Robin Sykes Grumman

Robin Alice Sykes Grumman passed away on Feb. 2, 2022. Robin resided at Sullivan County Healthcare in Claremont for the past few years after a period of declining health.

Robin was predeceased by her husband, Eugene Grumman; her parents, Frank and Helen Sykes; and granddaughter Mabel Emmiah Eron Root. Surviving family members include her sons, Jonathan (Leigh Ann) Root, Justen Root and Nathan (Yesenia) Root; grandchildren, Parker Root, Joleigh Root, Emily Root, Miah Schiavi, Eric Schiavi, Colton Schiavi and Emma Root; two brothers, Gary (Linda) Sykes and Greg (Elizabeth) Sykes; several cousins, nieces and one nephew.

Robin was born in Lowell, Massachusetts, on April 18, 1950, along with her twin brother, Greg. She attended schools in Lowell, Massachusetts, Barrington, Rhode Island, and later graduated from Daniel Hand High School in Madison, Connecticut, in 1968. She attended Keene State College where she met her first husband and father of her children, Gregory Root. After graduation, they began their teaching careers in Claremont, New Hampshire. All three of their sons were born in Claremont. In 1987, Robin married her forever love, Eugene Grumman, also an educator. Together, they built a life of community service and love of community.

Robin was an exceptional teacher and prided herself in reaching those children who were most challenging. She taught mostly in the Claremont school district with the exception of a couple of years at St. Mary's School, late in her career. It was her time at The Unity Elementary School, as both a teacher and a principal, that captivated her teaching heart. Over many decades, she volunteered at The First Congregational Church in Claremont, the City of Claremont (as town moderator), Unity Fire Department (delivering weekly meals for years) and the Methodist Church in Unity.

Robin was an avid gardener and extraordinary designer of her home. She was reimagining furniture and repurposing items long before it became popular. She had an artist flair that showed in all that she did: parenting, grandparenting, landscaping, decorating, entertaining, writing, gift-giving and teaching. She was a thoughtful and warm person whose support and encouragement were deeply felt by those she loved. Robin had a spunk that was second to none. She was a fierce defender of what she thought was right and courageously fought for causes close to her heart. Her caring for others and their betterment was apparent in all areas of her life; family, teaching and community.

Robin was a proud mother and grandmother; her biggest accomplishment was the raising of her family. Her bond with her granddaughter, Emily, was especially beautiful to witness. She was a loving daughter to her parents and carried memories of them throughout her entire life. She was an exquisite storyteller who never missed a detail. Her ability to connect with people and her sense of humor made her both fun and easy to be around. She was best known for her toughness and edgy nature, she was unapologetically herself, always.

A burial and celebration of life will be held on May 7th in Lowell, Massachusetts.