Montgomery County is mourning the death of retired Deputy Sheriff Robert “Bobby” VanAlstyne.

VanAlstyne served the citizens of Montgomery County from 1985 to 2001, according a Facebook post from the department. He earned the Life Saving Award in 1995.

VanAlstyne was a beloved figure for his “friendly smile and compassionate nature,” the department said.

He was also a fixture at Fonda-Fultonville sporting events and the Fonda Fair, and he was a trusted presence at Amsterdam High School.