May 31, 1924—Nov. 4, 2009

Robert G. Hughes, retired head timekeeper for Bell Aerospace in Wheatfield, died Wednesday in ElderWood Health Care at Oakwood, Amherst, after a lengthy illness. He was 85.

The Buffalo native, one of 11 children, served in the Army’s 78th Infantry Division during World War II and was decorated for his service, which included combat in Normandy.

Mr. Hughes went to work for Bell Aerospace following the war and rose to the post of head timekeeper. He retired in 1987 after 35 years.

Survivors include his wife of 61 years, the former Muriel Mischel; four daughters, Kathleen Brem, Maureen Padegomis, Barbara Zuffoletto and Denice McCarthy; a son, Robert Jr.; two sisters, Alice Hansel and Elizabeth Wilcox; and two brothers, Frederick and Peter.

A memorial Mass will be offered at 11 a. m. Saturday in Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 263 Claremont Ave., Town of Tonawanda.