A message from Dick Bright of Corning, NY

While recently attending a visitation for Bob Rockwell at the funeral home I was talking to Bobbie and Sandra and Dick Pope owner of The Glass Menagerie a close personal friend of Bob.

Dick Pope had said in an article in the Corning Leader Bob Rockwell was more than just a collector of art. Two years ago, Rockwell did something to help local residents who were struggling,

“Once you are 95 years old, veterans receive their life insurance sent to them,” Pope said. “Bob received a large check in the mail. Bob decided he wanted to help those in need of assistance.” That led to the creation of the Stone Water Fund, they chose that name to protect Bob’s anonymity, Rock is a stone and a well produced water.

“The funds were parceled to cancer patients, people who lost their homes to a fire or suffered from other unforeseen problems,” Pope said. “It started about 15 months ago, he wanted it to be anonymous, but I think people should know how caring he is.” Pope said Rockwell was one of the most generous people he has even known.

“In addition to donating to numerous organizations over the years, he helped hundreds of individuals who needed some financial assistance and could benefit from a spirit-booster from an anonymous donor,” Pope said.

When I mentioned that some members of the Carder Steuben Collectors Club would like to make a donation to somehow recognize Bob Rockwell, the man, I suggested donations could be sent to the Stone Water Fund.

Bobbie Rockwell, Sandra Heron (his children) and Dick Pope agreed that to continue the Stone Water Fund would be an excellent way to do this. Since anonymity was no longer an issue this led to forming the “Bob Rockwell Memorial Fund” a nonprofit organization to continue to help people in need.

Bob Rockwell, the man, helped all of us in many ways. This is an opportunity to perpetuate his name and continue his generosity by making a tax-exempt donation to the Bob Rockwell Memorial Fund. Checks can be sent to The Bob Rockwell Memorial Fund, 37 East Market Street, Corning, NY 14830.