Born October 3, 1947, in Brooklyn, New York, he was a resident of Wadsworth, Ohio. He grew up in Akron, Portage Lakes and Bath areas, graduating from Revere High School. Bob then attended the University of Akron where he earned a mechanical engineering degree and became an active member of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity. Following college, he enjoyed a very successful career in the mechanical and sales engineering industry within firms located in the Akron and Cleveland marketplace, retiring in 2015.
Bob was a collector of many treasures, especially trains, stamps and scouting memorabilia. Starting in his younger years, and carrying throughout his life, he loved to restore cars of all types with his prize restorations being a 1954 corvette and at 1967 GTO. He also excelled in woodworking and construction helping to oversee the building of several personal residences.
Bob’s love and commitment to Scouting America was evidenced by his Eagle Scout rank, his leadership both as a youth and adult in the Marnoc Order of the Arrow Lodge 151 where he received the Vigil honor recognition, and his years as a scoutmaster for Troop 411 in Sharon Center. He attended a scout National Jamboree at Valley Forge, PA as a youth, then again as an adult leader at Fort AP Hill, VA, while also serving for years in numerous ways to support the Great Trail Council’s summer camp programs. Bob’s volunteer efforts were also devoted to serving as a member of the Highland Local School Board for sixteen years, and spending time supporting various local animal rescue efforts.
Bob’s faith and belief in God helped to comfort him knowing God was by his side during his final moments of life on this earth. Bob was preceded in death by his father and mother, Laurits & Mary Nilsen, and his brother, Thomas Nilsen. Left to cherish Bob’s memory is his beloved wife of 54 years, Janis (Parsons) Nilsen; his son, Charles (Tera) Nilsen; his brother, Jim (Cheryl) Nilsen; his nephews Michael (Amy), David, and Andrew Nilsen; his niece Melissa (Eric Bentrott) Nilsen; grand niece and nephew, Celia and Simon Bentrott. Additionally, Bob leaves behind his two Siamese cats Thora and Chanel.
Calling hours will be Friday, October 9, 2026 at 10:00 am, followed immediately by a funeral service at 11:00 am both at Rose Hill Funeral Home & Burial Park, 3653 West Market St, Akron, OH 44333. Private interment with the family will follow at the Rose Hill Burial Park.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial gift to the Summer Campership Fund, Scouting America, Great Trail Council, 4500 Hudson Drive, Stow, OH, 44224.
