Obituary of Robert Tanner

Robert Harris Tanner, 66, of Vestal, NY, and formerly of Ithaca, NY and Boston, MA, passed away on Monday, March 6, 2017 at his home from cancer. He was born in Liberty, NY, on July 13, 1950, the son of the late Warren and Amy Tanner. He graduated from Ithaca High School in 1968 and later received his Bachelor's degree from Binghamton University. Robert served with the United States Navy from 1968-1974. He was a Contracting Officer for the Office of Naval Research in Boston, MA for 31 years before retiring in 2006. He enjoyed movies, music, and books of all types, but especially history and comedies. Robert is survived by three sisters, Janet (Tim) Decker of Martinsville, VA, Karen (Greg) Phenes of Alpine, and Linda (Roger) Griswold of Alpine; a brother, Larry Tanner of Watkins Glen; five nieces and nephews, Robert (Lauren) Phenes of Watkins Glen, Jackie (Alan) Hughes of Martinsville, VA, Shaun (Sarah) Phenes of Bassett, VA, Matthew (Brandy) Decker of Fieldale, VA, and Quinn Griswold of Alpine; seven great nieces and nephews, Camron, Noah, Roman, Chloe Phenes, and Tristan, Amelia, and Kelsey Decker. As well as his good friends Bill, Hal, Rich and his many friends and co-workers at the ONR Office in Boston, MA. A private family service will be held at a later time.