Birth date: Nov 18, 1947 Death date: Jun 29, 2026
Joseph Robert "Bob" Degen, age 78, of Lewes, Delaware, passed into the arms of Jesus on Monday, June 29, 2026. He was born November 18th, 1947, to the late, Edward F. Degen, Sr. and Dorothy M. Condon (Jennings), in Abington, PA. Read Obituary
We said goodbye to great man, pastor, teacher and friend today. The world is much dimmer because of that goodbye. Still acclimating to the idea that he won’t be on the phone to answer my impromptu bible questions and to explain theology like a master. I’ll so miss the spiritual conversations… and I’ll always admire how he never thought any question was dumb and he always found time to personally do research when the answer needed more than a quick response. We all have certain people on speed dial for various reasons .. and Bob was one of mine.. affectionately called my personal Pocket Pastor. Bob went far beyond Preacher, he didn’t preach at you, he talked, explained and gave you reason to explore.. he showed the possibilities of what the Word could do… Bob nurtured curiosity; and was the best of TEACHERS. God truly gifted Bob and I for one am glad he discovered that calling so we all could benefit from his knowledge and love for Jesus Christ.
Bob touched the heart of anyone who was ever blessed with the opportunity to meet him. He meant so much more than a next-door neighbor to our family than he probably ever realized. Bob had a presence about him that gave us a feeling of safety. As was often said in our house when he and Cathie traveled or went out for the day, “All is right in the world - Bob’s back.” He was always there to check on our house, the kids, pets - whatever we asked and sometimes, we didn’t have to ask. Bob helped out more than once to pick up Tanner from school, Tobi from a school dance, wait for a pizza to be delivered for the kids if we weren’t home keeping them safe from strangers- whatever is was he was always happy to help. He and Cathie invited me to church and Bible study when I was alone one weekend - I never forgot that. We spent many evenings enjoying a fire in their yard, visits every Christmas. He and Cathie came to watch Tobi play volleyball and enjoyed 4th of July amateur fireworks displays in our backyard. The hard part will be for our sweet lab Coors to understand Bob won’t be waiting and asking to have a visit, handing him handfuls of dog treats. Coors perked up at the mention of the name “Bob” and rushed to wait at his garage door. He still continues to sit and wait for Bob now. Bob touched everyone and every soul he ever encountered. Bob - you are missed. You were an angel on Earth, and we know you’ll continue to watch over us from above.
Bob was a great guy! Always spoke wisdom, and kindness. Whenever you were greeted by him he always had a smile on his face, a firm handshake, and followed by a a good slap on the shoulder. He will be deeply missed by those whose life he touched.
On behalf of the Bishop McDevitt family, we offer our condolences to Bob's family and friends. May his memory be a blessing to all who knew him. Rest in Peace Lancer. 💛🤍
Love you Poppop
Bob was such an incredible example of what it looks like to live for Jesus. He was such a genuinely kind person. His wisdom was such a gift, and it was one that he shared with others so well, and so happily. We down here grieve such a loss but oh what a gain for Bob to rest in peace with our Lord and savior ❤️🙏🏻 Prayers and love to his whole family.
Bob was a knowledgeable mentor, steadfast leader and compassionate friend. He always made time for people and cared about their soul more than the clock. He demonstrated how to shine for Jesus in everyday moments and I hope to pour into others like he did. You are missed, Bob.
