ROBERT MERRITT GRIMSLEY

LATHAM - Robert Merritt Grimsley, 83, of Latham, New York, passed away peacefully on December 25, 2025.

Affectionately known as Bob, he was born on November 28, 1942, in Syracuse, NY, the son of the late Arthur and Hazel Grimsley. Bob was a graduate of Hudson Valley Community College in Troy, where he earned his associate degree in civil engineering. He went on to enjoy a long and fulfilling career as a civil engineer with Kestner Engineers in Troy, NY among other companies. Following his retirement, Bob remained active by working part-time as a driver for a local dental laboratory.

Bob married Judy A. (Pelgrin), on November 11, 1977, sharing many years of devotion, companionship, and love. He cherished his friendship with Tom and Kathy Englat who stood beside him and Judy on their wedding day. Kathy, a lifelong best friend of Judy's, passed 11 years ago and it brings Judy much peace knowing she was waiting for Bob with open arms.

Bob was an avid golfer and enjoyed playing darts, but most of all he valued time spent with family and friends. When the children were younger Bob and his family spent many beach vacations with close friends, Bob and Terry Hoffmeister. In later years, he enjoyed a memorable vacation to Aruba along with trips to Maine and Cape Cod with relatives Joanne, Paul (Bob's buddy who passed away two years ago), and Fred and Paula.

A longtime and dedicated member of the Latham-Colonie Elks Lodge, Bob was especially proud of his role running the kitchen, where he generously volunteered his time and talents and formed lasting friendships within the community.

In addition to his parents, Bob was predeceased by his beloved daughter, Tracy Smith.

He is survived by his loving wife, Judy A. (Pelgrin) Grimsley; his son, Brian (Kyra) Grimsley; and his cherished grandchildren, Jessie (Kim) Rivera, Hayden Grimsley, and Rhiannon Grimsley. He is also survived by his great-grandson, Carson Ryan.

Bob is further survived by his brother-in-law, Joseph (Mary) Pelgrin; sister-in-law, Joy (David) Wyman; nieces and nephews, Jaclyn, Shawn, Thomas, and Kathleen; several great-nieces and great-nephews; cousins Kenneth (Sherrey) Naylor and Faith Smith.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend calling hours on Tuesday, January 6, from 3:00 to 5:00 PM at The Dufresne & Cavanaugh Funeral Home, 149 Old Loudon Road, Latham. A prayer service will conclude the visitation beginning at 4:45 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Parkinson's Foundation at www.parkinson.org.

For further information or to express a message of condolence, please visit www.dufresneandcavanaugh.com