Robert Ralph Hackett
Williston, Vermont

Robert Ralph Hackett of Williston, Vermont, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, surrounded by his beloved wife and daughter.

Born on January 12, 1945, in Lebanon, New Hampshire, to Kenneth Ernest and Elsie Mae (Rose) Hackett, Robert was raised in White River Junction, Vermont. As a child, he once believed snow was naturally black, a whimsical notion formed from the soot-filled winters of his youth near coal-fired steam engines.

Robert was a dynamic and accomplished individual even in his early years. A dedicated student, he attended Sunday school at his church with perfect attendance and played football, basketball, and competed in track and field at Hartford High School. He also displayed a deep commitment to his community, joining the Hartford Fire Department at just 16 years old, inspired by the example of his father and brother. Known for his sense of duty, Robert would often leave class to respond to fire calls, embodying a spirit of service that defined his life.

After graduating from Hartford High School in 1963, Robert enlisted in the United States Air Force. He completed basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, and served with distinction as a radar technician. In 1966, Robert was stationed at Cam Ranh Bay in Vietnam, where he repaired radars on fighter jets to keep them operational. He was also stationed at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa, Florida, and airbases in New Mexico and Colorado. While stationed in New Mexico, Robert enjoyed sliding down the dunes at White Sands National Park. During his R&R in Vietnam, he explored Bangkok and marveled at the people living on the river. He was honorably discharged in 1967, ever proud of his military service and love for his country.

Eager to further his education, Robert earned an associate's degree in electrical engineering from Vermont Technical College in 1969, graduating with highest honors. His remarkable intellect earned him recognition as the Student Engineering Technician of the Year during National Engineer's Week in 1969. A natural leader, he also served on the Winter Carnival committee and was recruited by Bell Labs, launching a prestigious career in technology.

Robert's professional journey was distinguished by innovation and leadership. He began his career at Bell Labs, subsequently contributing his expertise at Integrated Network Company, Cisco Systems, Maxcom Technologies, Inc., and Narad Networks, where he retired in 2002 as Vice President of Information Technology. He was instrumental in the advancement of cutting-edge telecommunications technologies, earning a patent in 1989 for a digital data communications terminal and modules.

In addition to his professional achievements, Robert joined the Hudson Fire Department in 1972, where he worked his way up the ranks and retired as Deputy Chief in 1985 to relocate to New Jersey. He was instrumental in instituting the department's computer system in the early 1980s, providing ongoing support for many years even after retirement.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Robert was a devoted genealogist. Inspired by his great-aunt Hazel Mary (Hackett) Flanders, he dedicated himself to preserving family history. He shared this passion with his daughter, Emily. A pioneer in integrating technology into genealogy, Robert embraced computers in the 1980s to create pedigree charts and later utilized DNA evidence to expand his family tree. During a family vacation to Salt Lake City and Denver, he visited the Family History Library to further his research, delighting in connecting with newfound cousins.

In October 1965, Robert met the love of his life, Helen Louise Salls, at a square dance. They married on January 12, 1967—his 22nd birthday—beginning a partnership of almost 58 years rooted in devotion and joy. Together, they raised their daughter, Emily, and created lasting memories, including family vacations to Walt Disney World. Robert's favorite resort was the Polynesian, and he especially cherished riding the Tower of Terror and spinning on the teacups with Emily, their laughter a testament to his love for his family.

Robert is survived by his wife, Helen; his daughter, Emily Hazel Hackett-Fiske of Williston and Loudon, New Hampshire; and his son-in-law, Jason Scott Fiske of Loudon. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren: Leah Hana, Noah Robert, Avah Rose, Caleb James, and Michael Ellis. He was predeceased by his beloved grandson, Ryan Ji-seong Fortin, in 2020.

Robert's family legacy includes his younger sister, Alicia Dionne of Baltimore, Maryland; and his sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: Barbara (Leon) Salls of Randolph, Hiram "Isaac" (Edwina) Salls of Randolph, Doreen Salls of Barre, Jessie (Mitch) Montague of Sharon, Julie (Dave) Tabor of Randolph, numerous nieces and nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews. He was predeceased by his brother and sister-in-law, Kenneth and Adeline Hackett; his mother-in-law, Freda Salls; his brothers-in-law, Duane Salls, Dean Salls, Gordon Salls, and Bill Dionne; his sister-in-law, Madeine Rice; his nephew, Jeff Dionne; and many other lifelong friends, including his best friend of 52 years, Mike Pillarella.

A man of integrity, intelligence, and compassion, Robert enjoyed life's simple pleasures, from spicy food to his favorite film, The American President. He adored his family, treasured his grandchildren, and took immense pride in his daughter, whom he loved to spoil.

Calling hours will be held at Knight Funeral Home in White River Junction, Vermont, on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at 2:00 PM, followed by a service at 3:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Robert's memory may be made to the Hudson Firefighters Relief Association, to honor his enduring dedication and friendship.

Robert will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend; a brilliant mind; and a man whose legacy of love and service will endure for generations.