Robert Eugene 'Bob' English, 79

SMYRNA - Robert Eugene "Bob" English, of Smyrna, passed away on Feb. 7, 2009, in the Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill. He was 79, born on Sept. 29, 1929, in Frailey Township, Pa. Bob enjoyed woodworking, small engines, reading and being around family and children. Bob had a love for life and always had a smile for people he met. He was a 1947 graduate of Tremont, Pa. In his class yearbook, it was stated that his favorite name was Ruth. On May 27th of 1949, Bob married his high school sweetheart, Ruth Klinger. In June of 1948, Bob joined the Army National Guard of Pennsylvania, serving 4 years and a tour of duty in Korea. Bob received military qualification for sharpshooter and marksman, and also received the Korean Service Medal with 3 bronze campaign stars. Bob worked for many years as an auto mechanic, including service manager at Hall Buick & Pontiac in Smyrna. He also worked with his family for McGinnis Market for many years. Following that he worked in the retail parts industry, including Clements Supply and Parkview Recreational Vehicles. Following in his father's footsteps, Bob was a 50+ year member of the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Harmony Lodge 13 in Smyrna, Delaware. He also enjoyed volunteering with his wife at the Mamie A. Warren Senior Center in Kenton, where together they delivered 'meals on wheels' to shut-ins. Bob was preceded in death by one brother, Lamont English; and his parents, Franklin and Winifred English. He is survived by his wife, Ruth; and six children, William English of Smyrna, Linda Foskey of Dover, Craig English of Smyrna, Don English of Dover, Thomas English of Smyrna, and Marsha Pope of Fayetteville, Ga. He is also survived by one sister, Edith English of Newark; 19 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. Services and burial in the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Bear, will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to either the Mamie A. Warren Senior Center, 1775 Wheatleys Pond Road, Clayton, DE 19938; or the Alzheimer's Association, 100 South Main Street, Suite 211, Smyrna, DE 19977. Arrangements are by Faries Funeral Directors and Crematorium Inc, 29 South Main Street Smyrna, Delaware. Letters of condolence may be sent by visiting www.fariesfuneralhome.com.