Robert (Bob) John Sullens, 77, passed away peacefully on March 14, 2025 surrounded by his wife and children. He is survived by his beloved wife Nancy, of 24 years, his loving children Rob Sullens, Rebecca Anderson (Mike), his brother Paul Petersen (Karen), aunt Rose Marie Giovenco, nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents James and Lillian Sullens, his sisters Doris Myers and Jean Bollack and brother Jimmy Sullens.
He graduated from Baltimore City College High School. He continued his education at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and graduated with an Airframe and Power Plant License. He worked as an aircraft mechanic, retired after 30 years with US Airways.
Bob joined the U.S. Navy on the buddy system with Paul Arnold in January 1967. He proudly served on the USS Kearsarge Aircraft carrier on the flight deck crash crew from 1967-1968 and in Vietnam as a crew chief door gunner with the highly decorated U.S Navy Helicopter Attack Light Squadron Number 3, The Ha(L)-3 Seawolves, Detachment 7.
He worked with the Navy Seals and Riverine Patrol Boats during the Vietnam Tet offensive from 1968-1969. Bob was awarded many combat medals including an air medal with a bronze star for his bravery and leadership. His commitment to his country was unwavering. His courage and devotion to duty under intense enemy fire, was nothing short of heroic. He was inducted into the prestigious Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard Enlisted Aircrew Roll of Honor on September 8, 2023 for his Military Service in Vietnam from September 1968-1969.
After retirement he and his business partner, Dave Kyle, started D&B Fabrication, where they listened to radio, drank coffee and had occasional beers. Their work day began at 10am, lunch from Noon to 2pm, and closed at 3pm. Each Wednesday they played volleyball at Clearwater Beach with friends. Life was good!!
Bob found joy in boating, fishing, scalloping, playing volleyball, traveling in his RV, deer hunting and being with family and friends. He was a member of the American Legion and Fraternal Order of the Eagles.
A celebration of Life will take place at Gulf Harbors Civic Association, 4610 Floramar Terrace, New Port Richey, FL on April 30, 2025, from 12pm – 4pm, with a Military Honors Service at 3:30pm.
In lieu of flowers, donation may be made in Bob’s memory to your choice of charity.
Gulf Harbor Civic Association
Paul and Karen
April 19, 2025, 4:15 pm
He was one of a kind. The best friend, best brother, generous, always wanted your company and loved us with all his heart. To say he will be missed is an understatement. Our hearts are broken but we know he would not want us to be sad. We have only the best memories of him and our times together. So, until we meet again and I’m certain we will, we will talk about all the crazy times and the fun we all shared. We love you Bob ❤️
Richard Mossman
April 19, 2025, 6:06 pm
Rembering the many deer hunting trips with Bobby and the rest of the crew,where success was measured not so much by deer taken,but who won the most at poker.Even though I hadn’t seen him in several years,I thought of him often.He will be sorely missed.
Sheila and Tom martin
April 19, 2025, 8:42 pm
For the 20 plus years we knew Bobby,
On the volleyball court and off, he made a difference in the lives of people around him. He was just a genuinely great person and friend. We had many good laughs, a few cries, and some friendly competitive, fun games. He will be missed dearly by many and definitely by us. RIP my friend.