Robert James Reilly
June 16, 1952 ~ December 30, 2022
Rob (Bob) Reilly passed away on December 30th, 2022, at the age of 70, after a 3-year battle with cancer. He was born on June 16, 1952 in Minneapolis, Minnesota to George W. Reilly, Jr. and Jean McKirnan Reilly. He is survived by his wife, Barbara Eaton Reilly, brother and sister-in-law George and Judith Reilly of Brandon, VT, nephew Paul Reilly, Paul's wife Cassandra and four great-nephews and nieces of Wilton, CT.
Rob grew up in Wilmington, DE and attended the Tatnall School before going on to Haverford College, and ultimately graduating from Principia College in Illinois with a BA in Economics and History. While at Principia, he took one computer programming independent study course, liked it, and because of his adept abilities and connections at the college, ended up teaching the course on an interim basis after graduation. His skills, both technical and interpersonal, led to a lifetime career as a consultant in software development for large banks, with his primary client being Wells Fargo (previously United Banks of Denver and Norwest). He also followed his latent entrepreneurial urges, starting and operating two small businesses.
When he was 13 years old in Wilmington, Rob applied to be a volunteer and met Tom Marshall, founder and manager of the Wilmington & Western tourist railroad. There began one of the most important relationships in his life, and his lifelong passion for railroads and steam engines. He accompanied Tom on a cross-country tour in 1982 in his Stanley Steamer antique car, and later acquired his own 1913 Stanley Steamer with which he participated in numerous tours all over the country.
Rob met his beloved wife-to-be, Barbara Eaton, in 1992 and they married in 1994. They had an adventurous and active life together, retiring early from their jobs in order to travel and explore the world together. Their regular excursions took them to countless places in the U.S. and 48 foreign countries, with friends new and old.
After Rob retired from consulting, Tom Marshall asked him to be the first Executive Director of a non-profit he was forming to include a museum on his estate in Delaware, containing the world's foremost collection of operating Stanley steam cars. Rob served in that position for 2 years, and he and Barb enjoyed living between Colorado and Delaware during that time. He remained on the board of that organization until his death. Later in life, Rob was a dedicated volunteer for the Denver Trolley, serving on its board and operating committee.
Rob was known for his sense of humor (a master of spontaneous puns), his sweet nature, multitude of lifelong friendships, and a ready smile.
There will be no immediate funeral service, but a small celebration of life is planned for the Spring when a tree is planted in his memory.
Memorial Donations
In lieu of flowers, donations in Rob’s memory may be made to
Friends of Auburn Heights
PO Box 61, Yorklyn, DE 19736
The Denver Trolley, Denver Tramway Heritage Society
PO Box 216, Severance, CO 80546