John Robert ‘Bob’ Ferguson – Clearwater, Fla., formerly of Belle Vernon
CLEARWATER, FLA., FORMERLY OF BELLE VERNON John Robert “Bob” Ferguson, 90, of Clearwater, Fla., formerly of Belle Vernon, passed away peace fully on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025, sur rounded by family. Born Dec. 25, 1934, in Charleroi, he was the son of the late James Pierce and Marguerite Rose Madigan Ferguson. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Theresa W. Ferguson; his second wife, Mary Lou O’Leary; and his sisters, Elizabeth “Betty” Johnson and Mary “Jill” DeLany. Bob is survived by his three children, Denise A. Ferguson of Cranberry Township; Lynne M. Nickolls and her husband Timothy of Belle Vernon; and Eric J. Ferguson and his wife Kimberly of Perryopolis. He is also survived by four grandchildren, Connor and Colby Ferguson and Issac and Abby Nickolls; as well as many nieces and nephews. A lifelong Catholic, Bob was a former member of St. Anne’s Church in Belle Vernon and attended Light of Christ Catholic Church in Clearwater. After moving to Clearwater in 2004 with Mary Lou, he enjoyed many friendships within the Top of The World Retirement Community. Bob lived a vibrant and joyful life, guided by his passions for candy making, bridge and travel. After earning a business degree, he served briefly in the Army at Fort Campbell as a radio operator and artillery specialist. Following his service, he worked as a draftsman at Lee Norse before joining his father at Gene and Boots Candies, the family business. After his father’s passing, Bob became president and owner, proudly carrying on its legacy. Even at 90, he continued sharing Gene and Boots chocolates with friends and caregivers. Bob was an accomplished bridge player, earning Life Master status at a young age and traveling widely to play and run tournaments. He continued playing online with his sister Betty, until just a few months ago. His love of travel took him around the world — from family trips to Hawaii to cruises with Mary Lou and relatives, culminating in an unforgettable world cruise. Bob truly saw the world, always with a smile. Visitation will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 25, 2025, at JAMES C STUMP FUNERAL HOME Inc., 580 Circle Drive, Rostraver Township, 724-929-7934, www.jamesstumpfuneralhome. com, where a blessing service will be held at 9:30 a.m Wednesday, followed at 10 a.m. by a funeral Mass at Church of St. Anne with the Rev. Joel Sayson presiding. Interment, with military honors, will follow in Sacred Heart Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to a charity of one’s choosing in Bob’s name.
