Saratoga Springs, NY - Robert E. Park, age 71, died unexpectedly Sunday, Dec. 11, 2011 following complications from an unexpected illness. Bob was born in Brooklyn in 1940, was raised in Mamaroneck, NY by his parents Stewart and Evelyn Park. He graduated from Tufts University in 1962 and entered the service of his beloved country as a pilot in the US Air Force, serving with exceptional distinction for 27 years. His heroic efforts yielded this quiet gentleman the Distinguished Flying Cross for heroism and extraordinary achievement while engaged with the enemy in Southeast Asia. Earning numerous honors and accommodations, Bob retired from his military career in 1989 as a Lt. Col. Upon his retirement Bob settled in Saratoga Springs and entered his second career with the Adirondack Trust Company. The next 13 years his professional dedication was to the Trust Company, utilizing his exceptional skills and quiet demeanor in the departments to which he was assigned. Along with this second career Bob also served the Town of Saratoga in the planning department and was a member of the County Republican Committee. Bobs dedication to his country was only exceeded by his unquestionable dedication and love of his adoring wife Jan Ingmire Park and his beloved sons Derek and Christopher; daughter in law, Kimberly Mosher Park and treasured grandchildren Coulson and Christiane Park. He will be sadly missed by his brother Stewart and sister Carol MacNeil and sister in law Barbara Ballance. In his extraordinary life, Bob was a quiet but solid beacon teaching by example to simply enjoy the wonderful pleasures of life and not let the outside world encumber that which is most important to one?s happiness. He was exceptional in his relationships with those who were part of his life and was a gentlemen to all. He will be missed by numerous extended family members and countless friends. Bob also found time to tinker with his personal hobbies, notably his model trains, Triumph Roadsters and of course, his John Deere tractors. Visiting hours will be at the Burke/Bussing and Cunniff Funeral Homes 9:30 AM Friday with a short service at 10:30 AM, followed by a graveside memorial with military honors at the Gerald B.H. Solomon National Cemetery at noon. Contributions in lieu of flowers may be made to The Friends of The New York State Military Museum, 61 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 or Saratoga PLAN. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.