BETHEL - Robert Loren Washburn, 85, died Nov. 23, 2008, at the home of his son in Bethel.He was born on Aug. 26, 1923, in Canterbury, N.H., the son of Loren H. and Rose M. (Hill) Washburn.He attended Whitcomb High School until enlisting into the U.S. Army in 1943 during World War II. In 1947, Mr. Washburn married Harriett M. Hurlburt.In Reading, Calif., he worked as an assistant superintendent for Shasta Plywood Co. In Mineville, N.Y., he worked for Republic Steel until the closing of the mines and going to work for the E.C. Henry Co. and taking masonry courses at night. He spent a number of years working as a mason. From 1971 to 1985, he worked for Ballard Engineering Co. as a construction manager, traveling extensively throughout the U.S., Canada and South Africa.Mr. Washburn was a member of the VFW, the Eastern Star in Ticonderoga, N.Y., the Masonic Lodge of Crown Point, N.Y., Knapp Senior Center in Crown Point, and served as a Boy Scout leader for Troop 76. He enjoyed square-dancing, hunting and fishing.Survivors include his son, Melvin Washburn of Bethel, and two grandsons.He was predeceased by his wife and a brother, Carl.The memorial service will be held at a later date in Crown Point, N.Y.Memorial contributions may be made to Knapp Senior Center, Main Street, Crown Point, NY 12928.Arrangements are under the direction of the Cabot Funeral Home in Woodstock.View the guest book at www.rutlandherald.com/obits.