Justus Robert "Bob" Garrison

Justus Robert "Bob" Garrison, a well-known and respected businessman, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side, March 26, 2025, at the age of 79. Described by those who knew him, Bob was “larger than life”, a “pillar to the community”, and was best known for his smile, sense of humor, hard work and grit, community involvement, and most importantly, his love for his family. He lived a life by Christian faith that he often mentioned was “worthwhile” and “full of love” and that he was thankful for all of those in it.

Born on August 9, 1945, in Danville, PA, Bob was a fiery red-headed boy with big dreams. He grew up in Carlisle, PA with his parents and sister, and as a young man, attended Staunton Military Academy in Staunton, VA. After losing both parents by the age of 16, he moved to Columbia Cross Roads, PA with his Uncle Mark and Aunt Dorothy on their farm where he realized his passion for farming. In the 70’s, that passion for farming turned into a drive to help farmers get access to the best machinery, parts, and service by starting Columbia Cross Roads Equipment with business partner and father-in-law, Howard Watkins. He worked tirelessly and was dedicated to serve his community and customers. You could say the “shop” was his second home, but his first home was with Ruth and his five girls on their farm on Porter Road. Bob and Ruth shared 61 years of marriage together, and Bob would often speak of his daughters in love, calling them by their name and number order of birth.

If you couldn’t find Bob at the shop, chances are you could find him at the Troy Faigrounds. Bob organized the spring and fall consignment auction which was held there and drew people in from several counties and even states. He loved being in his red truck yelling “yep” during the auctions. If it was the last week of July, he could be found at the Troy Fairgrounds for the Troy Fair where he was a member of the board for many years. He was a big supporter of 4H, always helping with the livestock auction during the fair.

Bob was all about agriculture and was a committed supporter of the FFA. Dedicated to his community, he served on the board for C&N Bank for several years. His love of golf started early in his youth when he won the Junior Club Championship at the Carlisle County Club. Additional hobbies include running equipment, playing cards, and bowling at Terrace Lanes where he was inducted into the Bowling Hall of Fame. In 2008, he was inducted into the Hall of Distinguished Alumni by the Troy High Alumni Association.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion, survived by his wife of 61 years, Ruth A. (Watkins) Garrison; his daughters, Linda Garrison (Ronny Slingerland) of Columbia Cross Roads, Molly Garrison-Best (Dennis) of Columbia Cross Roads, Jill Garrison (Art Kocan) of Sayre, PA, Jennifer Malehorn (James) of York, PA, and Kerri Garrison (Jeff Shedden) of Troy, PA. He was a proud grandfather to Amber Coyle (Dennis), Zachary Wetzel (Alexis Rider), and Brittany Boor (Jared), and a loving great-grandfather to Brooklyn Wetzel (Brody Space), Camden Coyle, Everett

Boor, Colt Boor, Lily Boor, Nolan Wetzel, Finley Wetzel, and their mother, Charity Jones. His joy continued with his great-great-grandson Colsen Space. He is also survived by his sister, Susan Garrison of Philadelphia, PA, as well as several nieces and nephews.

Bob's life was enriched by the companionship of his best friends, Brian Canfield, Dave Jackson, and Bernie Betke, who shared countless memorable moments with him.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Justus Anthony and Mary (Colpetzer) Garrison; his brothers, John Winner and Bill Garrison; his sister, Phyllis Sachs; and his cherished in-laws, Howard and Edith Watkins.

A celebration of Bob's life will be held at Alparon Park, Gate 3 Exhibit Halls, on Route 14 in Troy, PA, on April 13, 2025. Visitation will take place from 2:00-3:00 PM, followed by a celebration of his life at 3:00 PM with a formal sharing of memories. Arrangements have been entrusted to Gerald W. Vickery, Jr. Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc.

The family extends special thanks to Linda Thorp, Jessica Shipman, and Jimmy Smith for their loving care and support during Bob's final days.