Robert A. Gedraitis, Sr., 65, of Chapel Street, died on Tuesday, January 1, 2013, at St. Vincent Hospital in Worcester from complications of a lengthy, debilitating illness. He was born in Worcester on October 17, 1947 to Anthony J. and Eunice (Gustafson) Gedraitis and lived most of his life in Holden.
     Robert graduated from Wachusett Regional High School in 1966. The following year he enlisted in the U.S. Navy where he proudly served his country during the Vietnam era. After serving in the military, he worked 37 years for Norton Company in Worcester which later became St. Gobain Co. In June of 1975, Robert married the love of his life, Eileen R. LaPlante.
     He was a true outdoorsman and loved to fish, hunt and boat. He enjoyed vacationing in Rumford, Maine with his family. Robert was a member of St. George Church in Worcester.
He is survived and will be greatly missed by his beloved wife of 37 years, Eileen; his children, Robert A. Gedraitis, Jr. of New Mexico and Kathleen M. Gedraitis of Holden; his brothers, Richard Gedraitis of Orlando, FL and Thomas Gedraitis of Princeton; and his nephews, Richard and Michael.
     Relatives and friends are invited to honor and remember Robert’s life by attending calling hours from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, January 4, at the Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden. A funeral service celebrating Roberts’ life will be held in the funeral home on Saturday, January 5, at 10:00 a.m. followed by burial at Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the United Spinal Association, 54 Nashua St., Milford, NH 03055 or donate online at www.spinalcord.org.