Monroe, NH – Robert Harley Simblest, 91, was born at Forest Hills Hospital, Boston, MA, on July 28, 1926, the son of Margaret (Butson) Simblest and Samuel Simblest, and departed this earth on Monday, July 23, 2018.

Mr. Simblest grew up in a number of different cities and towns, among which were Miami, FL, Manchester, NH, and Brooklyn, NY.  After graduating high school he joined the military during World War II and saw considerable military action in the Pacific theater of operations.  He was particularly proud that he held combat stars for both Iwo Jima and Okinawa in the final battles to defeat Japan.  Bob was an unabashed patriot and loved his country very much.  He returned to civilian life in late 1945/1946 and commenced college life.  After graduation, he worked for a period of time as a sales representative for the text book company J.C. Winston.  After this stint, he went to work for St. Johnsbury Trucking Company, commencing in 1951 and retiring in January 1, 1984.  Mr. Simblest was the first director of rating and coding and assistant general office manager.  He enjoyed this part of his life.

In April 1984 he married Carol Boland Simblest, and acquired two step children through this union, Deborah Moore of Lyndonville, VT, who predeceased him on April 2, 2007. and Gregory Boland and wife Cindy of Hudson, MA, along with grandchildren Matthew Hill and wife Amanda of Lyndonville, Brian Boland and Alicia Boland both of Hudson, MA.

Bob and Carol wintered in Fruitland Park, FL, from 1985 to 2005. They enjoyed this time very much and it enabled Carol to pursue her antique business which she enjoyed and was quite proficient at.  During his lifetime, Bob's one great hobby was fishing, particularly fly fishing.  Every spring or summer Bob and his best fishing partner, Dr. Robert McCauley, managed to fish a new Quebec or Labrador area and these vacation were always the best.  Bob was very active in the Vermont Chamber of Commerce and   served as President of this august body in 1977-1978.  He was also a 32 degree mason and was a Shriner, belonging to Mt. Sinai Shriners, Montpelier, VT.  His Blue Lodge affiliation was Pulaski Lodge # 58 F&AM of Wells River, VT.  Bob had a keen and inquisitive mind and a good sense of humor.  He often proved to be a loyal friend.

Private burial services will be observed in the Monroe Village Cemetery.