023, from 1:00 to 4:00pm. Kindly consider a donation in Bob’s memory to Interlaken Community Action Group, PO Box 305, Interlaken, NY 14847 or visit www.interlaken-ny.us  or Finger Lakes Boating Museum, PO Box 575, Hammondsport, NY 14840 or visit www.flbm.org

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