Robert “Bob” Ferrier, of Erie, Pennsylvania, peacefully passed away on Saturday, January 3, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Bob was best known for his devotion to his family, his stewardship of Ferrier’s Hardware, his deep love for his hometown of Erie, and his incredible sense of humor that stayed with us until the very end. His friendship and generosity were legendary.

Bob was born in Erie on January 18, 1940, the son of William F. and Marjorie Stafford Ferrier. He graduated from McDowell High School, attended Avon Old Farms School in Avon, CT, and Franklin & Marshall College in Lancaster, PA. He also proudly served two years in the U.S. Army.

The two most defining events in Bob’s life—marrying his best friend Christie and purchasing Ferrier’s Hardware from his father—shaped the next 70 years of his life and work. Together, Bob and Christie raised five children and, with hearts big enough for more, welcomed a late sixth into their family. Bob was a talented athlete and enjoyed teaching his children how to play hockey, ski, ride motorcycles, and play golf.

While being a father was one of his greatest joys, becoming a grandfather brought him even deeper happiness. Known affectionately as “Papa,” Bob cherished every moment with his grandchildren and was endlessly proud of each of them. He loved dressing up with them around the holidays as Papa Christmas complete with bells on both hat and elf shoes.

To keep family close, Bob and Christie purchased a second home in Findley Lake, NY, a place where family and friends could gather. Affectionately known as “The Island,” it became the backdrop for countless memories—new experiences, cherished traditions, and endless laughter that will live on for a lifetime like The Island Olympics, Sweet 16 Birthday and Engagement parties, 4th of July Fireworks and so much more.

Bob’s service to the Erie community reflected his deep sense of duty, passion for giving back, and his lifelong commitment to making Erie the best place to live and raise a family. One of Bob’s earliest community service jobs was as a Lake Erie Dive Volunteer. He responded to water emergencies and conducted underwater search and recovery for victims and property in the bay. He was also chosen to serve as the youngest President of the NWPA & Atlantic Seaboard Hardware Association.

He served on the Boards of Directors or Trustees for Kahkwa Club, Hamot Health Systems, St. Vincent Health Center, WQLN Public Media, the Erie Zoological Society, and the Erie Playhouse. He was also a steadfast supporter of Christie’s philanthropic work, cheering her on as she took on leadership roles at the Philharmonic. And while classical music wasn’t exactly his favorite genre, it did offer him the perfect chance to sit quietly, look attentive—and discreetly check in on the Cleveland Browns.

His civic and social memberships were equally varied and meaningful. Bob was active with the Erie Redevelopment Authority, Rotary, Erie Zem Zem Shriners, Lawrence Lodge No. 708, the Scottish Rite Bodies Valley of Erie—where he was known to play the bagpipes in full kilt attire—the Erie Maennerchor Club, the Erie Yacht Club, the Erie Club, and the Aviation Club.

Bob loved to travel and embraced every journey as an adventure. He explored much of the world with both friends and family, creating unforgettable memories along the way. His adventures included ski trips to Colorado, white-water rafting down the Salmon River in Idaho, biking expeditions through Australia, New Zealand, Vietnam, and France, and island-hopping in the Caribbean. He searched for the Loch Ness monster in Scotland, walked with lions in Zambia, and even sat on the edge of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.

His happiest moments though, were spent on the deck of his home, keeping a watchful eye on kids and grandkids playing on the beach, eagles soaring—or “kiting,” as he liked to say—on the wind over his shoreline and soaking in those unforgettable Erie sunsets. From that deck, he had the best seat in town—and he knew it. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family and all those who loved him. Rest In Peace Papa.

In addition to his parents, Bob is preceded in death by his sister Beverly Moore of California. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Christie Bliss Ferrier; three daughters, Tracy Ferrier of Fairview, Colby Ferrier Tucker (John Tucker) of Fairview, Letitia Ferrier Webster (Jason Webster) of Salt Lake City; three sons, Tim Ferrier of Charlotte, Drew Ferrier of Erie, and Peter Scobell (Heather Scobell) of Fairview; one sister, Dr. Barbara Ferrier of Pittsburgh, and nine grandchildren: Chad and Alexa Tucker, Jackson and Quinn Webster, Leena, Walker, and Tanner Scobell, and Jacob and Rachel Ferrier.

Friends may call on the family at one of Bob’s favorite places: the Kahkwa Club, 3300 Kahkwa Club Rd., Erie, PA on Saturday, January 10th . Please arrive between 12:00—12:45pm. The service will begin promptly at 1:00pm. Guests are welcome to stay after the service to pay their respects to the family and celebrate Bob’s life.

In lieu of flowers, gifts can be made in his honor to the Erie Zoo, 423 W. 38th Street, Erie, PA 16508.

Internment in Laurel Hill Cemetery will be private.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Robert Ferrier, please visit our flower store.