Robert "Bob" W. Eltz, PhD

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 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 Deborah Kinkaid Eltz, a loving and protective brother to Adele Evans (née 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 Microbiology. 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. 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. May his spirit live on in the hearts of those who knew him and continue to inspire those who were touched by his wisdom, warmth, and kindness. A celebration of Bob’s life will be a private affair. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a charity of your choice in his honor.