PLEASANT BROOK – Richard (Rick) Robinson passed away on May 16, 2024, of liver failure at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester.
Rick was a lifelong techie who discovered the field of computer programming in high school in Oxon Hill, Maryland, where he also met his future wife, Mary Miga. The spiritual awakening of the seventies brought Rick and Mary to a communal church in New York City for seven years of Bible fellowship and carpet cleaning. In 1987 Rick received a life-saving liver transplant at Massachusetts General Hospital. This gift of time allowed him to build a successful career, nurture a loving family and enjoy years of exploring his hobbies and interests deeply.
Rick was a self-taught programmer during the advent of personal computers. He started database programming in the advertising industry, working for Interactive Market Systems (IMS) for over 30 years. He was a pioneer of working from home even before the World Wide Web was available. Outside of IMS, Rick designed and created several programs to benefit local businesses and the community. Rick was a Raspberry Pi and Maker Space enthusiast and his latest venture, Silly Goat Creative, a Python learning center and store which sold local products and books, was cut short by his illness.
Rick will be remembered for his quiet, approachable nature and his sense of humor. He enjoyed “the simple pleasures”: playing with grandchildren, reading and listening to podcasts, being an avid Washington Commanders fan, walking, camping, a good comedy film and a hot cup of coffee.
Rick is survived by his wife of 42 years, Mary; daughter Rachel Robinson of Cooperstown; sons Robert (Alissa) Robinson and Benjamin (Druziana) Robinson of Oneonta; grandchildren Emmet Labruzzo; Reese, Ruby, Remy Robinson; Ashton Robinson; and a sister, Kathryn Whittaker of Payson Az. He was predeceased by brother-in-law Thomas Miga.
A celebration of life is being planned for mid-September.
The Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown is assisting the Robinson family.
If you would like to send condolences to the family, send an email to Connell, Dow & Deysenroth. We will forward your comments to the family. If you would like to send flowers in memory of the deceased, contact Mohican Flowers at (607) 547-8822, or A Rose is a Rose at (607) 264-3100.
