Dr. Robert S. Hirth, 87, of Cazenovia, passed away on Tuesday, Aug. 30, 2022. Born in Tolland, CT on Jan. 29, 1935, he was the son of Harold and Grace Hirth. Dr. Hirth attended Rockville High school in Connecticut where he played all sports and was captain of the football team. He attended the University of Connecticut and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in zoology with high honors. He then attended the University of Illinois and earned a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. Upon graduation he spent two years in the Army as a captain in the veterinary corps at Fort Detrick Biological Laboratory. Upon completion of his military service, he enrolled in post-doctoral pathology at the University of Connecticut. He earned a PhD in veterinary pathology and became a diplomat of the American College of Veterinary Pathologists.
He spent the next 30 years as Director of Pathology at Bristol-Myers in Syracuse. While working at Bristol he discovered a new parasite in dogs that was subsequently named Filaroides Hirthi in his honor.
Dr. Hirth loved the outdoors and enjoyed camping, canoeing, kayaking, skiing, and snowmobiling.
His most prized possession was his 1961 corvette which he bought new and drove for 59 years.
He is predeceased by his wife of 47 years, Jean. He is survived by his son, Todd of Cazenovia; older brother, Harold Hirth of Salt Lake City, Utah and his younger brother, Richard Hirth of Willington, Connecticut.
A graveside service was held at St. James Cemetery, Cazenovia.
Contributions in his memory may be made to Wanders Rest Humane Society, P.O. Box 535, Canastota, New York 13032.
