Robert Dillon

Robert “Bob” Dillon, 74, of DeLand, Florida, passed away peacefully on August 3, 2025, in Orange City, Florida.

Born May 25, 1951, at St. Clair’s Hospital in New York City, Bob was the beloved son of a proud NYPD officer and a devoted homemaker. Growing up in a railroad apartment in Queens with his parents and sister, Bob often reminisced about the carefree days of stickball in the streets, “sliding on asphalt,” and summers spent at Rocky Point Beach with his lifelong best friend, Artie, who preceded him in death just six months ago.

In 1977, Bob realized a lifelong dream when he became a member of New York’s Bravest, proudly serving as a firefighter in Queens, Harlem, and Manhattan. Firefighting was his passion, and he never hesitated to take extra shifts to provide for his family. His career reached a highlight when he was promoted to Lieutenant on August 4, 1991 — a day he described as a dream come true.

After retiring in 2000, Bob moved with his family to River Run, Maryland, where he discovered a new love in golf. Owning his own golf cart, he played as often as possible, at one point carrying an impressive 8 handicap. Off the greens, he was happiest behind a grill, earning the affectionate nickname “Bob E Q” for his skill and joy in cooking for friends and family.

Bob’s warm smile, infectious sense of humor, and ability to light up any room made him a friend to everyone he met. He cherished his family deeply and found the greatest joy in time spent with them.

Bob is preceded in death by his first wife, Stephanie Dillon.

Bob is survived by his loving wife, Ruby Dillon; his children, Heather Dillon, Susan Dillon, and Colleen (Rob) Lengemann; his sister, Joanne (Neil) Halloran; his treasured grandchildren, Christopher Dillon; Carrie, Autumn, Angalina, Natalie, Ellie, and Avery Lengemann; and Ellie Rose Smith, with whom he shared a special bond.

A devoted member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church in DeLand, Bob was also active with the Knights of Columbus.

In the final entry of a memoir, he was writing for his youngest granddaughter, Ellie Rose, Bob reflected on the joy in his life: “Golfing and grilling for family gatherings, being with ‘Gaga’, doing about anything, just seeing a smile on her face. ❤️”

Bob will be remembered as a man of service, laughter, and love — a true family man who lived with passion and purpose.

A Memorial Gathering of family and friends will take place on Thursday, August 14, 2025 from 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM at Lankford Funeral Home in DeLand, FL. A Funeral Mass will follow at 1:30 PM at St. Peter Catholic Church in DeLand, FL. The family will be hosting a reception at Northwest Square following the Mass from 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to Tunnels to Towers.