FORT PIERCE, FL – Robert L. Tryon, 101, of Fort Pierce, FL, died Friday August 30, 2019 at Lawnwood Regional Medical Center in Fort Pierce. He was born in Westfield to Paul and Marguerite (King) Tryon. He was educated in the Westfield schools and was Valedictorian of his graduating class of 1936. During this period, he taught sailing and lettered in track. He furthered his education at Northeastern University where he studied Chemical Engineering and Business Administration from 1938-1941. He spent a year working at Foster Machine. His country called and his military service began. He served in the United States Army as a Sergeant Major during World War II, 1943-1946. After returning home, he began working at Cortland Grinding Wheel in Chester, MA which became Bendix Corporation. He was manager of Formula Analysis and placed in charge of quality control. He retired in July of 1978 after 40 years of service in the Abrasive Industry. He married Faith Goodwin Packard in March of 1949 who was widowed with three children. During his lifetime, he was moderator and Deacon of the 2nd Congregational Church in Westfield and Port St. Lucie, FL. He was a member of the Odd Fellows Lodge and active in other social groups in his community. He was an accomplished square dancer, an avid reader, enjoyed gardening, bowling, bocci and pool with his many friends during retirement. He was preceded in death by his wife, Faith of 64 years, his brother Donald and his sister Elizabeth. He is survived by his daughter, Rosealind R. Tryon of MD and three step children, Harvey B. Packard of Oregon, Sandra P. Smith of Arizona and Ronald F. Packard of Georgia. He also leaves to mourn 9 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. A Funeral will be held on Friday, October 25, 2019 at 11:00 in the Second Congregational Church, 487 Western Ave, Westfield, MA. A reception will follow in the Founders room at the church. Burial in Silver Street Cemetery in Granville, MA. Arrangements are under the direction of Firtion Adams Funeral Service, 76 Broad St. Westfield, MA 01085. www.firtionadams.com
