Final Patrol: Robert Rickey Benedict

On September 6, 2021, Robert Rickey Benedict passed away following a brief illness, just 4 days after his 68th birthday.
He was born on September 2, 1953 to Robert Leroy Benedict and Rita Garvey Benedict in Plattsburgh, NY and lived most of his life in Willsboro, NY.
Rick graduated from Willsboro Central School in 1971, and then attended Hudson Valley Community College for A/C and Refrigeration. While working, Rick won the last draft lottery and entered the Air Force to service his country in Vietnam. He was very proud of working as a refueling-boom operator on tanker planes. After his honorable discharge he returned to Willsboro. Rick was the true definition of a workaholic. He was always eager to learn and step out on a limb. His careers included the New York State Police where he was also in charge of the Boat Patrol, a NYS diver and Field Training Officer. He owned and operated Rick's Tree Service, Inc for over 25 years, which he loved. He was fondly known as "Rick, the tree guy." "No tree or fee to big." He also worked at the United States Postal Service in the Processing Plant in Plattsburgh. Rick was happiest when he was working, and never sitting still. He could outwork anyone, even at 68. The woods were his happy place. Each spring he would collect sap to boil for 5-String Maple. Throughout the year, he would be in the woods cutting fence post or firewood. His chainsaws were an extension of his hands. He was a great heavy equipment operator including his skidder and excavator. Rick built his own home, even cutting the trees for the interior finish wood. He was a master carpenter and builder. When Rick was not building, logging or haying, he would turn to one of his many other interests, most recently his 1927 Paige Touring Car.
Rick's passions and hobbies included being a pilot, diver, playing the banjo, golfing, riding his motorcycle, working in his huge garden, and saltwater fishing. He loved the outdoors, regardless of the weather. He was an avid deer hunter and in his earlier days, loved coon hunting with his trusty Luke, Lady and Ranger.
On January 10, 1986 he married the love of his life, Christine Tybush Benedict. They shared their lives together for over 40 years on many travels and adventures. While they each enjoy their own interests, they greatly loved and enjoyed their time together. They were each other's "Big Door Prize."
​Rick is survived by his wife, Christine Tybush Benedict, of over 40 years; daughter, Tracey Renee Benedict, and grandson, Avery Benedict, of Sacramento, California; brother, Marshal Benedict, and aunt, Lucille Garvey, both of Willsboro; his loving coonhound and companion, Henry; many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends, who were family; and finally, his special close friends, Donald Bigelow, and Brian and Cindy Pytlak. He treasured all their time together and the Bluegrass songs they shared.
He was predeceased by his parents; brother Keith; many family members; and his best friend, John Sheehan, who he missed every day.