BROADLANDS — Robert Roland “Bobby G” Garrison, 67, passed away peacefully on Saturday (May 3, 2025) at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.
Bob was born on Oct. 9, 1957, in Baltimore, the son of Erminia Trovato Garrison Nejberger of Orange Park, Fla., and Roland Garrison. He married Margaret “Peggy” Pfaab on Aug. 19, 1983, in Homer.
He was preceded in death by his father and two sisters, Linda Trovato and Laura Garrison.
Bob was most proud of the family he and Peggy created, especially his three loving and dedicated daughters, Casey Marie Garrison of Philo, Leslie Joanne (Chris Irwin) Garrison of Ogden and Carley Elizabeth (Dominik) Harmon of Farmer City; and their four amazing grandchildren, Vance Robert McComas (17), Kellyn Landry Irwin (15), Ripken Archie Irwin (8) and Zaylin Jane Harmon (10 months).
Along with his mother; wife; children; and grandchildren, Bob is survived by his stepfather, Claude Nejberger; one sister, Deborah Gallion of Middleburg, Fla.; and many aunts; uncles; nieces; and nephews.
Bob was born in Baltimore, where his love of the outdoors and water began. He loved crabbing in the Chesapeake Bay, going to Ocean City, Md., every summer and working with his Uncle Vince at his marina.
Bob was an exceptional mechanic and was first introduced to auto mechanics by his stepfather. He later moved to Florida, where his father had a small-engine repair business. There he continued developing his skills working as an auto and diesel mechanic. Eventually, he worked on lawn mowers, generators, air conditioners, golf carts, washing machines, dryers, etc. — if it broke, Bob could fix it!
Bob moved to Illinois in 1977 and, around 1981, moved to Broadlands, where he found his true home. He loved his small town and believed strongly in his personal responsibility to the community. He quietly repaired equipment at the park, cleaned up after storms, and helped his neighbors and friends whenever he could. A few years ago, he opened a neighborhood snow-cone stand so the local kids (of all ages!) had something new to enjoy.
Bob was so much fun to be around. His love for all types of music was unmatched. He could sing or whistle any song and was quick to add his own silly lyrics. And, back in the day, he could really bust a move! His mischievous sense of humor kept everyone laughing, and we will miss it tremendously.
Bob’s family invites friends and family to join them in celebrating Bob’s life on Friday, May 9, from 5 to 8 p.m. in Bob’s Garage — where you could find Bob most of the time.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Broadlands Community Club and the Ayers Township Veterans Memorial.
NG 5/7/2025
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