Robert Larry Ganey

Robert Larry Ganey, of Ruskin, FL, born in Jacksonville, FL on February 13, 1950, passed away at South Bay Hospital in Sun City Center on April 10, 2015. Robert is survived by his children; Tammy Ganey Toton (Jeremy); James Robert Ganey (Amy Blackwelder); his siblings, Jerry Ganey (Frieda); Linda Williams (Ronnie Head); Gail Bradeen (Richard); his granddaughter, Amber Toton. He was preceded in death by his parents, James R. and Vivian Ganey. He was just four short months away from meeting his son’s unborn daughter, Isla Vivian Ganey. Robert attended Ribault High School in Jacksonville, FL. On July 24, 1969 he was drafted into the U.S. Army. As a Private First Class, he valiantly served in Vietnam from February 22, 1970 to July 17, 1970, at which time he was honorably discharged due to gunshot wounds to the right knee and face. For his bravery he was awarded the Purple Heart, Silver Star, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic Vietnam Campaign Medal and Sharpshooter (M-14 rifle, M-16 rifle) Award. While recovering from his wounds at Walter Reed Hospital in Washington, D.C., he was told by doctors that he would probably never walk again. Robert was always one to do things his way, so he proved them wrong and walked for the next 45 years. On November 5, 1973 he married the mother of his children, Deborah Anne Culberson. They remained married for 27 years. He ardently worked as a sand blaster for 40 years. He worked on many naval ships all over the country in cities such as San Francisco, CA, Portland, OR and Galveston, TX. Robert often worked 80 hours a week, so that he could provide the best possible life for his family. During a given month it was not uncommon for him to buy a new car for his wife, a boat for the family or any toy his children desired. His favorite hobbies were fishing, playing guitar and riding his Harley-Davidson Wide Glide. His passion for these hobbies were instilled in him as a young child. He grew up enjoying many a fishing outing with his family. As a teenager, he rode motorcycles and played his guitar in a band with his brother, Jerry and their friends. Robert made friends wherever he went. It was easy for him to make friends because people could not help, but be attracted to his giving heart and his innate ability to tell things as they were. During his retirement years he enjoyed having friends and family come over to his house. His garage served as a social gathering spot where he loved to sit and proudly tell stories from his adventurous past. Those stories brought joy and laughter to anyone that was within earshot of him. He was always quick to offer someone a drink or even the shirt off his back if necessary. He was the ultimate host, always accommodating, despite the fact that he was suffering from some physical pain. His strength, good humor, kindness, generosity and zest for life will be sorely missed. The family wishes to thank everyone for their love and support. A wake will be held at Corey-Kerlin Funeral Home, 940 Cesery Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32211 on Monday, April 20, 2015 from 6:00pm-8:00pm. A Graveside Service with full Military Honors will be held at the Jacksonville National Cemetery, 4083 Lannie Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32218 on Tuesday, April 21, 2015 at 11:00am sharp. A reception will be held at 1594 Point Park Dr E, Jacksonville, FL 32225 immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, as an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be sent to the family at 1594 Point Park Dr E, Jacksonville, FL 32225.