Arkport, New York

Vernon Robert “Bob” Learn – age 83, of Burns Rd in Arkport, passed peacefully at home with his loved ones at his side on March 10, 2026.

Born in Corning NY on January 14, 1943, he was the son of Clayton and Ethel (Hill) Learn.

Bob grew up in the Jasper and Woodhull area.  He attended the Northrup one-room schoolhouse before going to Jasper Central at 10 years old.  He left home at the age of 14 to work on an area farm.

He enlisted in the US Navy at the age of 17 and proudly served his country from 1960-1964. Upon his honorable discharge from the Navy, Bob was employed at Foster Wheeler Corporation in Dansville before joining the Carpenters Union where he worked for over 30 years in the Rochester area.

In 2000, he opened Bob’s Automotive of Arkport to pursue his love of mechanics before officially retiring in 2010.

Bob enjoyed restoring and the trade of classic cars and had a love for motorcycles.  He could be found tinkering in his shop, reading history books, and listening to blues.  He was known for always offering a helping hand to friends and neighbors.

Bob adored his family, and leaves behind his loving wife and companion, Mitzie (Wyant) Learn of almost 50 years.  Also surviving are his beloved children, daughters April of Corning and Rita of Jasper; 3 sons, Conred Learn & Jonathan, both of Altoona, PA and Kevin of Maryland; as well as his sister, Audrey Lowery of Colorado; 10 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; and several nieces & nephews who all adored him!

In addition to his parents, Bob was predeceased by his siblings, Edith, Janice, Eileen, David, Richard and Gerome.

To honor Bob’s wishes, there will be no calling hours or public services.  In his honor, we ask instead of donations, that you pay it forward, do a good deed, and be a good person. Tomorrow is not promised.

Arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral home, 38 Church St., Hornell NY.

To leave online condolences or share a memory, please visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.