PORT EWEN – Robert L. Gileski, 82, of Port Ewen, NY, passed peacefully at home on January 29, 2022, with his “forever love,” Carol, by his side. Born March 15, 1939, he was the only son of the late Sophie and Lucian Gileski. Bob graduated from Johnstown (NY) High School and, in 1963, earned a bachelors degree from SUNY New Paltz. He taught art in the Wappingers CSD and retired in 1994.
Bob and Carol met in 1959 and were married for more than 58 years. Their marriage was a joyful, loving one and set an example for the three sons that they raised in Poughkeepsie (Ian, Eric and Adam) and their spouses (DawnAnn, Elizabeth and Davide). Bob also leaves behind his three beloved grandchildren (Kayleigh, Christian and Araina), Kayleigh’s husband (David Baxter), Carol’s surviving siblings (Helen, Robert, Francis and Therese) and their spouses, two half-siblings, many nieces and nephews, and dear friends.
Bob’s love of the wonderment of kids, and his benign mischief, made him everyone’s favorite uncle and grandpa. He was a one-in-a-million husband, father, grandfather and uncle, and loved his family and close friends above everything else. A Renaissance man, Bob was always ready with an ingenious solution to whatever problem you might have. His lifelong love of nature (especially birds of prey) was expressed through his woodburnings, and through kayaking and hiking with Carol across this gorgeous Hudson Valley.
Bob donated his body to the Albany Medical Center, which has kindly engaged the Hans Funeral Home in Albany to receive condolences. A celebration of Bob’s life has been scheduled for 1-4 p.m. on the afternoon of Saturday, May 21st, under the pavilion located in the George H. Freer Memorial Park, Town of Esopus. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Bob and Carol thank Hudson Valley Hospice and the Town of Esopus Volunteer Ambulance Squad (TEVAS, PO Box 910, Port Ewen, NY 12466). Contributions to them, a pulmonary-fibrosis charity or St. Jude would be greatly appreciated.
The world has lost a great mind, a great heart and a beautiful person. Bob would ask that you remember, and try to live by, the Golden Rule, because that’s the way he lived every day of his long, but too short, life.
To leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit www.HansFuneralHome.com .
Carole DiNonno
Dear Carol and Family, It was with great sadness that I read about Bob’s passing this morning. I can only imagine the depth of your loss. He was such a dominant presence to anyone who knew him. Having worked with him for so many years, I cherished our conversations and laughed at all of his inventive mischief. Watching him with children as he encouraged their artistic creativity was a lesson in empathy and excitement. Meeting up with him at various social situations was always enjoyable. His warmth and friendship was always apparent. His sense of humor was always welcomed. He always left me with a feeling of joy. He will be missed by all who knew him. May the love and support of friends and family help you navigate this difficult journey.
Kerry
On behalf of the Tracy family of whom were each Myers Mustangs at one time and all of us have fun memories of creative art classes with Mr. Gileski.. Please accept our condolences. My all of your warmest memories embrace you until such time God reunites you.
Respectfully,
The Tracy’s
Bob & Stazia Wermuth
Condolences to the Gileski family. I have fond memories of Bob and his daily visits to my convenience store on Vassar Road in Poughkeepsie. Always a smile and a great sense of humor!
Eileen Kerins
Dear Carol,
My deepest condolences to you and your family on Bob’s passing. He set the gold standard for art instruction! We will always remember his great sense of humor and his ability to create opportunities, objects and experiences from everything around him. Cherish the many memories of him for he truly was always “up to something!” He brought art to and out of his many students with an unusual flair, inspiring many to explore and create. He will be missed.
May the prayers and support of family and friends assist you during this time of need. May Bob rest in peace!
Lisa Poplawski
Dear Carol,
I was so sorry to read of your loss. I have fond memories of Bob, in golden apple , whenever he saw me come in he would tell you that you could go out for dinner because I was shopping. I hope I provided some dinners for two very deserving people. I trust your family, friends and wonderful memories will give you strength during this time. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely Lisa Poplawski
Ken and Gloria Tonkinson
Carol, Gloria and I send our thoughts and prayers. We had so many wonderful memories from our time at Myers Corners.