IN MEMORIAM: Robert B. Carson, 80;
Noted SUNY Oneonta Professor, Author
ONEONTA – Robert B. Carson, SUNY Oneonta professor emeritus of business and economics and author of an influential textbook and other works, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, June 24, 2015, with his wife of 57 years, Marjorie, at his side. He was 80.
Bob was born July 6, 1934,in Greensburg, Pa., to Harry R. and Mary Catherine (Postlewaite) Carson. He spent most of his childhood in Syracuse, and graduated from Hamilton College in 1956 with degrees in history and philosophy.
After serving in the Army and enlisting with the New York National Guard, he earned a masters and Ph.D. from Syracuse, then taught business and economics at a number of colleges before joining SUNY Oneonta’s faculty in 1966.
Bob remained at Oneonta State until his retirement in 1993 and was recognized for his dedication with professor emeritus status the same year after 33 years of teaching.
He is survived by his wife and children, James A. (Christa Peeters) Carson of Baldwinsville, and Sarah E. (Terry) Whiffen of Clifton Springs; and his wonderful grandchildren whom he loved dearly, Kevin Carson, Catherine Whiffen, Ryan Carson, and Grace Whiffen. Also, by sister-in-laws Jean Carson and Jane Verback, and numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a brother, Larry W. Carson, and his brother-in-law, Karl Channing Verbeck.
A passionate educator, Bob (Dr. Carson) always enjoyed an inspiring conversation or lecture that created a challenging and introspective look into current events.
He authored, or co-authored, more than a dozen books on the subject of economics and history including “Economic Issue Today,” which is in its eighth edition and “What Economists Know,” published in four languages.
He continued to author books after his retirement, spending much of the last decade on an autobiographical work of Depression-era children entitled, “The Missing Link: Recalling the Forgotten Generation of American Dreamers Who Grew Up and Came of Age Between ‘The Greatest’ and ‘The Boomers’,” a critical analysis of his generation and the only generation not to produce a United States president.
A private family celebration will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to a charity of your choice.
Arrangements are entrusted to Lewis, Hurley & Pietrobono Funeral Home.
