Robert Adrian Scanlan

Robert Adrian Scanlan of Maumee, Ohio, born August 24, 1926 to parents John and Marie Scanlan of Long Island, New York, died on October 28, 2021. After a brief battle with esophageal cancer, he passed peacefully at age 95 in his sleep with his daughter by his side holding his hand and playing is favorite music – mid 1900’s big bands. He was ‘Grandpa Bob’ to his five older grandchildren, ‘Bob Bob’ to his two youngest grandchildren, and ‘Honey Bee Bob’ to those who knew him as a bee-keeper and treasured his gifts of honey. When asked the day before his death if he should be met up or down, he told his son “up.” He was an avid organic farmer, and he knew what he would tell St. Peter at the pearly gate … ”I’ll make you a garden if you let me in!”. He loved to share the bounty. When on hospice, his favorite song became Row, Row, Row Your Boat and he emphasized the last line each time- ‘Life is but a dream!’ Originally from New York, he lived on St. Croix, USVI in the 1950s and 60s where he had a reputation as a quality home builder. His personal residence constructed there still stands today despite hurricane destruction to adjacent homes. He loved the ocean, sailing, swimming, diving, and watching the majestic sunrises and sunsets from his front lawn overlooking the Caribbean Sea. After St. Croix, he lived in Kauai, Hawaii where he built another personal residence and New Jersey where he built yet another. He was preceded in death by his daughter Joan, brothers Jack and Harry, and sister Nancie. He is survived by his children Patricia, Deborah, Mark and Eva, and grandchildren David, Stephen, Elizabeth, Amanda, Logan, Libby and Sean. His final years were at The Elizabeth Scott Community where he became friends with residents and staff; that was his way. He was a caring father, fun friend and loved by many. He will be missed. In memory, his wish was to have a glass raised and a toast “Here’s to Robert!” His ashes will be spread in the sea that he loved. No flowers please; he was a vegetable gardener. Those who wish to honor him may donate to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.