A small chapel mass will be held for New Hope legend “Captain” Bob Gerenser at St. Martins of Tours Church in New Hope on Friday, June 10, at 11 a.m.
Gerenser died from heart failure on Saturday at Frankford Hospital in Philadelphia. He was 63.
“Bob’s family and friends are cordially invited to share their memories of Bob, and learn more about the difference he made in our lives as the unique person he was,” say organizers. The service will be followed by a light luncheon at the home of Bob’s sister, Judy Williamson, at 200 W. Bridge St.
Gerenser’s family asks that contributions be directed to St. Martin of Tours Church, or the Animal Alliance of New Jersey in Lambertville, in lieu of flowers.
Born in Trenton, Robert “Captain Bob” Gerenser owned and operated Gerenser’s Exotic Ice Cream parlor in New Hope, a business established by his parents in 1946, and also ran Coryell’s Ferry Historic Boat Ride. He was a former borough council member, former president of the Independent Merchants Association, commanding officer and founder of the Coryell’s Ferry Militia, historical reenactor, and volunteer firefighter, among other personal and civic interests.
Gerenser is survived by his life partner Justine Walters of New Hope; his children Lt. Robert V. Gerenser Jr., National Guard, of Philadelphia, and Kiersten Lee Smith of Ottawa, Canada; his sister Judy Williamson of New Hope, and his nephews Frederick S. and Michael B. Williamson of New Hope.
“Bob helped anyone who was struggling, and was a true gentleman,” recounts Walters. “He was fascinating, inspiring, and tireless in his love of New Hope. Please join the family of Captain Robert Gerenser in the chapel at St. Martin’s for a mass to celebrate the life of this extraordinary man.” A Facebook Event page has been created to publicize the service.
St. Martin of Tours Church is located at 1 Riverstone Circle in New Hope.
The public is also invited to join in the ceremonial scattering of Bob’s ashes at Washington Crossing Park in Pennsylvania on Saturday, June 4, at 10 a.m. Local militias will be attending in uniform, and a salute is planned.
bob will be missed. RIP
Tthank you again Charlie for helping to make this service a true “community” event!
I have been heartened by the response from Bob’s friends, militia folk, and former employees! It seems that working a summer job at Getenser’s was almost a rite of passage for local youth.
I’m hearing many stories of how Bob helped
People who were in trouble. It didn’t matter if Bob agreed with their politics or not! If he heard of a need, he was there!
So it appears that we will have a very nice turnout on Friday! My goal is to make this event an “up” mood and what Bob would have wanted in a party!
You’re right, Judy, I’m hearing those stories too…and love of animals, which I never knew about. It’s time to hoist a glass and celebrate Bob’s life, he would have wanted a party! Thank you for all you’ve done to make all this happen during a difficult time. Looking forward to meeting you! – CS