Mercer, Pennsylvania - Robert L. Gilkey, 98, of Mercer, passed away on Jan. 30, 2026. Bob was born on June 22, 1927, to the late Ralph and Martha Parshall Gilkey in West Middlesex.

Bob married Eleen Zahariou on Aug. 26, 1954, who preceded him in death. He joined the Navy in 1945 and graduated from Westminster College with a degree in Political Science.

Bob worked in the steel industry for many years. In 1983, Bob founded Pennsylvania Rail Car Co. in Mercer. This became his last job and over the years Bob grew the business with many valuable employees who are friends and family still at the plant to this day.

Bob and Eleen had a long and happy retirement and enjoyed traveling to many lovely places. One of Bob's favorites that he often talked about was a trip to New Zealand.

Anyone who knew Bob knew how kind and generous he was. His family looks forward to seeing him again in Paradise as described in the Bible at Revelations 21:4,5 which reads, "And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, death will be no more neither mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed way. Look! I am making all things new... these words are faithful and true."

Survivors include daughter, Melinda (Sonny) Raso, Pittsburgh; son, Robert "Rob" (Rebecca) Gilkey, Mercer; two grandchildren, Cheyenne Gilkey, Mercer, and Robby (Hannah) Gilkey, Hermitage; and several nieces and nephews.