Robert M. “Bob” Dennis – 76 – of Tobes Hill Road, Hornell (Town of Hornellsville) died unexpectedly on Friday (September 26, 2025) at his home which was the same home in which he was raised.
Affectionately known as “Bobby-D”, he was born in Hornell on April 16, 1949, and was the son of Melvin & Ruth (Connors) Dennis.
Growing up, Bob and his family lived a very primitive lifestyle. They owned & operated a horse farm (which Bob worked) and had no running water or indoor plumbing until the late 1970’s.
Bob was a graduate of Hornell High School (class of 1968). He was a veteran of the US Navy, serving his country from 1969 – 1971. While serving in the Navy, he was stationed on an “Oiler”
(a re-supplying vessel).
Following his honorable discharge from the Navy, Bob was employed for a time as a machine operator at the former Corbin Wood Products in Hornell. For over 30 years he worked on the road crew for the City of Hornell Department of Public Works (DPW), retiring in 2004.
A self-proclaimed “loner”, Bob was an avid outdoorsman who loved nature and simply being outdoors and working with his various trees & gardens around his farm. He enjoyed hunting (both deer and small game) and did not like modern conveniences such as cell phones. He had a deep affection for all animals would “adopt” any stray cat rather than see it go hungry.
He was preceded in death by his father, Melvin Dennis; his mother, Ruth Dennis; and his sister, Barbara Knapp.
Surviving are his son, Charlie (Colleen) Harrison of Hornell; his sister, Jean (Robert) Starace of Canisteo, several grandchildren, including Ryan (Kelly) Harrison, Jordan (Tiffany) Harrison, Gage (Katie) Harrison, Dawson Harrison and Ireland Harrison; along with several great-grandchildren,
At Bob’s request there will be no calling hours. Private services will be held at the convenience of the family.
Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
Bob’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the Hornell Humane Society, 7649 Industrial Park Road, Hornell, NY 14843.
To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com
