Robert Colling Obituary

May 13, 2026

Ken Blaze wrote a sympathy message

“So sad to learn of Bob’s passing. Bob was my swim instructor and swim coach at the Niagara Falls YMCA back in the early ‘70s. He was one person that went above and beyond. I will never forget the good times we had at the Y and some of the camping trips he would take us on. The guidance and kindness he had shown me and others was a big help in shaping our lives I’m sure. I was proud to call Bob my friend. Thank you Bob, the world is a little less brighter without you. Gods speed.”

January 25, 2026

Jeffrey Mead wrote a sympathy message

““Kayak Bob,” a force, great friend, gentle soul, educator, and people person. His love of nature lives out in many lives, as will Mexican Train dominoes – many now play, thanks to Bob! So many fond memories, including Bob often introducing us to fellow paddlers as the couple he guided on their honeymoon during a Florida Spring Fed Rivers Trip! Always planned a Keys trip with Bob, now never to be had. We always thought there’d be more paddles with Bob. May he rest in peaceful waters.”

January 25, 2026

Ellen Prill wrote a sympathy message

“Kayak Bob. So hard to believe this vibrant, stubborn, welcoming, thrifty, knowledgeable, loyal, passionate person is no longer here. Bob introduced me to paddling the freshwater jewels of northern Florida, snorkeling in the Keys and the salty waters of Rhode Island. Though he and I had a mildly contentious relationship the last couple years, his joy and mine of reconnecting in 2025-26 was real. Bob has left a legacy that goes beyond the joy of paddling. He made a difference in our world.”