Robert A. Cilette

Middletown, RI - Robert A. Cilette, 84 years old, a long term resident of Middletown and Newport, RI died Monday, October 24, 2011 at Newport Hospital.Born July 9, 1927, in New Rochelle, NY, he leaves three daughters, Robin Murdock and her husband Ron of Portsmouth, Kimber Gibson and her husband Tom of Ridgewood, NJ, and Wynne Smith of Greeneville, SC, as well as five grandchildren and a great grandson.Bob was a cardiac field sales representative in the NY Tristate area for a number of years, prior to moving to Rhode Island in 1977 and becoming the co-proprietor of The Chocolate Soldier candy store in Newports Brick Market Place, until its closing.An avid hiker, sailor and cyclist, Bob, in his later years became a dedicated member of the Narragansett Chapter of the Appalachian Mountain Club, from which he received both the Appie of the year award in 1996, as well as the prestigious Golden Appie award in 2009. His various hobbies included being an amateur ham radio operator, playing bridge at the Edward King House Center, and taking his daily hikes along the beach. He was a regular participant as well at his fellow friends Round Table Friday night gatherings at Johnnys Atlantic Beach club, and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. The family would like to thank all of the staff at Blenheim - Newport for their kindness and quality of care, which was given to Bob through out his stay there. Their ongoing dedication and compassion helped to make his final days both comfortable and enjoyable as well.His family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Bobs memory be made to Blenheim-Newport Employee Fund, 303 Valley Road, Middletown, RI 02842.A private memorial service will be held for family members only.