Community Says Goodbye To Beloved Teacher Robert Foster

Robert Foster was a man who inspired students to be their best, and has left a lasting impression on both the people he has met throughout his life.

The Milford social studies teacher was an avid outdoorsman, and died unexpectedly on Sunday, Sept. 23 while hiking on Pack Monadnock in Temple, N.H. Police are still investigating the cause of his death.

A memorial service with military honors will be held on Friday at 10 a.m. in the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Milford. The Milford Middle School will be closed to honor the memory of this longtime community member.

The news of his passing shocked students, parents and the entire school community. A Facebook page called R.I.P Robert Foster Social Studies teacher was created in his honor to reflect on his role in their lives.

Here is what they had to say about the late Robert Foster:

“R.I.P. Mr. Foster you will be missed you were my favorite teacher in school. You always knew I could do something if I put my head into it.” - Trina Noiles

“‎'Your I-WILL is stronger than your I-Q". A quote of Mr Foster's that, on a daily basis, will encourage Ryan to work hard for the many things he deserves... Thank you Mr Foster for supporting and inspiring our children, you're already missed...” - Courtney Gagnon

The friends and family he left behind will remember him for not only his love for his students, but also for the good humor he brought to the classroom.

“One thing that I loved about Mr. Foster is sometimes when I was in Mr. Erdody's english class, he would open the door that connects the two rooms and say something so random and funny that would make everyone in my class laugh. I miss that,” - Kathryn Trecartin.

In fact, students created a list of their favorite quotes from the social studies teacher and drivers education instructor, which truly show his fun sense of humor.

• "You can write all over your pants but you can't write your paper?"
• "I'm hotter than Justin Bieber!"
• "Keep yourself out of jail."
• "Now you all go and take a long walk of a short pier."
• "There is not one thing i won’t support you with, unless that thing is stupid then I'm gonna talk you out of it."
• "This car doesn’t have a brain you're the one who has the brain and can control this."

Foster was a U.S. Army veteran who earned medals including the Gallantry Cross, Purple Heart, Air Medal with 24 Oak Leaf Clusters and the Distinguished Flying Cross. He was honorably discharged in 1968 with the rank of Captain.

Learn more about Robert Foster’s life in his obituary.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project at www.woundedwarriorproject.org. Arrangements are in the care of Smith & Heald Funeral Home, Milford. 

To leave an online condolence, please go to www.smith-heald.com.