Robert Neal Speth

Robert Neal Speth of Lower Road in Deerfield, died October 10th after a period of illness. He was the adoring husband of Amy Hamilton Speth, proud father to his two daughters Celia and Victoria, loving son of Dr. Robert and Diann (Kuzmeskus) Speth, and brother to Allison Speth Randall.

Robert was best known for his jovial and affable personality. He lived his life with flourish, enthusiasm and passion. A gifted musician, especially piano and guitar, one could not watch him play without smiling at his intensity and joy. He played in local bands, including Benny Lava, Letourneau & Speth, and often provided entertainment for wedding receptions, restaurants, and art openings.

He was devoted to his family and loved being a husband, father and uncle. He enjoyed spending his summer vacation at his family home on the coast of Maine surrounded by generations of family members. He took great pleasure in being outdoors, hiking, biking, skiing, and especially loved walking his two Westies, Stewie and Lily. He was very proud to have recently joined the elite 4,000 Footer Club, having climbed all Fourty-Eight 4,000 foot mountains in New Hampshire with his best friend Jay Letourneau.

He enjoyed working in the yard and in the many beautiful gardens that he and Amy created together. He poured his heart into his home and was an exceptional and talented cook. One could not visit his home without enjoying an original and aromatic dish he generously shared.

Robert was a graduate of Greenfield High School, class of ’82, received his B.S. from UMASS in Land/Environment Resource Management, and his M.A. in Landscape Design from the Conway School of Landscape Design. He served the community in a variety of roles including the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission, the Recreational Resource Metropolitan District Commission, and served as Zoning Administrator in Manchester, VT. He ran his own business, Land Design Associates, for a number of years, before taking on a range of positions at Hardigg Industries, now Pelican Corporation in Deerfield, MA.

In addition to his immediate family, Robert leaves behind many nieces, nephews, in-laws, and friends who fondly remember and miss him. He loved staying connected to his many Kuzmeskus aunts, uncles, and cousins, who together share the legacy of many wonderful experiences at his grandparents’ family farm, as well as family get-togethers and jovial holiday parties.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Hawks & Reed on Main Street in Greenfield, Saturday, December 17th from 2:00 to 5:00pm with a service starting at 2:30 pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Robert’s name to the Hospice of the Fisher Home, 1165 North Pleasant St., Amherst, MA 01002 or online at Hospice@fisherhome.org

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