Robert Thomas Blakely, Sr. passed away June 25, 2021 at the age of 85, while surrounded by his loving family. Bob was born in Wilmington, DE on July 14, 1935 to the late Mildred (Welch) and Gerald Blakely, Sr. He was the oldest of nine children. He graduated from Wilmington High School in 1953. Bob started working at the age of 14 to help support his family.
Bob served in the U.S. Army from 1958-1960 and was in the active reserves for six years. He was a sheet metal worker, until he retired in 1997, and was a proud member of the Local Union 19 until he passed. He was a member of the St. Anthony's Society in New Castle, DE, a past Vice President of St. Gabriel's Lodge, and a member of the Baltimore Colts Corral # 13. He was a zealous parishioner of St. Peter the Apostle Church in New Castle, DE for 60 years. Bob was also a strong and proud friend of Bill W. since 1984. After retirement he enjoyed woodworking and was a fervent reader. Bob loved days at the beach and being by the ocean. He particularly enjoyed spending time with John and Eleanor in Ocean City, NJ and making trips to Marco Island, FL. Spending time with his grandchildren and supporting them in school activities and sporting events was one of his favorite things to do.
He is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 60 years, Rose Marie (DeAscanis), as well as his children: Robert Blakely, Jr. (Diane), Maria Lankitus (Bill), Damian Blakely, Sr. (Tracy), Danielle Blakely (Jeff Kay) and his grandchildren: Charli Blakely, Zachary Crockett, Damian Blakely, Jr., Zane Crockett, Kristen Blakely, William E. Lankitus, Lisa Blakely, Morgan Lankitus, Anthony Fana-Ruiz, and his great-grandchild Aria Blakely. He is also survived by siblings: Lorraine Zickefoose, Geraldine Davis (Bob), Bernadine Burkhard, Judith Merrill, Donald Blakely; sister-in-law Natalie Blakely.
He is joined in death by his brothers Franklin Blakely, Sr., Gerald Blakely, Jr., and Rev. Leonard Blakely, as well as his daughter-in-law Sharon Blakely.
Thank you to Seasons Hospice and Vickie for the special care they extended to Bob and his family.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend the viewing on June 30, 2021 from 10am to 12pm at Krienen-Griffith Funeral Home, 101 W. 6th St., New Castle, DE 19720 Mass of Christian Burial will be held on June 30, 2021 at 12:30pm at St. Peter the Apostle Church, 521 Harmony St., New Castle, DE. Interment will be in St. Peter Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers please make contributions to St. Peter the Apostle Church, 521 Harmony St., New Castle, DE 19720 or Season's Hospice, 220 Continental Dr. Suite 407, Newark, DE 19713.