Robert J Meier

August 27, 1930 – December 16, 2024

Robert "Bob" John Meier, 94, of Spring Hill, Florida, passed away peacefully on December 16, 2024. Born August 27, 1930, in Goshen, NY, to Florence and John Meier, Bob was raised in Montgomery, NY, by his beloved grandmother Hannah Conroy.

Growing up in Montgomery, Bob embraced small-town life with a mischievous charm and an adventurous spirit. As a young boy, he worked odd jobs to help support his family. At just 13 years old, he bartended at the local bar because many of the town's men had left to serve in World War II. Bob loved sharing stories of his boyhood antics—jumping off the bridge into the Wallkill River, swinging on ropes, and gallivanting around town, earning him the reputation of a true Huck Finn of Montgomery.

Bob graduated from Montgomery High School and enlisted in the Army shortly after. A proud veteran of foreign wars, Bob served his country with honor during the Korean War from 1951 to 1953.

After returning home, Bob worked various jobs, including driving a school bus—a role that changed his life forever. On his bus route, he met Barbara, the love of his life. As the story goes, Bob pretended his bus broke down in front of her house just to meet her. This clever move sparked a love that lasted over 70 years.

Bob and Barbara married and built a beautiful life together, raising their four sons. Bob worked tirelessly to provide for his family, starting as a truck driver delivering coal, milk, and lumber before finding his calling with Hershey Ice Cream. Known for his loyalty and dedication, Bob was offered a distributorship and founded Herco Distribution Company in Middletown, NY, in 1965. For 23 years, Bob grew the business before selling it to his sons, Mike and Kenny, in 1988.

That same year, Bob and Barbara retired to Spring Hill, Florida, where they spent 35 joyful years. They immersed themselves in their community, competing in square dance competitions, running the local ping pong club, and traveling across the United States. Bob’s passion for ping pong led to statewide competitions, where his love for the sport shone.

Bob cherished his family above all else. Summers in Florida were a highlight for his grandchildren, who recall treasured memories of theme parks, rollercoasters (or “rolley-coasters,” as he spoke of them to his grandchildren), steak dinners, and the best poached eggs for breakfast. Bob’s love of storytelling and his warm, generous spirit left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Bob was also an avid coin collector, dedicated to filling his coin books and sharing his hobby with loved ones. He loved the Midwest, long road trips with Barbara, and their antiquing adventures. He often said that Barbara’s wish was his command, and together they created a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories.

Bob is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara, who passed on October 14, 2023, after 70 years of marriage. He is survived by his four sons, Robert Meier, Jr., Michael (Cathy) Meier, Kenneth (Paula) Meier, and Terrence (Stephanie) Meier; ten grandchildren, Adrienne, Becca, Adam, Casey, Erin, Marshall, Kyle, Kristen, Truett, and Sloan; and three great-grandchildren, Ayla, Zayn, and Calleigh.

Bob’s warmth, humor, and love will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, a loving grandfather, a friend to all, and a proud veteran who served his country with honor. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, kindness, and the simple joy of sharing a good story.

Bob’s family will have a graveside funeral service on Monday, December 23rd, at Turner Funeral Home in Spring Hill, FL.

“Hello, there,” Bob would often say, and though he is no longer with us, his stories, love, and gentle presence will remain in our hearts forever.