Robert W. Cordrey

"It doesn't take much to live good", this was the mantra of Robert W. Cordrey, who passed away on November 15, 2017at the age of 91, surrounded by his family.

 Bob grew up in Wilmington, DE and graduated from P.S. DuPont High School.  His diploma was forwarded to him at Parris Island in South Carolina where he was completing basic training with the U.S. Marine Corps.  He was later deployed to Bouganville in the South Pacific theatre.  Bob was indeed a proud member of the "Greatest Generation".

 After World War II, he received a business degree from Goldey-Beacom College and began a two year career in New York CIty as a Jazz Musician playing his beloved saxaphone.  His musical career in the “Big Apple” primarily ended because he had met and married the love of his life Peggy Hedley.  They were married for 50 wonderful years until Peg’s death in 1999.

Upon returning to Wilmington, Bob personally constructed their home in Glen Bernie Estates and began a 32 year career as a salesman with Delaware Importers.  A few years later he became Scoutmaster of Troop 86 in Sherwood Park,  and over the next 18 years helped to grow the membership to over 160 registered scouts - the largest troop in Delaware at the time.

In his leisure time, Bob enjoyed skiing, hiking and spent 34 years at Seashore Campsites in Cape May, NJ with Peg and the family.  His other loves were good books, music, brandy and his favorite pipe.  Over the last five years, Bob has lived under the magnificent care and auspices of Somerford House in Newark, Delaware.

By far, Bob’s most cherished moments were with Peg, his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He is survived by his son, Robert (Sharon) and daughter, Chrisie.  He also leaves behind five grandchildren, Keith(Lexie), Jeffrey (Jen), Kaci, Kelli (Kevin) and Oliver and seven great grandchildren, Rebecca, Avery, Kate, Carley, Jace, Savannah and Sawyer.  Survived also by daughter, Susan Shrewsbury.

Services will be private.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to to the Del-Mar-Va Council BSA, 100 W. 10th Street, Suite 915, Wilmington, DE 19801.

To offer condolences, please visit:  gebhartfuneralhomes.com 302.328.2312