Father of resident, clinical psychologist
Robert Edward Haines, 87, of Princeton, died Friday morning, Sept. 17, 2021, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Worcester on June 5, 1934, to Paul and Alice (Pearson) Haines.
Robert attended Classical High in Worcester and graduated from Rutland High School. He received a bachelor’s degree from Syracuse University and a doctorate from Clayton University under the auspices of Columbia University and Brooklyn College.
Robert initially taught science and math at the high school level and then changed professions to applied psychology. He worked in the Massachusetts state hospital system as a clinical psychologist. He later was the director for the rehabilitation program at Rutland Heights Hospital. He lectured in applied hypnotherapy at several colleges and hospital pain clinics, including Brigham and Women’s Hospital and UMass Medical Center.
Dr. Haines practiced privately in Worcester for more than 20 years, focusing on clinical hypnotherapy.
As a young man, Robert served in the military as a medic specializing in psychiatric and abnormal diagnosis. He received a Good Conduct Medal for his military service.
Robert enjoyed being outdoors and was a former president of the Paxton Riding Club. He moved to Princeton in 1964 with his beloved wife Edna, two dogs, and his American Saddlebred horse, Danny. Five children rounded out the family.
Robert loved his family and believed that country living was the best way to grow up. Cows, horses, dogs, and cats were part of the lifestyle, as was gardening and growing flowers. Robert spent many hours rehabilitating the antique home he and Edna had purchased. The children participated at all levels, learning many skills from their parents. In recent years, Robert, Edna, and his family have been restoring the Haines homestead, circa 1767, in Saco, Maine.
Robert leaves his wife of 58 years, Edna (Estey) Haines. He also leaves five children and their spouses: Grace and Jack Miller of Harvard; Sarah and Amin Harbeh of Worcester; Faith and Alex Kolb of Franklin; Robert and Holly Haines of Rutland; and Steven and Pamela Haines of Hubbardston. Robert had 12 grandchildren, of whom he was very proud and loved very much: Laith Harbeh; Benjamin, Timothy, and Lillian Kolb; Evan and Bryce Haines; Hayley and Hannah Haines; and Marjorie, Rebecca, and Robin Miller.
He was predeceased by his sister, Lois (Haines) Brown of Lenox and brother Paul M. Haines of Rutland, as well as a grandson, Charles Miller of Wellesley.
He was buried Sept. 22, with military honors at Woodlawn Cemetery in Princeton. Donations in his memory may be made to the Congregational Church of Harvard or Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry.
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