Tichane, Ph.D, RobertA member of the Greatest Generation has passed. Dr. Robert Tichane, age 91, long time resident of Painted Post, died on Thursday, February 9, 2017 at home. He was born on February 23, 1925 in Hawthorne, New Jersey, the son of Leon Abel and Geneva (Weatherwax) Tichane.As a teenager, he enlisted in the famed 10th Mountain Division ski troops and fought in World War II in the northern hills of Italy. After a number of harrowing combat experiences, he won the bronze star. He also was awarded the nation's highest military honor, the Purple Heart. Upon earning a Ph.D. in chemistry, he worked for many years at Sullivan Park for Corning, Inc. where he became an expert in electron microscopy. After he retired from Corning, when a trial attorney suggested that he become an expert witness on electron microscopy, he demurred, saying that despite his years of experience, he did not think he was yet qualified. He always demanded excellence in himself and those around him, particularly his family. After he retired from Corning, he pursued his passion for scientific research and writing, studying the art and science of reproducing ancient Chinese pottery glazes. He was awarded a National Science Foundation grant to travel to China where he studied and consulted with Chinese experts and scientists.Eventually, Dr. Tichane published 6 well received books. Five related to reproducing the colors of ancient Chinese glazes whose formulas had been lost. These books became standard texts in art classes around the world. A sixth book, which he was proud of, was a cookbook for husbands of working wives. "I love to eat and Margene is never home so I had to learn to cook."Dr. Tichane, having lived in Painted Post for nearly 60 years, was well known to regular readers of the Leader. He was noted for colorful letters to the editor as well as articles he wrote for the paper. Dr. Tichane also was a local philanthropist. He personally made major contributions to the CareFirst hospice in Painted Post in honor of his wife, Dr. Margene Tichane, as well as contributions to Alfred University, Corning Community College, the Salvation Army, and the United Way. In the wake of the Korean War, he helped support Korean orphans.Dr. Tichane's three children, graduates of West High School, all received graduate school degrees. His eldest son, Robert, was a fine artist and noted expert in art conservation and restoration. His middle child became a patent attorney. And his youngest, a daughter, earned her graduate degree in public administration and became a Silicon Valley entrepreneur. His grandchildren, except one who is currently 16, also all earned graduate school degrees.He is survived by his wife of nearly 70 years, Margene Tichane, son, David Tichane of Fair Oaks, CA, daughter, Eileen (Arvind Saklikar) Tichane of Sunnyvale, CA, grandchildren, Alexander Tichane of Brooklyn, NY, Rachel (Jonathan Zalepa) Tichane of Wayne, Pa., and Chad Tichane of Fair Oaks, CA, three great grandchildren, and two nephews. Bob was predeceased by his son, Robert Myron Tichane, Jr. and his sister, Rusla Breyer.It was Bob's wish that there be no calling hours. A private funeral and military honor service will be held at the convenience of the family. Burial will take place at Fairview Cemetery.In lieu of flowers, those wishing may make donations in Bob's name to Care First, 3805 Meads Creek Road, Painted Post, NY or the Fingerlakes Humane Society, 7315 State Route 54, Bath, NY 14810.To leave kind words or to share a memory, please visit www.CarpentersFuneralHome.com.