Robert “Bob” Probst
October 26 1951 – May 28th 2026 (75 years old)
With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life well lived, we share that Bob’s life gracefully concluded on Thursday, May 28 after losing his 15+ year battle with Parkinsons.
Bob was, above all else, a man of joy, laughter, and heart. A fun-loving, silly jokester of a father and grandpa, he found his greatest happiness in making others smile—especially his family. He was never happier than when he was out on the water in one of his classic Glastron jet boats, fishing with his son and grandkids off the dock, or turning the backyard into a wiffle ball stadium filled with laughter, friendly competition and a little dance while he’s pitching.
Bob enjoyed life fully. He loved playing tennis, working in his shop on his boats or GTO, traveling the world for decades through his work to wonderful places like Malaysia, Mongolia, UAE, Singapore, Taiwan, Australia and China to visit friends, and sharing countless dinners out with his grandchildren—always making sure there was room for dessert (preferably cheesecake)and a story or two. One of his favorite running jokes to his grandchildren was to “Stop eating the Jays,” and his favorite advice for living was delivered with a grin: “Drive fast, take chances.”
Generosity defined Grandpa Bob. Whether it was leaving an unforgettable tip for a waitress or quietly helping someone who was down on their luck, Bob gave without needing recognition. His kindness was steady, sincere, and often delightfully anonymous.
Bob was preceded in death by his beloved infant son, Jeffery; his sister, Mary Ellen Dennis; his parents, Bob & Joyce; and two very special furry boating and fishing companions, Boss and Tug, who were surely waiting dockside to welcome him home.
Bob leaves behind a family who adored him, his sons, Jeremy (Jennifer) and Eric (Kati); and grandchildren, Kenlyn & Kaiden, who will forever carry his joy and humor in their hearts, two brothers, Jim (Nancy) and Dave (Laurie); many nieces, nephews and countless friends who were lucky enough to share in his stories, adventures, laughter, and loyalty.
Bob’s legacy is one of love, adventure, generosity, and laughter that will echo for generations. His family finds peace in knowing that, for him, the water is calm, the jetboat is loud, he’s listening to some “Belinda baby!”, Boss (his favorite black lab boat dog) is at his side once again—and that somewhere, Bob is smiling…..and probably shooting a rooster tail out of the back of his boat.
From the bottom of our hearts, we thank the incredible caregivers who walked alongside Bob in recent years. You became more than caregivers — you became trusted friends to him and true support to our family. Your patience, kindness, laughter, and genuine love for us all was a blessing. We will forever be grateful for the care, dignity and friendship you gave to our family and Bob.
Rest in peace…