Robert Agne

Robert Beltz Agne, age 93, passed away on September 21, 2017 at Providence Place which was his residence for the past 5 years. He lived most of his life in his beloved upstate New York, first in Utica and later in New Hartford, before moving to Chambersburg, Pennsylvania to be near his daughter and family.
Bob was born in Utica, New York on August 16, 1924 to H. Roberts and Mildred Beltz Agne. He attended the Utica School System and graduated from Utica Free Academy in 1943. He was immediately drafted and joined the army, proudly serving in the South Pacific. He was honorably discharged in 1946. He was extremely proud to have served his country and shared many stories with his family, especially as he aged. A cherished box of WWII letters written to his parents is treasured by his immediate family. On November 6, 1948, at Westminster Presbyterian Church, Bob married the love of his life, Betty Carr Harris, and remained her devoted husband for 50 years until her death on May 5, 1999. He was employed at the Utica Cutlery Company for 40 years until his retirement in 1986, leaving his position as Vice President of Production and Manufacturing. People wanted to work for Bob and gave their best. He was an exceptional mentor and helpful friend to many employees. Always filled with respect for all, he freely gave fatherly advice with kindness. What defined Bob was the caring way he lived his life, marked by a remarkable sense of work ethic and integrity.
He was a past member of First Presbyterian Church in Utica, New York, having served many years as a deacon. After his move to Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, he became a member of Middle Spring Presbyterian Church in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania, where he served as a member of the building and grounds committee. He was a member of the American Legion and VFW in both Chambersburg and Utica as well as a member of the 25 Year Club and Golf League at Utica Cutlery Company. Throughout his life, he was extremely generous and helpful: whether it was lending money to employees in need, helping widows in his church, assisting relatives with household projects, delivering food to shut-ins, transporting church members without vehicles, or even at 90, helping other needy residents at Providence Place. He was an excellent role model for his family. The many life lessons he shared about respecting people, working hard, and being honest in all things will remain with his family always.
Bob was an avid fan of sports all his life. He was a dedicated New York Yankee fan. During the celebration of his 8th birthday, his parents took him to Fenway Park in Boston to see Babe Ruth play for the Yankees. Bob’s family cherishes a home movie made of Bob getting Babe Ruth’s signature that day. The autograph is a treasured part of the Whitelock household. Bob played little league baseball and slow-pitch softball, always covering first base. Throughout his childhood, Bob also enjoyed collecting baseball cards and amassed a wonderful collection that his family treasures to this day. In high school, he wrote articles for the local newspaper covering high school sports events, often joking about riding his old bike miles to deliver the articles to be printed. As a star athlete in high school, he lettered in basketball and baseball. He proudly shared stories with his family about being on the state championship basketball team during 1941-1943. During his early adult years, Bob coached and managed little league and Babe Ruth baseball leagues. Many of his former players have mentioned the legacy that Bob left, revealing the indelible impact he had on their lives. He always set a strong example to his players to strive above and beyond their abilities, while emphasizing the importance of consistent practice. He also prided himself by being an original subscriber of Sports Illustrated in 1954, receiving his first issue on his 30th birthday.
He is survived by his thankful daughter, Susan Whitelock (husband Dr. James Whitelock) of Chambersburg, PA, adored oldest granddaughter, Jennifer Kreyl Leibowitz (husband Ben) of Phoenixville, PA, cherished youngest granddaughter, Lindsay Whitelock Bair (husband Tim) of Newtown Square, PA, sister Kay Agne Rasmussen of Clinton, NY, brother-in-law George Harris of New Hartford, NY, numerous nieces and nephews, and a host of treasured friends and neighbors.
Bob brought joy to all those who crossed his life, often labeled “Mr. Nice Guy.” He was a constant source of encouragement, listening to troubles that others had, always with caring ears. He devoted himself to his family, teaching his daughter true core values, to which she is forever grateful. Bob leaves behind a wonderful legacy. His granddaughters were the greatest joys in his life. He spent his last years enjoying being updated on his granddaughters’ careers and lives, via personal notes and visits. He will be forever loved and missed, but his impact on others will live on forever. He understood the essence of who a person truly was and made life better by being a part of it.
The family wishes to express their deepest thanks to those who brought Bob joy and comfort during his years at Providence Place: Providence Place caregivers and employees, Grane Hospice, and Genesis Rehabilitation Services. The family deeply thanks our circle of devoted friends who have surrounded us with love and support for the past 5 years.
A Celebration of Life Service to honor Bob’s life and accomplishments will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, October 28, 2017, at Thomas L. Geisel Funeral Home, 333 Falling Spring Road, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. Reverend James Richwine, retired pastor at Middle Spring Presbyterian Church, will officiate. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Interment will be private and at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, Bob would be pleased to have everyone perform a caring act of kindness: do something special for someone in need, make a cherished memory with your family, or make a contribution to an organization close to your heart, as he always did.