Robert Beatty, accomplished architect
Robert Beatty, 83, of Rehoboth Beach passed away peacefully with his family by his side Tuesday, June 12, 2018, at Delaware Hospice in Milford. Bob was born in Philadelphia, son of William and Bertha (Snyder) Beatty.
He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army in Korea and the Air Force Reserve. Bob graduated with a degree in architecture from Temple University in Philadelphia with the help of the GI bill. He served as architect for Fidelity Bond and Mortgage Company until he created his own building company, which included land planning and development, working closely with local and state authorities. His "Better Built By Beatty" motto was a whimsical example of his quiet humor.
He married Barbara Gribbin in 1960, and was a devoted husband and father. Bob cherished his wife and children, and was proud of his children's academic and athletic achievements. He was manager of the Little Flyers hockey team while son Bobby played. Bob took great pride that his daughter Elizabeth excelled at horseback riding and won numerous ribbons during jumping competitions. She also played lacrosse and served as manager for the Germantown Academy Patriots football team. Bob could be seen on the field at every home game of the Germantown Academy Patriots football team as box man of the chain crew so he could better see his son Brian play for the four years he was a varsity player. He also was most proud that he, his daughter and son were on the football field together for all GA home games.
Born and raised in Philadelphia, Bob was an avid sports fan. For many years he had tickets on the 40-yard line for the Philadelphia Eagles home games. He was overjoyed when the Eagles finally won the Super Bowl. He attended many Flyers hockey games and remained a great fan. While a member of the Germantown Cricket Club, he enjoyed playing squash and other activities. He delighted being host of the first cocktail party of the Christmas season for his East Falls friends and neighbors for many years. He particularly liked the challenge of bridge and poker with longtime friends.
After surviving a massive stroke, Bob, through hard work and intense determination, moved with his wife to Rehoboth Beach, where he built his home and enjoyed newly made friends, community, beach and the beautiful garden he created. He continued his architectural craft of designing homes, and was an avid reader. He was a member of Cape Henlopen Elks Lodge 2540, where he played bridge every Monday.
Bob will be remembered for his love of family, friends, his quick wit and dry sense of humor. He was loved immensely by his family, and will forever be missed.
He is survived by Barbara, his wife of 57 years; his children Robert, Elizabeth and Brian; brother William and sister Helen; grandchildren William and Katherine; nephew Mark Valentine and niece Ann Marie Malone.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Bob's name to Delaware Hospice,100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963.
Friends are welcome to join the family for a Celebration of Bob's Life at noon, Saturday, June 23, at the Village Improvement Association, Grenoble Place at the Boardwalk, Rehoboth Beach. Interment is private.
Arrangements by Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, Lewes.
Please visit Bob's Life Memorial Webpage and sign his online guestbook at www.parsellfuneralhomes.com.
