Bob Nilsson
September 20, 1977-August 1, 2024
“Resistance is never futile. When we fight, we win.”
~Bob Nilsson 11-29-22
Bob Nilsson, a lifelong fighter, unexpectedly passed away on August 1st. 2024. From babe in arms to world shaker and protector, what a life! Bob’s journey was marked by resilience, determination, and a commitment to making a difference. His legacy will forever resonate with those who knew him.
Bob fought tirelessly for what he loved. He championed causes that mattered, striving to keep our world healthy and peaceful. His instrumental role in banning fracking in New York State exemplified his commitment to maintaining a safe and healthy world. Bob lived fearlessly while seeking justice and truth, even when it was unpopular. Friends and foes alike knew that if a problem or issue needed fighting for, Bob was the one to do it. Bob made everyone he crossed paths with feel seen. Most of the time, this was good unless you got on his bad side. His actions often spoke louder than his words.
Although life threw challenges at Bob, he met them head-on. He battled life-altering health conditions from birth. Against all odds, he survived an open-heart surgery just one month before his son Justin’s birth. Known for being stubborn, Bob even defied doctors’ predictions for his health, sharing 23 precious years with him. He was recognized for numerous incredible things throughout his time on Earth; however, being Justin’s father was his proudest achievement.
Justin will remember him for making the absolute most out of every day, “living every day as his last,” and instilling in him the most powerful lesson of “never stop chasing his dreams,” doing whatever makes him happy, giving it everything he has, and more. There was always fun to be had, jokes to be made, hell to be raised. His life was full of passion for peace, love, change, and growth.
Additionally, Bob is remembered for his passion for live music and his admiration for nature. If Bob wasn’t at a concert, you could find him floating along Hemlock Lake. His energy will forever resonate with the Eagles who call the lake home.
Though 46 years may seem short, Bob’s impact burned brightly. He was unapologetically himself through and through. His life was beautiful, and his legacy transcends time, leaving an impression that will endure. As we remember him, let us honor his fighting spirit and the love he poured into every battle.
Bob was preceded in death by his father, Peter Nilsson, and his brother, Christos. He is survived by his mother, Joni Nilsson, his son, Justin Nilsson, and countless siblings, nieces, nephews, family, and friends.
MEMORIAL INFORMATION
- Sunday, September 22nd, 2:00 p.m., at Hemlock Lake Pavilion. BYOB. Please bring a chair and a dish to share.
- For general questions, contact Justin at (585)-519-3936 or Daniel at (716) 247-7952
- For bringing a dish or questions about food, contact Tracy at (585)-224-5202
- If you would like to volunteer to help, contact Turi at (410) 382-4156
Donations can be made to Donate to Bob Nilsson Memorial and Other Expenses Fund, organized by Kelly Garlock Marciniak
If anyone I’ve known lived up to Shaw’s “Some men see things as they are and say why, I dream things that are yet to be and say why not?”, it was our Nephew, Bob Nilsson. Our world is a better place per his all too brief life. He was kind, but fierce, thoughtful but passionate, a visionary but also a person of action.
Bob made us all better and more thoughtful and aware of the world and nature and life around us. Bob was a gift of love and joy, hope and resilience. We were blessed by his embrace of life and Dr. King’s “Fierce Urgency of Now” for the causes he so deeply cared about.
For the many who miss Bob, may your memories of him warm your heart and bring a smile to your lips. When you see a raptor soar or a sunset over water, feel Bob’s spirit and feel the gentle breeze of his soul surrounding you. And, as Bob would say, “Peace Out.”
Bobs creativity sure did give Rob, Dustin, and myself an amazing and interesting experience in life. There wasn’t much Bob wouldn’t do for us, and just he lived you so much. I as soon as my phone rang I had a feeling about what it was about. I’m going to miss venting to you about my personal life and about complications about my health. Who knows, maybe I’ll see you soon the way my heart has bee acting. I love and miss you Bob.
Bob and I knew each other like… neighbors a few blocks away, actually two hills. We knew each other from the Conesus dump, the Dansville demo against fracking (I thinky my fam and I were the only right winger’s there), lol, the earth 🌎 is what matters and FB! May his fam have some peace ✌️.
I met Bob through Justin, who is my son’s best friend and became like my own son. Bob was a force to be reckoned with but had a heart of gold. He adored his son and that was enough for me. We will miss you Bob, but your memory will last forever. Hugs to Justin.
You lived Your life to the fullest and let others join in the merriment and efforts, bringing a wide range of skills and views to all You participated in/with.
You’ll always be the , Righteous Dude to me.