Robert Joseph “Bob” Sullivan, 82, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, died at his home on Sunday, August 14, 2016 after a lengthy illness.
Bob was born in Saginaw, Mi., to John M. and Kathleen Sullivan on July 11, 1934. He graduated from St. Mary’s High School in Saginaw. He continued on to serve our country in the Army in Germany during the Korean War. Bob was married to his high school sweetheart, Marianne Fleschner on June 11, 1955 in Birch Run, Michigan. They were married 57 years. Marianne passed away on May 1, 2012. Bob was devoted to Marianne, and lovingly cared for her during her extended illness of 20 years.
Bob was a faithful member of St. Jude Catholic Church for 40 years. He worked at Combustion Engineering as a Quality Control manager and was with the company for over 22 years. He loved being surrounded by family, particularly his grandchildren. He cherished watching everyone swimming in the pool, jumping off his boat into the lake, or simply enjoying family time together. He was cleverly creative and enjoyed the family’s reactions to his latest projects. He had a marvelous sense of humor, and always had a funny story to share.
Bob is survived by five children, daughter Patti (Steve) Krispinsky of Ashland, Ohio and sons, Bob (Dianne), Steve, Dennis (Janet) all of Chattanooga, and Jeff (Karen) of Urbandale, Iowa. There are 15 loving grandchildren and three great-grandchildren which include: Danny (Matti), Michael and Kelly Krispinsky, Anne, Andrew, Brian, Christian, and Ian Sullivan, Samantha (Matt) Powell, with Steele and Jacob. Erin, (Mike) Jaynes with Evelyn, Beth, Amy and Jill Sullivan, Michelle (Kush) and Katie Sullivan. Also surviving are beloved sisters and brothers, Jack (Teddy) Sullivan, Mary Kay (Bob) Paquette, Colleen (John) Armstrong, Rosemary Gaumer, Joe (Marilyn) Sullivan and Tom (Cathy) Sullivan. Also, sister-in-law Joan Pearce, and many nieces and nephews.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, John and Kathleen, and his sister, Joanne Beach, whom he called “his buddy”.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to St. Jude Catholic Church or Hospice of Chattanooga. The family of Bob Sullivan wishes to thank Hospice of Chattanooga for their loving care and support.
A Mass of Christian Burial will celebrate Bob’s life on Friday, Aug. 19, at 12:30 p.m. at St. Jude Catholic Church with Reverend Charles Burton officiating. Visitation will be held at the church prior to the service, from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.. Burial will follow at Chattanooga National Cemetery with military honors.
Arrangements are under the care of the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory and Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanooganorthchapel.com.