Robert F. Degnan

Robert Francis Degnan, 81, of Barnegat, NJ, passed peacefully on October 3, 2024.

Robert was born in Elizabeth, NJ in 1943 to Philip and Olivine (Gomond) Degnan, and was one of six children: Terry, Dolly, Catherine, Tom, and Dale.

He married his high school sweetheart, Marie Elaine (Jankunas), in 1964 and after proudly serving in the U. S. Army where he advanced to the rank of sergeant; they made their home in Westfield, NJ.  Robert was a devoted and loving father to daughters Karen and Kristin, teaching them to work hard, play harder, and never sweat the small stuff.  In fact, no matter what obstacle life threw his way, his mantra was “It is what it is.”

He loved fishing, crossword puzzles, reading books, his daily Star-Ledger, traveling, gin and orange juice – “made nice,” the annual family vacations on LBI, and most of all the love of his life, Marie Elaine, who he endearingly called his “Blondie.”

Robert is survived by his wife of 60 years, Marie Elaine, daughters Karen and Kristin, son-in-law Eric, grandson Robert, sister Dale, and many nieces and nephews.

Services will be held on Thursday, October 10, 2024 at Barnegat Funeral Home, 841 West Bay Avenue, Barnegat, NJ.  Viewing will be from 9 to 11:30 a.m., with a short service following.  Interment will be at Fairview Cemetery in Westfield, NJ at 2 pm, immediately following, there will be a celebration of life to send Robert off joyfully.  (www.BarnegatFH.com)

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