Robert E. Waller

October 6, 2023, Robert E. Waller, 94, of Ocala, FL passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his devoted family. As his last sunset faded, he was ushered to heaven reuniting with his beloved soul mate, Joan Waller.

Bob and Joan married in 1951 and resided in Bucks County, Pennsylvania until moving to Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire in 1977. In 1983, they shared a vision to build a farm in Ocala, Florida, which they called home for 40 years. This idyllic culmination of their vision became the gathering spot for their 6 children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and many dear friends. These visits were formal and informal celebrations of holidays, weddings, birthdays, and babies.

Bob, one of 6 children, was born on May 20, 1929, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He was focused and determined from a young age, overcoming childhood in an orphanage during the depression. His endless curiosity, inquisitiveness, and keen intellect drove all his pursuits, be they business or hobby. Bob started as a construction laborer at 16 years old and went on to found two successful construction businesses in PA and NH. Since moving to Florida, he founded Robert E. Waller Builders, a family construction business, developing valuable and rewarding relationships with customers, subcontractors and employees for over 35 years. He was universally respected as a steadfast man of great loyalty and integrity.

Bob had a passion for the outdoors, gardening, cultivating butterflies with his great-grandchildren, travelling, and an admirable commitment to health and fitness. He was a true patriot with a hard-earned appreciation for the blessings that living in America provided him. His life’s motto was represented by the acronym PPHL: Patriotism, Positive Thinking, Honesty and Loyalty. Bob made the world a little brighter and his passing will leave a void in many lives.

Robert was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Joan M. Waller, and by his son, Kevin J. Waller.

He was a loving father and is survived by his 5 children: Joan (Bob) Gower, Robert Waller (partner, Sharon), Lois (Alan) Morton, Susan (Bruce) Coil, and Donna Sturgeon. PopPop was a treasured grandfather to 10 grandchildren: Crystal (Marc) Surprenant , Justin (Lori) Morton, Megan (Seth) Lawrence, Kelsey (Eric) Fuehrer, Anna (Jake) Sinclair, Ashley (Lemont) Daymon, Lindsey (LP) Steele, Jesse Gower (Fiance, Kelsey), Zachary (Kailin) Morton, and Jeri Waller; and to 12 great-grandchildren: Gabriella, Eliana, Camden, Jackson, Cameron, Theo, Juliette, Rory, Jacob, Parker, Meyer and Tatum.

Bob is also survived by his two sisters: Peg McConnell and Evelyn Rutherford, and his sister-in-law Sue (Kyle) Haver, and numerous other nieces and nephews.

A memorial service has been scheduled for Friday, October 27, 2023 at 2:00 pm at Countryside Funeral Home, 9185 NE 21st Avenue, Anthony, FL