It is with a deep sense of loss and disbelief that all of us at the Roeliff Jansen Historical Society mark the recent passing of Robin Bruce, a longtime and stalwart member of the Society’s Board of Directors. In addition to serving on our board, Robin was a longtime member of the board of the Friends of Taconic State Park. An extremely dedicated docent at the Iron Works Museum, Robin captivated visitors with her enthusiasm, knowledge, and warmth. Fittingly, the Museum is soon to be dedicated in her name.
Also remembered for her devotion to Copake Falls, past and present, the RJHS benefited in many ways from Robin’s legendary and encyclopedic memory, loans from her unsurpassed collection of local history, and by inclusion in both the annual Winter Walk and Copake Falls Day celebrations that she coordinated.
Robin knew where just about anything could be sourced, from custom lanyards and erstwhile children’s games to a bucket truck equipped with a ladder tall enough to hang holiday lights along the historical society’s lofty and otherwise inaccessible roofline.
Armed with both a wicked sense of humor and unwavering attention to detail, as diminutive as she was in stature, Robin was a huge presence in the life of our community and will be greatly missed.
For a long time to come, I know that I am just one of many people who, when a question about Copake Falls arises, will have the automatic impulse to pick up the phone and call Robin…
Lesley Doyel, RJHS President.