Obituary of Robert Martin Trott
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our dear father, father-in-law, brother, uncle, and grandfather, Robert Martin Trott, at the age of 97.
Dad grew up on Topping Avenue in the Bronx with his parents and brother, Bruce, along with many aunts, uncles, grandparents, and cousins. After his marriage to Terry Cohen of New York City, they moved to Ridgefield, NJ, where they resided for approximately 30 years. They then moved to Hallandale Beach, FL, where they lived for another 25 years before relocating to Basking Ridge, NJ, to be closer to family.
Bob attended the Manhattan High School of Aviation Trades until he enlisted in the Navy at age 17 in 1944 during WWII. He was stationed on the USS Siboney aircraft carrier as a Radarman in the South Pacific during the New Guinea and Philippine Invasions. He was discharged in 1946 and later called back to the reserves in 1950 during the Korean War. During this time, he entered the Manhattan School of Optics to become an optician, then worked for his father in the embroidery industry in Union City, NJ, eventually becoming President of the Lace & Embroidery Association.
While residing in Ridgefield, Bob was active in the community, serving on the Board of Health Department and the Democratic Committee. He was an avid bowler with the B’nai B’rith Organization and helped develop services for Jewish holiday observances at various institutions. Additionally, he was a member of the Jewish War Veterans and the VFW of Bernardsville, NJ - Post 7858. Bob had a passion for woodworking, creating furniture, and gardening during his years in Ridgefield.
Bob also loved the classic big band sound and had an extensive collection of music, including theater and solo vocalists. He possessed a deep baritone voice and could often be heard singing show tunes around the house. His collection of old movies on VHS included black-and-white films, war movies, and westerns; he could name any actor in them.
While living in Florida, he served as President of his Condo Association, continued his involvement with the local bowling league, and became a member of the Hallandale Beach volunteer Police Department.
Bob is predeceased by his beloved wife of 61 years, Terry (Cohen) Trott. He leaves behind his loving family, including daughter Jill (Trott) Jacques and husband Bill of Watchung, NJ; son Mitchell Trott of East Stroudsburg, PA; brother Dr. Bruce Trott of East Greenbush, NY; and four grandchildren: Sara Beth Jacques, Brandon Keith Jacques, Russell Kevin Jacques, and Trevor Nathaniel Trott. He is also survived by nieces Dr. Suzanne Trott of Studio City, CA, and Laurie Trott of West Hollywood, CA, as well as additional nieces and nephews in Tampa, FL.
He will be remembered as a tall, gentle man whose nickname in his youth was “Treetop.” Bob was a leader in every community he joined and was known for his social, friendly nature, his love for telling jokes and stories, and his genuine desire to help others. He was among the last of a dying breed of WWII veterans, and we thank him for his undying service. He will be deeply missed.
Funeral services were held privately.
Donations can be made in his memory to the Jewish War Veterans at www.jwv.org or the Jewish Defense Fund at https://www.jewishdefensefund.org/.
