Obituary of Robert G. Liegel

Robert G. Liegel (Bob), of Skaneateles, NY, passed away peacefully on July 25, 2023, surrounded by his wife and family. His life was characterized by his love for his family, the law, and Skaneateles Lake.

Born July 21, 1933 to Albertina and Joseph Liegel, Bob grew up in Syracuse, NY with his older sister, Jeanette Dayko (deceased), and beloved younger sister, Linda Tindall. He graduated from St. John the Evangelist Academy in 1951 and Syracuse University in 1955.  

He enlisted in the United States Navy, graduated from Officer Candidate School, and deployed to sea duty aboard the USS Monrovia (APA-31) in the Atlantic and Mediterranean. Continuing his naval service as a reservist, he retired with the rank of Commander in 1979 after 23 years of service. 

He graduated from George Washington University law school in 1963 and was admitted to the bar in 1964. His concern for social justice led him to work with Legal Services of Central New York. Together with Bob Failmezger, he formed a long and fruitful law firm partnership. His 58 years practicing law were characterized by integrity and the utmost care for his clients.

Over the years, he applied his legal knowledge to help protect the beauty and health of Skaneateles Lake, in large part through his work with the Skaneateles Lake Association. From racing Finn sailboats to swimming with his family in its crisp, clear waters, Bob cherished Skaneateles Lake and was a passionate advocate dedicated to protecting it for future generations. 

But the most important event in his life occurred on September 30, 1967, when he married his great love, Mary Elizabeth Haenn Liegel. A true and loving partnership, they raised five children: Andrew (Sara), Gregory (Angela), Margaret (Eric), Peter, and Katharine. They were subsequently blessed with five wonderful grandchildren: Lucy, Felix, Henry, Miles, and Laurel. 

Just as his family was the most important thing in the world to him, he was a central axis around which their worlds also turned. He is loved tremendously and will be missed. But he will not be forgotten thanks to the love he shared, the sacrifices he made, the lessons he imparted, and the stories and laughter that celebrate his memory and loving legacy.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 10am on Saturday, August 5th, at St. Mary's of the Lake Church in Skaneateles. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made in Bob’s name to the Skaneateles Lake Association (https://skaneateleslake.org) or World Central Kitchen (https://wck.org/).