Family

Although the news has been full of stories and topics that ordinarily would have had me offering my opinions and comments, I have been busy with family health issues. My father was dealing with heart problems and my brother is battling cancer. On July the 30^th my father lost his battle; but my brother continues with chemo therapy and radiation. Dad’s passing was sudden. Around noon on the 30^th I spoke with him and he told me he was dealing with a clogged kitchen sink. He was in good spirits and we had a lively conversation. At the end of the call I told Dad I would call him over the weekend. His usual response was “Call anytime … I’m always here”.

My niece, Kim, made her scheduled visit to see my Dad later that day to help him set up his meds for the week and just check in on him. She found him upstairs. He had had a heart attack in the hours after my telephone call and before her arrival. She made the 911 call but Dad was already gone. It has been difficult for family because Dad’s passing was so sudden; but I suppose it was a blessing for him. These last months he had become increasingly worried about his ability to remain independent and continue to live in his own home. Because of Kim’s involvement Dad was able to stay in his home and keep his independence and dignity. He was loved and he will be missed.

Robert Anthony Seaby

1924 - 2009

Robert A. Seaby, husband to the late Patricia Ann (nee) Graham, father of Robert James and Thomas Michael, grandfather to Kimberley Smith, Kristin Seaby, Lauren Seaby, Brian Seaby and Matthew and Devin Davis and Great Grandfather to Jakob and Dylan Smith passed away on Thursday July 30th at the age of 85.

Mr. Seaby was born in Baltimore City on January 19, 1924. He attended Sacred Heart Parochial School and Baltimore Polytechnic High School graduating in 1942. Immediately after graduating from “Poly” Mr. Seaby began working for the Western Electric Company at Point Breeze. He entered the U.S. Army in March of 1943 at the age of 19. He was assigned to the 976^th Field Artillery Unit with the 5^th Army and saw action at Anzio and Monte Casino. Mr. Seaby was awarded two Bronze Stars and the Purple Heart for the injuries he received while serving in Italy.

Upon his discharge from the Army in 1945 he married his high school sweet heart, Patricia Ann Graham. Mr. Seaby returned to work at Western Electric as a draftsman and he retired as a mechanical engineer in 1978. He and his wife Pat resided for most of their lives in Dundalk where he was an active member of St. Rita Parrish. His wife, Pat, passed away in December of 1993. They were one year shy of their 50^th wedding anniversary.

Throughout his life Mr. Seaby enjoyed tinkering around the house, yard and garden and for many years he and Pat were proud owners of Golden Retrievers. Prior to and after his retirement he was an active member of the Dundalk American Legion Post No. 38, serving as Adjutant for several years. During the early fall season both Rob & Pat enjoyed visiting Ocean City. Pop-Pop, as he was called by his grandchildren, enjoyed family gatherings, a cold glass of iced tea and a well made crab cake