Obituary of Robert Clapp

Robert Clapp, age 69 of Flemington, NJ, died at his home on Sunday, May 4, 2014, surrounded by his family. Born in Manhattan, NY, he was the son of the late Marshall and Lois Clapp. Robert was a resident of Readington Township for 42 years. He was a proud Army Veteran, serving his country honorably during the Vietnam Era by manning Nike-Hercules long-range air defense missile bases around the country. After being honorably discharged from the service, he married the love of his life, Diane Clapp, nee Wagner, in the summer of 1969 (on the same weekend as Woodstock, as he was always quick to point out). He was a brilliant tinkerer and resurrecter of all things mechanical. He was always quick to help family and friends out of a jam when something broke. Fittingly, he worked in copier sales and service and was the owner of Reliable Office Products in Whitehouse Station. Robert served on the Readington Township Historical Preservation Commission helping to restore numerous schools and farms of historic value around the community. He was a long time member of the Stanton Reformed Church. He loved old cars and was an avid reader of Hemmings Motor News. He seemed to know something about every old car he encountered, complete with a story from his life to complement engine, body, or production details. He loved the outdoors, especially fishing and camping. He was never happier than when he was spending time with family and friends at his "little red school house" vacation home outside Cooperstown, NY. In his day-to-day life, he found joy in simple pleasures. He could often be found relaxing outside on the back deck, listening to a small radio, and enjoying the day with his dog. His laid-back approach to life and sense of humor will be missed tremendously. Robert was predeceased by his brother, Marshall Clapp. He is survived by his beloved wife, Diane; his two sons, Christopher Clapp and his wife, Susan, of Tallahassee, FL, and David Clapp and his wife, Heather, of Lambertville; his brother, Graeme Clapp and his wife, Anne Wright, of Easton, MD; and his sister-in-law, Patricia Clapp, of Pompton Plains. A funeral service will be celebrated on Friday, May 9, 2014 at 11:00 AM at the Stanton Reformed Church in Stanton. Friends may visit with the family on Thursday, May 8 from 7:00 - 9:00 PM at the Kearns Funeral Home, 103 Old Highway, Whitehouse, NJ 08888. Burial will be in Newell Cemetery in Stanton. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Readington Starfish by mailing a check to Readington Area Starfish Treasurer; 530 Route 523; Whitehouse Station, NJ 08889.