12/24/2025
Robert "Bob" Edward Furman, 87, of Owego, New York, passed away Sunday, December 21, 2025, peacefully surrounded by his family. Born on May 4, 1938, in Binghamton, NY, he was the son of Frank J. and Pauline (Friedel) Furman. Robert was predeceased in childhood by his sister Louise, and by his mother, father, and step-mother, Gladys (Schumacher), and is survived by his sister Kathy (Andrews) of South Carolina.
Bob is survived by his three sons: Scott (Cheryl) of Midlothian, VA; Greg of Higganum, CT; and Todd (Kim) of Sturgis, SD. He leaves behind three adult grandchildren, whom he adored: Sarah Furman of Midlothian, VA; Camdton Furman of Ocoee, FL, and Austin of Owego, NY.
Bob graduated from Union-Endicott High School in 1956 and began his college studies at Bucknell University. After a significant medical challenge interrupted his education, he recovered and went on to earn his associate degree from Broome Community College. Determined to continue learning, Robert later attended evening classes at Harper and Elmira Colleges while building his professional career.
Shortly after graduating from BCC, Bob joined International Business Machines (IBM), where he enjoyed a 33-year career as a Senior Staff Engineer and Engineering Manager. Known for his technical expertise, steady leadership, and mentorship, he was respected and admired by both his colleagues and friends.
In July 1960, Bob married Karen Anderson, daughter of the late Camdton W. and Virginia M. (Wolff) Anderson. Together they built their home in Owego, NY, and shared more than five decades of marriage filled with love, laughter, and family until Karen's passing in January 2015.
Bob and Karen were avid campers who loved the outdoors and were enthusiastic collectors of Hummels, Swarovski crystal, Steiff stuffed toys, historic railroad lanterns, and many other items that caught their interest. Most of all, they cherished visiting and spoiling their grandchildren whenever they could, creating memories that their family will always treasure. After Karen's passing, Robert continued to travel for and attend his grandchildren's special events throughout their high school and college years, remaining a constant and supportive presence in their lives.
Bob was an active member of First Presbyterian Union Church in Owego, where he served as a deacon, contributed on several committees, and regularly attended Bible study with a close circle of church friends. He also served his community as a volunteer member of the Owego Fire Department, Croton Hose Company 3.
Bob always enjoyed "tinkering" and helping others, and he poured that energy into many hobbies over the years. He was an amateur radio operator, volunteer fireman, avid sportsman, and a reliable fixer of anything broken or in need of renovation. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, colleague, and friend—admired for his kindness, dry wit, and unwavering love for his family.
The family extends heartfelt appreciation to the staffs of Brookdale Midlothian Assisted Living, Naborforce, Bon Secours St. Francis Medical Center, and Bristol Hospice for their companionship and compassionate care provided to Bob during the last 18 months while he was in Virginia.
Funeral arrangements are being facilitated by Estey, Munroe & Fahey Funeral Home and will be announced by the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Robert's memory to Tioga Arts Council, 179 Front Street, Owego, NY 13827, Tioga Historical Society. 110 Front Street, Owego, NY 13827, or the Owego Fire Department, 87 North Avenue, Owego, NY 13827.
