Robert "Bob" Rooks

Robert “Bob” Rooks, 78, of Baltimore, Maryland passed away on July 26, 2025 at his home in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. Bob is survived by his wife of 57 years, Geri, and his children: Robin, Renee, Ryan and Robert K. along with his five grandchildren: Connor, Gwynneth, Jaime, Stowe and Murren.

Bob was the fifth of eight children raised by his mother, Ella. As he grew older, he found work as an exercise-rider for equestrian races splitting time between Pimlico and various places in New York.

He joined the Air Force and served proudly for 13 years with selection for assignment on programs related to the SR-71, being stationed in Taiwan, Japan, California and Missouri.

Bob had a life-long dedication to social services; along with his wife, he was a foster parent for 20 years, impacting over 100 foster kids. He later spent 30 years with the Daniel Memorial Institute in Jacksonville, FL, culminating with being the Director of the Florida Adoption Information Center. He assisted thousands with adoption services impacting generations of families. He was a nationally recognized subject matter expert in adoption and foster care services and a member of the Board of Directors for the National Adoption Association when he recently retired.

Bob’s hobbies include being a part-time clown with the name of ‘Juggles’ and performing for various area charities and events; riding his penny-farthing bike; playing the mandolin and banjo; world travel (especially anything Rick Steves); listening to 60’s pop and folk music, and spending time with grandkids.

No services are planned. In memory of Bob, the family is requesting donations to www.danielkids.org/donate/give-now/ where those resources will directly improve the lives of children and families while supporting the organization’s motto of ‘Improving the Odds for Kids.’