Obituaries
Robert J. Gilligan, 88
January 10, 2024
Robert J Gilligan, Lancaster, died peacefully in his home on January 10, 2024. After 88 active years, Bob completed his final chores. He was a tenacious and stubborn, witty and loving Irish gentleman.
He was born in Scranton, Pa, on November 26, 1935, to the late Richard and Agnes Gilligan.
On January 2, 1960, Bob and Anne Pelsynski were married in Scranton and just happily celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary. He was Dad to three children, Papa to six grandkids, and best buddy to four dogs. He spent his summers in Sea Isle City, New Jersey, and winters in Naples, Florida. He enjoyed traveling with family; some of his favorite trips were the Mediterranean cruise, Ireland, Russia, Bermuda, and Cuba. They were lifetime campers and RVers with the Colonial Travelers.
After graduating from Dunmore High School in 1953, Bob began his career at Bell Telephone. He rapidly advanced from mailroom clerk to management, working and living throughout Pennsylvania and New York City. After retirement in 1988, he worked as a real estate appraiser for several years. He was honorably discharged from the US Army in 1964. Through the GI Bill, Bob became a private pilot, flying his family on many adventures. He was a member of the Telephone Pioneers of America, Rotary, and Junior Achievement.
Bob’s interests included: planes, trains, boats, and cars (especially his yellow 1970 convertible VW Beetle), reading, projects, antiquing, Cryptoquip and crosswords, playing cards, being in the sun, chocolate, and his occasional! Bud Light. He was a big sports fan – especially cheering on the Eagles, Penn State, and Notre Dame football teams.
In addition to his parents, Bob was predeceased by his son Robert R. Gilligan in 2003 and his brothers James and Richard. He is survived by his wife Anne Gilligan and their dog BamBam; Daughters, Patricia and Dr. Edward Zurad (Shavertown, PA), Sharon Gilligan (Annapolis, MD); Daughter-in-law Gerianne Muldoon Gilligan (Arlington, VA); Grandchildren Ariel, Noah, Abbey, and Olivia Zurad and Ben and Audrey Gilligan; nieces, nephews, and many lifelong friends.
A viewing will be held at Charles F. Snyder Jr. Funeral Home, 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz, PA 17543 on Sunday, January 14th from 5-7pm. A funeral mass will be held at 12pm on Monday, January 15th at Sts. Peter and Paul Parish, 1309 West Locust Street, Scranton, PA 18504. Private burial will be held at the Cathedral Cemetery, Scranton.
In Lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Humane League of Lancaster County, 2195 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster, Pa, 17602.
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Condolences to the Family
January 20, 2024
Ann, Patty and Sharon,
It is with great sorrow that i learned of Bob’s passing. I am sorry I was unable to travel from FLorida to attend his funeral. My own health issues bar any possiblity of air travel due to the severely compromised imuune system issues as I conitune my chemothery.
I have many fond memeories of your family and Bob’ clam quiet steady demeanor. I am able to keep up with each of your lives via my life time friendship with JOhna dn Shirley. LInda and I see them often here in Punta Gorda.
PLease acccept my heartful condolances for your loss. I pray for God’s healing hand upon each of your hearts during this difficult time.
GARY L GROSSMAN
January 16, 2024
Dear Anne and family,
I am so sorry to hear about Bob. He was always such a kind man who I know will be missed by all. Sending love and prayers to you and your family from Crown Pointe and Lakeport Villas!
Christina Vivalo
January 15, 2024
Anne, we are so sorry for your loss. Susan and I, and our daughters loved Bob. He was so loving and kind, friendly, encouraging and helpful. We will miss the twinkle in his eyes and the smile he had for us everytime we met. What a blessing it has been to us to have you both as neighbors these last 25 years.
May your grief be followed by memories of the love and joy you two shared together, and couched in the love your family and friends have for you. Blessings to you.
Greg and Susan Allison
January 13, 2024
We met Bob through our GMC Colonial Travelers club in 2003 at Sue Frey & Tom Ward’s wedding. We enjoyed throughout the years his video of their wedding reception. Bob was always ready for our breakfast potlucks with his awesome potato concoction. We will remember Bob for his gentleness and devotion to his family including beloved Bailey. Our deepest sympathy to Anne, the Gilligan & Zurad f
amilies. Fred, Peggy & Audrey Regehly
January 13, 2024
Condolences and Prayers for Bob and his family
the Jose Family
January 13, 2024
Bob had a full life and loved his family dearly. It was a pleasure to be in his company – an Irish gentleman indeed with a warm and quick wit. As one of Sharon’s friends, he and Anne welcomed me into their home. Our families have become friends with Bob, Anne, Shirley and John spending many good times together. My condolences to the whole family and may his memory be a blessing to all who loved him.
Jody Hoffer Gittell
January 12, 2024
So sorry for the loss of your husband, father and grandfather. Mr. Gilligan was always so witty and gave you his undivided attention when conversing with you! He will be greatly missed by many!! Glenda Dornes
- Visitation
- Sunday, January 14, 2024
- 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
- Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory
- 3110 Lititz Pike
- Lititz, PA 17543
- Map and Directions
-
Get Maps and Directions > - Services
- Monday, January 15, 2024
- 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
- Sts. Peter & Paul Parish
- 1309 W. Locust St.
- Scranton, PA 18566
- Map and Directions
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