Below is an obituary from Nichols Funeral Home:
WILMINGTON, MA — Robert Ellis Blackburn “Bob”, 81, of DeBary, Florida, formerly of Wilmington, MA, passed away on June 26, 2025, at Lake Mary Hospital after a period of illness. He was surrounded by his loving family during his final days.
Born on April 17, 1944, in Melrose, Massachusetts, to the late Albert and Gertrude (Ellis) Blackburn, Bob was cherished by all who knew him. His warmth, quiet strength, and dry sense of humor left an impression wherever he went.
Bob is survived by his wife, Marion Peck. Father to four children from previous marriages; Lauren Reeners (Greg), Ashley Thrasher (Shawn), Robert Ellis Blackburn Jr., and Katie Grega (Dan); as well as his stepson, Matt Boden (Debbie). He was a proud and devoted “Pappi” to ten grandchildren, who brought him endless joy and pride.
A proud veteran, Bob served in the Army National Guard for six years. His patriotism only grew stronger with time, and he loved his country deeply.
Bob began his career at IBM in the mailroom and, through hard work and integrity, rose to a management role over a 30-year tenure. He earned multiple service awards and lived in several states along the way—including Massachusetts, Virginia, Tennessee, and Rhode Island—before settling in Florida, the place he called home.
Genealogy was one of Bob’s great passions. He delighted in tracing family roots, carefully preserving heirlooms and antiques that told stories of generations past. He loved a good meal, thoughtful conversation, and never shied away from a lively political debate. A natural listener, Bob had a special way of making people feel heard and valued. He reached out often, making and keeping meaningful connections throughout his life.
An enthusiastic sportsman, Bob was inducted into the Wilmington High School Hall of Fame for baseball in his 70s. His love of the sport brought about his desire to be an assistant coach to his kids as well. He was also best known as the ultimate judge of pool backflips. He found joy in playing tennis, gardening, nurturing fruit trees, and perfecting his yard’s landscaping. Faith was important to Bob—he served as lay leader at the Congregational Church of Boca Raton for eight years, leading with humility and compassion.
He is preceded in death by his brothers, Jay and David Blackburn. He is also deeply mourned by his lifelong friend, Don Blackadar, with whom he shared a remarkable bond since infancy.
Bob had a big heart—for family, friends, and all those who shared in his life. A lifelong Elvis Presley fan, his favorite rendition of “My Way” fittingly captured the spirit in which he lived: honest, proud, and uniquely himself.
There are no words to express how deeply he will be missed by those who loved him.
Funeral services for Bob will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Semper Fi and America’s Fund at www.thefund.org.
To leave a message of condolence for the family please visit Nichols Funeral Home website at www.nicholsfuneralhome.com.
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