ALTAMONT — Robert Mitchell Rabbin, a respected systems engineer at General Electric who traveled the world, found his great joy in his family.

He died on Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025, after a hard-fought battle with prostate cancer. He was 67.

Born in Brooklyn, he was the son of the late Dr. Jack and Florence Rabbin.

“A proud graduate of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), Robert was one of the first to earn a computer-science degree, laying the foundation for a long and distinguished career,” his family wrote in a tribute.

“He later obtained his masters degree in business administration from Union College. He worked as a systems engineer at General Electric, where his invaluable and rare knowledge made him a respected figure in his field. His contributions at GE left a lasting impact, and he was known for his expertise and dedication to his work.

“Outside of his professional life, Robert was a passionate hobbyist. He had a deep love for trains, especially model trains, and enjoyed traveling whenever he could. In fact, he had the entire New York City subway map emblazoned in his brain for his many trips to his hometown.

“He travelled extensively around the world with family and friends, and would share his adventures with others through colorful stories. His other interests included many outdoor activities, including hiking, speed skating, hockey, cross-country skiing, and camping.

“Over the last two decades, he enjoyed his lake house and the many social gatherings with friends and family out there. His smile was nearly constant and his gift for conversation was unmatchable.

“However, his greatest joy in life was spending time with his family. He cherished moments with his daughters, Jennifer and Rachel, and adored his grandchildren, Luna and Otto. He was known as the ‘duck whisperer’ for his love and devotion to his daughter’s farm, which housed many animals, including ducks, chickens, and geese.

“Robert was also a devoted companion to his dog Ginger, who brought him much comfort in his final years.

“Robert's family and friends will remember him for his intelligence, kindness, and love of life. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.”

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Robert Mitchell Rabbin is survived by his loving wife, Linda Rabbin, his daughters, Jennifer (Alex) and Rachel (Robby) Rabbin, his grandchildren, Luna and Otto, his brother, Carl (Toby) Rabbin, and his faithful dog, Ginger.

In addition, he leaves behind loving in-laws including Susan (Glenn) Evans and Tony (Rita) Schipano.

His parents, Dr. Jack and Florence Rabbin, died before him, as did his beloved dog Nedrow.

A funeral service will be held on Sunday, Jan. 19, at 1 p.m. at DeMarco-Stone Funeral Home at 5216 Western Turnpike in Guilderland. Burial will follow immediately afterward.

Shiva will be observed from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Rabbin residence.

Memorial contributions may be made to support Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Contributions can be made to support prostate cancer research at bit.ly/4hgTvnq