Robert “Bob” Cholister, age 83, of Leesburg, FL passed away peacefully on April 16, 2026. Born on October 23, 1942, Bob was the loving father of Danielle Dougherty (Ken) of Florida and Joelle Feret (John) of New Jersey. Bob was a devoted grandfather to Brielle, Arielle, Kayla (Victoria), and Krista.

Bob was the loving son of the late Harry Cholister and the late Willetta Meines. Bob was a dear brother to Jean Bennett. Bob was predeceased by his former wife, Jean Cholister.

Bob was born in New Jersey and was a proud “South Jersey” man. He loved living in the Pine Barrens area, where his fondest memories were made.

Bob served honorably in the United States Navy on the USS Waller. Bob was a proud veteran who served during the Vietnam War and was stationed in the Mediterranean region. During his military career, he achieved the rank of Petty Officer Third Class E4.

After serving in the United States Navy, Bob worked as a mechanic and truck driver. Bob followed his passion for driving a truck and became an owner operator of his own trucking company, Bob Cholister Trucking, from which he retired. Bob spent most of his life in New Jersey until retirement. After retirement, he moved to Virginia, and then relocated to Florida.

Bob was loved by many friends and family, near and far. He was known by most as “Cigar Bob.” Bob was always actively involved in the lives of his daughters and granddaughters…he loved all of his girls. Bob was a “Jack of All Trades” and lent a helping hand and his knowledge to whomever needed it, even if they did not ask. He was always there for everyone, day or night. He often described himself as snarky, which those who were close to him agreed. However, once you got past the snarkiness, his best attribute was having the biggest heart.

Bob leaves behind a legacy of hard work, service, and a deep devotion to his family and friends. He will be truly missed and remembered fondly.

Celebration of life details will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to St. Jude’s Research Hospital, https://www.stjude.org/donate or 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.