Robert James Poland

Robert (Bob) James Poland II, 58, beloved husband of Bill Elliott, died peacefully on January 16, 2017, at home in Wilton Manors, Florida. He was born in Weymouth, Massachusetts, the son of Robert J. Poland Sr. and Jayne Blair Poland, and resided in Boston until he was 8 years old when the family moved to Silver Creek, NY.

He graduated from Silver Creek Central School and attended the University of Buffalo. He was much loved by his 3 sisters, Dianne Gullotta of Estero FL, Barbara Berry of North Yarmouth ME, and Robin Gelbwachs of Milford MA. They fondly remember his impish nature and his free spirit.

Upon returning to Boston, he was employed by Mass General Hospital and Faulkner Hospital for several years. His passion for travel led him to Fort Lauderdale and a career in the travel industry. He held several positions at Certified Vacations and became National Account Director. He was an officer of the New England chapter of the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) and a board member of the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association (IGLTA). Eventually he started a travel consultancy, Don’t Go There Travel Advisors, and was one of the pioneers in home-based travel agencies.

In addition to his husband and sisters, he is survived by his sister-in-law, Susan Crowder of Hartsville SC, his brothers-in-law, Joe, David, and Archie, and two generations of adoring nieces and nephews who loved their Unc.

Arrangements are being handled by Kraeer-Fairchild Funeral Home of Fort Lauderdale and a celebration of his life will be held at sea at a future date.