Robert Francis “Bob” Garrison, Sr.
October 7, 1945 - April 15, 2026
Robert Francis “Bob” Garrison Sr., age 80, of Newark, DE, passed away on Wednesday, April 15, 2026.
Born in Philadelphia, PA on October 7, 1945, he was a son of the late Herman K. and Lois B. (Hunter) Garrison. Bob was a graduate of Olney High School in Philadelphia, PA and attended Delaware Technical and Community College. He began his career in management at F.W. Woolworth Co. and later at Kiddie World. Bob then changed careers and worked for Wiley Manufacturing in Port Deposit, MD, where he helped to build the forms for the Fort McHenry Tunnel. When Wiley’s closed, he began working at the University of Delaware in several of their departments, retiring after 28 years of service.
Bob enjoyed spending countless hours working with his Lionel Trains. He had a passion for cars and loved visiting car shows. Bob could often be found watching the Philadelphia Phillies and Eagles.
In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by his daughter-in-law, Margie Garrison; and great-granddaughter, Sadie Garrison. He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Ellen Lorraine (Setziol) Garrison; sons, Robert Garrison Jr. and James Garrison; grandchildren, Joshua Garrison, Zachary Garrison, Tiffany Garrison and Robbie Garrison; and great-grandchildren, Ryder, Zoë, Zaniyah, and Jackson. He is also survived by his brother, Ronald and his wife, Kathleen; nephew, Ronald (Linda) and their children; and nephew, Michael.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 10 am until 11 am on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 121 West Park Place, Newark, DE, where a funeral service will begin at 11 am. Interment will follow in Gracelawn Memorial Park, 2220 North DuPont Highway, New Castle, DE.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bob’s memory to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 701 South College Avenue, Newark, DE 19713.
Kristine & Richard Cassar
Dear Ellen and family,
Rick and are beyond saddened about Bob’s passing. He was on of the kindest and gentlest men we knew, always ready with a smile and a good word, and eager to help. He will be sorely missed by everyone who knew and loved him. Please accept our sincerest condolences.
Love,
Kris and Rick
Terry Norem
Gonna miss Bob so much. I worked with Bob and became friends with Bob early on. Bob was one of The kindest gentleman I’ve ever know. Enjoyed many moments and car shows with Bob and Ellen. Love both of my friends. God Bless Bob and his family.
Jimmy G. Garrison
Bob is my Dad ❤️ I love and miss him so much already. I say ..is my Dad because he is still here with us in my mind and heart ❤️ and in heaven ❤️ LUV U POP…R.I.P. BUDDY ❤️
Tiffany Garrison
RIP to my one and only poppop! The sweetest man
I miss you so much! I wish god didn’t call you home so soon, but I will forever be grateful for the 26 years of amazing memories! Thank you for loving us unconditionally and fighting for us! I promise I will take care of mommom I love you poppop
Claudean Octive
My sincerest condolences to you and your family at this time. May the Lord keep you , guide you and cover you all through this time.
Mark and Shelly Tolmie
Ellen and family, we were so saddened to hear of the loss of Bob. He was a wonderful neighbor and friend. Keeping you and your family in our prayers. Mark & Shelly Tolmie
Bob & Donna Macheski
Dear Ellen and family,
Donna and I are so sorry to hear about Bob’s passing. I really enjoyed working with Bob and Ellen, volunteering for the FISH program at St. Paul’s. During these times we got to know each other and shared some wonderful life stories. Bob was such an easy-going, kind man who will be sorely missed. Our sincerest condolences to you Ellen and the family. Rest in Peace Bob! May Got bless!
Bob & Donna Macheski
Dear Ellen and family,
Donna and I are so sorry to hear about Bob’s passing. I really enjoyed working with Bob and Ellen, volunteering for the FISH program at St. Paul’s. During these times we got to know each other and shared some wonderful life stories. Bob was such an easy-going, kind man who will be sorely missed. Our sincerest condolences to you Ellen and the family. Rest in Peace Bob! May God bless!
Donna & Ted Hendricks
Ellen and Family,
Ted and I send our deepest condolences of Bob’s passing. What a sweet and generous man he was. He certainly will be missed.
Love,
Donna & Ted
The Bayless Family
Ellen, I’m so terribly sorry for your loss. I always enjoyed seeing you and Bob on your walks around the neighborhood. You both are two of the nicest people my family and I know. It was great waving hello every time we saw each other. It’s nice seeing neighborliness still exists and that’s because of people like you and Bob. I was deeply saddened when I learned of Bobs passing. My family and I are here for you if you need anything. We are just 3 doors down the street.
Joe & Kathy Almondo
Kathy and I worked with Bob for many years at UD. He was always very pleasant friendly and polite to everyone. He was also our neighbor and we would always see him and Ellen out walking in the neighborhood and they would always stop and say hello!
We will miss you Bob but we will never forget you.