Robert 'Bob' A Messia Sr

Robert (Bob) A. Messia Sr., 84

Melrose - Robert (Bob) A. Messia Sr., 84, of Melrose, beloved husband of Eleanor M. VanBuren Messia, died suddenly Tuesday, September 29, 2009, at Albany Medical Center Hospital with his loving family at his side.

Born and raised on Ida Hill in Troy, he was the son of the late Albert and Ellen (Sahaghian) Messia.

After Bob graduated from Troy High School, class of 1943, he entered The Fighting 69th Infantry Division and was stationed in Germany during World War II. Once discharged, he attended Albany College of Pharmacy, graduating with the class of 1950.

Bob lived in Melrose for the past 53 years. He and his wife owned and operated Esquire Drug Stores for almost 60 years.

He was a longtime member of the Country Club of Troy where he enjoyed many hours of golf, cards and laughter. He was a friend and benefactor to the entire community and will be missed by all who knew him.

With a spirit that couldn't be matched and a sense of humor you couldn't help but love, Bob leaves his family and friends with wonderful memories and laughter that will stay with them until they join him for a scotch sour on the other side.

Survivors in addition to his wife include his son, Robert A. Messia Jr. of Brunswick; his four daughters, Janet (Anthony) Prezio of Troy, Peggy (Steve) Durbin of Dallas, Carol (Barry) O'Sullivan of Long Island and Karen (Frank) Wendling of Troy; his grandchildren, Robert Messia III, Joseph Messia, Mary McBride, Daniel Messia, Giovanna Prezio, Corey, Fiona, Claire and Aidan O'Sullivan, Lucas and Ethan Wendling and a great grandchild, Alexa McBride. He was predeceased by a brother, Gerald A. Messia.

Funeral Services will be held Monday at 12 noon at the Bryce Funeral Home, Inc. 276 Pawling Avenue Troy.

Relatives and friends may call at the funeral home on Sunday from 3-7 PM.

Interment will be in Gerald BH Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery Schuylerville.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in memory of Robert A. Messia to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105.

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