Robert "Bob" Edwin Miskosky, 91

Robert "Bob" Edwin Miskosky, died Friday, May 30, 2014, at the age of 91.

He was a loving, compassionate man to family, friends and, on occasions, to complete strangers.

He was born Aug. 26, 1922, to the late Kathryn Pahl Miskosky and Frank (Frantisek) William Miskosky in East Patchogue, N.Y. He attended elementary school in E. Patchogue and graduated in 1940 from Bellport High School in Bellport, Long Island, N.Y.

A Navy veteran of WWII, and Korea, he attained the rank of Commander before retiring. He enlisted Nov. 18, 1941. He attended the Navy Academic Refresher Unit at Cornell College in Iowa. He attended the Navy School of Music, Washington, DC. He soon entered flight training; training stations included: NAS Quonset Point, Norfolk, San Diego area, and later served in the Reserves at Floyd Bennett Field, Brooklyn, N.Y. His active service lasted 12 years; honors include: Good Conduct Medal; Pre-Pearl Harbor medal; American Defense; WWII Victory Medal, American Theatre; Korean Victory and Armed Services Reserve. During his service, he flew most of the Navy planes that were around at the time.

In 1950, he was flying off of the U.S.S. Maury (AG16) to Saudi Arabia, the Persian Gulf, and Kuwait). The Gulf waters were being checked for depth, probably with a future thought of oil tankers.

In 1951 he wed Wilhelmina E. Werdermann. In 1954, a beloved daughter, Linda, was born. He continued in the Reserves, as well as in the family florist and nursery business. He was a lifetime member of the American Legion Post 69 in Patchogue, N.Y. A Mason, he belonged to South Side Lodge, Patchogue, N.Y. He was an Episcopalian.

A resident of Hendersonville since 1980, he played guitar and/or banjo in various musical groups, including the Buddy K Band.

He was predeceased by his brothers, Roman Miskosky and Roger Miskosky; and a sister, Kathryn Miskosky Bozotis.

He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Wilhelmina "Billie" Miskosky; his daughter Linda Miskosky Bellofatto; his grandson Michael Robert Bellofatto; and a great-granddaughter; as well as several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to extend special thanks to Compassionate Home Care and its caregivers for extraordinary service. Thanks also go to Four Seasons Compassion for Life (hospice).

Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, June 3, 2014, at Shepherd Memorial Park with Brother Phillip Kuykendall officiating. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, June 2, at Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors, 125 South Church Street in Hendersonville.

As a former florist, Bob had always requested flowers. Flowers will be appreciated. Donations would also be appreciated to the Alzheimer's Association, www.alz.org.

An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thosshepherd.com.

Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors is in charge of arrangements.