Obituary of Robert Carlsen

Robert "Bob" Carlsen, 52, of Hamden, passed away on Sunday evening, March 15, 2015 at his home surrounded by his family and friends, following a long and courageous battle with cancer. Born on March 27, 1962 in East Meadow, NY, the son of the late Joanne Gesecus Carlsen. Bob worked as a mechanic for several years with Boyle Excavation in Harpursfield, more recently he worked for SUNY Delhi until illness forced his early retirement. Mr. Carlsen married the love of his life, Michelle Armendinger at Lake Ronkonkoma on October 22, 1988. The couple later settled on their property in Hamden, where Bob constructed their home with his own hands and the help of some good friends. Bob had pride in everything he did, often saying "if I can't do it the right way than why do it". He had a passion for mechanics, even from an early age he was tearing apart motors and engines to repair them, which led him to becoming a Pit Mechanic at Riverhead Raceway on Long Island. Bob also enjoyed working on classic cars. He enjoyed building and riding motorcycles, often traveling with his friends to Laconia, Daytona and other destinations around the country. Bob enjoyed the outdoors, he was an avid hunter and gun enthusiast. Above all else, Bob was devoted to his family and friends, He was a loving husband, devoted son, faithful brother and a true and trusted friend. Besides his beloved wife, Michelle, he is survived by two sisters: Cate Carlsen of Smithtown and Christine (Kevin) Kidder of Malta; mother-in-law: Ann(Jack) Gunning of Holtsville; father-in-law: Jerry (Donna) Armendinger of Spring Hill, FL; one aunt: Jean (John) Feick of Quakertown, PA; nieces and nephews: Sarah, Devon, Raven, Jerry, Tabitha, Adam, Cassie, Michael and Emma; sister-in-law: Debbie Armendinger of Farmingville; and many close friends, especially Gregg Kujawski and Kenny Pike; He also is survived by his canine companion, Penny; and feline companion, Charlie, both were like children to Bob and Michelle. Bob was predeceased by two brothers-in-law: Jerry and David Armendinger. Friends and relatives are invited to call on the family from 4PM-7PM on Wednesday, March 18 at the Hall & Peet Funeral Home, 134 Main Street, Delhi, NY. A second visitation will be held from 2-4PM and 7-9pm on Saturday, March 21 at McManus-Lorey Funeral Home, 2084 Horse Block Rd, Medford, NY. Funeral services will be private and at the convenience of the family.