Robert Rowley Ayers, 86, of Ithaca passed away on August 27, 2017 at Oak Hill Manor. He was born on November 4, 1930, the son of the late Herbert L. and Esther Rowley Ayers.
He graduated Massena High School; following graduation he attended Cornell University for a year before he enlisted in the Army, serving in Germany as part of the 4th Infantry Division during the Korean War. After serving his country he returned to Cornell to study Architecture. He worked for various firms in the Ithaca area, and retired from Fred Thomas Associates. In his free time Robert enjoyed gardening, landscaping, boating and especially spending time with his family.

Robert is predeceased by his wife Carol R. Ayers; his daughter Lael Elizabeth Ayers, his brothers; William Ayers and H. Carl Ayers.

He is survived by his sons; Schuyler (Maureen) Ayers of Cocoa FL, Dana (Claudia) Ayers of Spencer, his daughter; Kirstin Gasteiger of Spencer, his grandchildren; Jessica Bergen, Joshua Bergen, Kelsey Gasteiger and Katie Gasteiger, his great grandchildren; Johnathan Sharpe, Zachery Bergen and Ashley Bergen, his brother; Stephen (Nancy) Ayers, his sisters; Phyllis Nuffer and Mildred (Fred) Davis, his former son-in-law Eric Gasteiger, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations may be made to the SPCA of Tompkins County, 1640 Hanshaw Rd, Ithaca, NY, from which several cherished pets were adopted by Robert & Carol over the years; or to Hospicare and Palliative Care Services, 172 East King Road, Ithaca, NY, which provided a great deal of guidance and support to Robert and to his family.

Obituary information from Perkins Funeral Home