Smyrna Beach Fl passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Robert William Geel, Sr. resident of Chatham NY and New October 7, 2014 in Florida. Bobby was born and raised in Chatham, NY. Shortly after graduating as Valedictorian from Chatham High School in 1951, he joined the United States Air Force and was stationed at Westover AFB in Massachusetts. After serving his country, Bob returned to his hometown to work for his Uncle, William Cone, at their family business, the International dealership on Church St. in Chatham (current location of Stuarts). Being the young entrepreneur that Bob was, he quickly took over the lawn & garden department of the dealership. He married Patricia Reiner in 1959, and together, they raised 6 children. In 1964 it was time for him to venture out and start his own lawn and garden business. He constructed the building currently occupied by Napa on Church St. and started Bob's Lawn & Garden, LTD. Bob made a success of this business while raising a family and later, in 1973 he purchased the old Westover Ford dealership on Route 66. The business was moved to that location. He stayed there until starting his retirement business, Geel Distributing and moving to Florida in order to live near his beloved sister, Margaret and her husband Jim. He loved being close to the water, sun and sand. Along the way and through the years, Bob made many, many friends. As was his nature, he was always ready with a joke or a phony business card for friends and strangers alike. You always knew when "Bobby" was in a room. Bob will be remembered for his love of snowmobiling, socializing and life. He was a member of the American Legion (Chatham Post 42 and New Smyrna Post 17), and lifelong member of the Chatham Fire Department Hook & Ladder. He will be sorely missed and not forgotten. He is survived by his sister Margaret, his children, Audrey, Robert Jr., Scott, Bryan, Cathy and Carol. He will be missed by many grandchildren, a great grandson, nieces and a nephew. Bob is predeceased by his parents, Beatrice (Mable) and John Geel, and long-time companion, Joan Knights. Calling hours will be held at Wenk Funeral Home on Friday, October 17th between the hours of 5pm and 7pm. A service will be held on Saturday, October 18th at 11am at Wenk Funeral Home. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.wenkfuneralhome.com.