Laurens, NY - The family of Robert Edwin Ahlqvist announce his passing on July 21, 2025. He was born on Feb. 28, 1953 in Staten Island, to the late Margaret Sahlke Ahlqvist and Bertel Andreas Ahlqvist. He graduated from Susan E. Wagner High School in 1971 and became a carpenter apprentice. In 1976, he moved to Laurens. He worked in partnership with his father, building and renovating many homes in the area. Later he and Tracy Spoor founded Right Angle Builders. He retired from the business but continued to enjoy working with wood.

In June 1979, he married Patricia Petoello. Although the marriage ended in divorce, they were blessed with two children. He is survived by his daughter Laura Ahlqvist of Alabama, his son Ryan Ahlqvist of Texas, and grandchildren Lawrance Ahlqvist, Trinity Burnett and Edwin Ahlqvist. Another grandson, Isaiah Ahlqvist, predeceased him. He is also survived by his sisters, Linda Walsh (Jeffrey) of Essex, Maryland and Karen Mann (Robert) of Laurens; and a brother, Eric Ahlqvist (Kelly) of Laurens, as well as many nieces and nephews.

In his younger days, Bob was a talented baseball player, and after moving to Laurens was known for his long home runs playing softball in weekend tournaments. Later in life, Bob umpired softball for many years at Mandy's Bar and Grill in Mt. Vision and became known as "Umpire Bob.''

Bob also enjoyed playing cards, including Canasta with his family and weekly poker games at his brother Eric's house. He always kept those at the table entertained with his one-liners and humorous phrases.

Bob had a gift of gab and had many friends, but none better than Tracy Spoor, a longtime friend and former partner in their construction business. Bob's family is eternally grateful to Tracy and his wife Pam for their generosity to Bob in his later years.

Bob will be remembered for the gleam in his eye when he was about to tell a story or a joke. A celebration of his life is being planned for August 30.

Bob's family has entrusted his care to the Johnston & Stanimer Funeral Home of Morris. Online condolences may be made at www.johnstonfh.com