It is with deep sorrow and great love that we announce the passing of Robert Walter Eltz, affectionately known as Bob, who left us unexpectedly on February 28, 2025, at the age of 92. Surrounded by his loving family, he peacefully passed in Fort Collins, CO, a place he cherished for the final chapter of his life. 

Born in Jeffersonville, Sullivan County, NY, Bob was the son of Carl George Eltz and Adele Lillian Eltz (née Markert). Throughout his long and fulfilled life, he called many places home—from New York to Connecticut, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Wisconsin, and Missouri, before settling in Colorado to be closer to his family. Each stop along the way enriched Bob’s journey, leaving him with cherished memories and deep connections wherever he went. 

Bob was an unwaveringly devoted husband to the late Deborah Kinkaid Eltz, a loving and protective brother to Adele Evans (nee Eltz), and a proud and caring father to Karen Eltz Lovette, Kurt Walter Eltz, and Kirsten (Neil) Eltz Danekind. He was also a doting grandfather to Cynthia, Paige, Keelyn, Grace, Quinn, and Nicole. His family was his heart, and his legacy lives on in each of them. 

His remarkable life was not only defined by his familial love but also by his passion for learning, discovery, and sharing knowledge. As an avid reader and lifelong learner, Bob had an insatiable curiosity about the world. He found joy in discussing science, exploring the internet, and engaging in deep conversations about the world around him. Nature was a constant source of peace and inspiration, and he loved nothing more than driving through the mountains and plains of Colorado with his family and friends including his dear friend, Marje. To his grandchildren, Bob was not only a grandfather but a storyteller, imparting wisdom with patience and affection. 

Bob was a proud graduate of Jeffersonville High School, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and Cornell University, where he earned his PhD in Philosophy. He was a lifetime member of Sigma Xi, an international honor society, and the American Chemical Society. His professional career in Microbiology, Biochemistry and Chemical engineering spanned decades, during which he made substantial contributions to his field. As a mentor, Bob was known for his kindness, integrity, and willingness to lend a helping hand to colleagues and students alike. His work, his dedication, and his leadership will continue to resonate for years to come. 

In addition to his accomplishments, Bob was a man of great generosity, humility, and grace. His friendships and relationships were a testament to the life he lived—one defined by sincerity, care, and selflessness. His family and friends will forever remember him as a source of wisdom, comfort, and inspiration. 

Bob was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Deborah; his sister, Adele; his parents; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. He is survived by his children, grandchildren, nieces, nephew, and a vast circle of friends who were fortunate to know him. His legacy of love, generosity, and unwavering integrity will continue to guide all who had the privilege of crossing his path. 

Joined by family and a few close friends to honor his memory, a celebration of Bob’s life will take place as his children and grandchildren travel to Jeffersonville, his birthplace, and to Philadelphia, where his late wife, Deborah, rests. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a charity of your choice in his honor. 

May Robert Walter Eltz rest in peace, forever cherished by his family, friends, and all who loved him. His spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, and his life will continue to inspire those who were touched by his wisdom, warmth, and kindness.