Robert Colls

Robert W. “Rob” Colls, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 25, 2026, at the age of 83. Rob leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, generosity, and countless memories shared with the many people fortunate enough to know him.

Born in Macon, Georgia, on June 3, 1943, Rob was the son of Robert and Arlene Colls. He grew up in Rochester, New York, where he developed many of the interests and passions that would remain part of his life—earning the rank of Eagle Scout, playing the saxophone, enjoying drag racing on Friday evenings at Spencer Speedway, and embracing every opportunity to learn, build, and explore.

Rob attended Rush-Henrietta High School and later Rochester Institute of Technology. Soon after, he began what would become a remarkable 43-year career with Eastman Kodak Company. Over the course of his career, Rob held a variety of positions, beginning in tool and die making and ultimately advancing into international manufacturing management, a role that took him extensively throughout South America and Asia. His career reflected the qualities that defined him throughout his life: intelligence, determination, an exceptional work ethic, and a willingness to take on whatever challenge was in front of him.

It was in Rochester that Rob met the love of his life, Gloria Joyce Colls. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised their four children: Robert Scott Colls (Sue), Todd Joseph Colls (Wendi), Jennifer Anne Popen (Steve), and Shanna Dee Boynton (Matt). Rob and Gloria celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary earlier this year.

Family was at the heart of Rob’s life. He was a devoted husband and a proud father who cherished the lives his children created. His family continued to grow through the years, bringing him immense joy as a grandfather and great-grandfather. He is survived by his grandchildren Bailey (Zeke), Zach, Mackenzie, Gabe, Madison (Andrew), Mason, Corban, Corrin, and Lily; great-grandchildren Zeke “Bubs”, Christopher, Benjamin, Theodore, and Brooke.

Rob’s passions extended well beyond his career. He loved being on the water, spending countless summer days boating on Lake Ontario aboard his Sea Ray. Family trips to Toronto and the Thousand Islands created some of his most treasured memories, along with vacations to destinations near and far. For Rob, the destination was important—but the people he shared it with mattered most.

After retiring from Eastman Kodak, Rob and Gloria made a life-changing move to Cape Charles, Virginia, where they have called Bay Creek home for the past 19 years. Retirement, however, did not mean slowing down for Rob. He was never one to sit still for long. His lifelong passion for renovations, building, and home projects turned into a successful retirement business – CCC Renovations, through which he helped and served countless families throughout his community.

Rob had a gift for fixing things, figuring things out, and lending a hand. Whether it was a home project, a renovation, or simply helping a neighbor, he was someone people could count on. He gave his time generously and made friends wherever life took him.

And while Rob accomplished much throughout his life, perhaps his greatest accomplishment was the family and community he built around him. He will be remembered for his strength, his determination, his generosity, his sense of humor, and his unwavering love for Gloria and his family.

In memory of Rob, remember the simple things he enjoyed: do a Sudoku, have a cup of coffee, gather the family for a clam bake, wear crocs, and enjoy a cinnamon twist from the Corner Bakery. Most importantly, spend time with the people you love—because that is what Rob valued most.

Rob will be deeply missed by his family, friends, neighbors, and the many people whose lives he touched. His memory will live on in the stories we tell, the projects he helped create, the places he loved, and, most of all, in the family he leaves behind.

A Celebration of Life will be held in honor of Rob on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. at Chesapeake Hall in Bay Creek, Cape Charles, Virginia.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes thoughtful donations to the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD), Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1211 Medical Center Drive, Nashville, TN 37232 in Rob’s memory.

Arrangements made by Doughy Funeral Home of Exmore, Virginia.