Robert Eugene Cornelison, 81, passed away peacefully on July 14th, 2024 at his home in Rochester, NY.

Born to Dan & Mary Alice Cornelison on June 28th, 1943, in Maryville, Missouri, Bob was proud of his midwestern roots. He completed college at Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville, after which he dutifully served in the US Army. Bob was a staunch supporter of veterans throughout the remainder of his life. Following his military service, Bob relocated to Rochester, NY to pursue a career with Eastman Kodak Company as a chemical engineer. After retirement from Kodak, he pursued a degree in horticulture from Finger Lakes Community College, following his passion for landscaping and gardening. He then enjoyed what he often referred to as his “second career,” working at various local nurseries and on the grounds of his beloved home on Penfield Road.

Bob was dedicated to his family and gained so much joy from time spent together. He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Jantina Cornelison, as well as brothers Richard Cornelison and Joseph (Ellita) Cornelison. He is also survived by son Justin (Angelica) Cornelison; daughter Rebecca (Marc) Lavender; step-children Tom (Arlene) Lubberts; Karen (Wally) Przybycien; Joyce Glanzel; and Jim (Debra) Lubberts; as well as 13 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

Family and faith were cornerstones of Bob’s life and guided his daily actions. There wasn’t a family gathering, birthday, sporting event, or important life milestone that he missed or wouldn’t drop everything to attend. Right beside his commitment to family was that to his church community. Whether serving as a deacon, participating in men’s bible study and the Wednesday Guys, shoveling and salting the sidewalks in winter, or providing rides to the Sunday morning church service, Bob found great fulfillment in serving his faith community. He will be remembered as a faithful servant and for his kindness to all.

The family will receive friends for calling hours on Sunday, August 4th from 4-6pm at Rochester Christian Reformed Church (2750 Atlantic Avenue. Penfield, NY 14526). Funeral services will be held at 10am on Monday, August 5th also at Rochester Christian Reformed Church. Burial will follow immediately afterwards at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Rochester, NY.
In lieu of flowers, kindly donate to Rochester Christian Reformed Church or Lifespan of Greater Rochester, NY.