Robert W. Squires of Hampton Bays, known to most as Bob, died at his retirement home in Winter Springs, Florida, on March 6. He was 86.
Born in Hampton Bays in 1927 to Oscar and Garrie (Carter) Squires, he graduated from Hampton Bays School and immediately enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving in the occupied Philippines. He returned to Hampton Bays and led the life of a bayman until his marriage in 1948 to Alice (Raynor) Squires of Bridgehampton. Together they ran a greenhouse and landscaping business from their home in Hampton Bays. When his wife returned to teaching, the business was downsized to just landscaping and continued throughout the ’60s. For many years thereafter he worked alongside his nephew, Frank S. Davis, as an electrician’s helper.
Whenever time permitted he would continue to work on the bays. His passion was boating and being on the water, whether it was for business or recreation. He enjoyed taking the neighborhood children out on the bay to teach them to swim, clam or water-ski. He lovingly restored his antique wooden boat the Chequit III and spent many summers traveling around the twin forks on her.
Mr. Squires was a veteran of the Hampton Bays Fire Department, holding several offices during his more than 25-year tenure. He was also a member of the Fireman’s Exempt Association for many years.
He was predeceased by his wife, Alice; and a grandson, Kevin Rys II. He is survived by his second wife, Elinor Young Bird Squires, originally from Mattituck. Also surviving are his three children, Pamela Rys and husband Kevin of Middletown, Dr. John Squires and wife Diane of Colorado, and Nancy Fraser and husband Dean of Hampton Bays; seven grandchildren, Robert and Melanie Rys, Peter, J. Carter and Sara Squires and Christopher and Jeremy Fraser; and two great-grandchildren, Jerod and Olivia Rys.
A private graveside service will be held at a later date.
Memorial donations may be made to the Hampton Bays Historical and Preservation Society, P.O. Box 588, Hampton Bays, NY 11946, or East End Hospice, P.O. Box 1048, Westhampton Beach, NY 11978.
on Mar 10, 2014