Robert J. Trout

February 7, 2020, age 76. Predeceased by brother, Stephen Trout and sister, Linda Hann. Survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Carol; sons, Daniel (Sarah Betstadt) and Andrew (Brittiny) Trout; grandchildren, Simon and Margot; brothers, William (Linda) and David (Pamela) Trout; and many nieces and nephews.

Robert was an Army veteran, 32nd Armor Division, 5th Battalion, serving in Germany from 1964-67. Upon his return stateside, he worked at Xerox Corp. in production. A supervisor noted Robert’s ability to design and create simple cardboard chutes to be more efficient at his job. The supervisor suggested Robert apply for an apprenticeship program, where Robert excelled, working as a sheet metal welder/fabricator for nearly 33 years. Robert was a proud union member. Although he loved his job, he sought greater creative connection with metal and took up the art of blacksmithing, designing and installing fences and other items for the home and garden. As his skills and abilities developed, he also fabricated precision tooling for other metalsmiths. His role within the blacksmithing community expanded, from attendee to site facilitator for two ABANA conferences. He later became interested in the Arts and Crafts movement and began working in copper, finding precision hammering and design work both challenging and extremely satisfying. Robert was admitted to the Roycroft Renaissance Guild in Metal in 1998 and elevated to Master Artisan in 2001. He enjoyed sharing his skills, artistry, and knowledge with others, was a lecturer and demonstrator at a variety of venues, and found special joy in teaching at the John C. Campbell Folk School.

He was a faithful member of Asbury First UMC and especially enjoyed the Wednesday morning Men’s Group. Some of Robert’s metalwork can be found at the church. 

Robert was a kind, generous, and patient man. He was a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather who found much happiness in caring for his home, gardens, and family. He will be deeply missed. 

No prior calling. A Memorial Service will be held Sunday, February 16, 2 PM, at Asbury First UMC, 1050 East Ave., Rochester 14607. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Robert’s memory can be made to Outreach Ministries at Asbury or the Robert J. Trout Metalsmithing Scholarship, c/o John C. Campbell Folk School, 1 Folk School Rd., Brasstown, NC 28902. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Robert J. Trout, please visit our floral store.