Robert Joseph "Bob" Ennis

Robert J. Ennis, fondly known as Bob or Robert J., passed away peacefully on January 25th, 2025. He was born on June 29, 1932, in Jamaica, New York, to Arthur and Carolyn Ennis. Bob grew up in Jamaica and entered Immaculate Conception Seminary in n1952. Though he had a deep love for trains and often envisioned himself as a conductor or engineer, his true calling was the priesthood. He was ordained as a Catholic priest in 1958 and began his ministry at Holy Family Perish in Brooklyn, New York, where he served from 1958 to 1964.
In 1964, Bob answered a new calling and became an Army Chaplain, serving his country with dedication for nearly 30 years, serving during Vietnam War. Bob always made sure to wear his red socks, even when dressed in military uniform- a tradition he started while stationed in Alaska to brighten the darkness of the long winter days. During his long career, Bob received the Legion of Merit award, his highest honor. His commitment to faith, service, and compassion touched countless lives throughout his military career.
In 1993, Robert J. embraced a new chapter of his life by marrying Judith Anne Daley on New Years Day. Their years together were filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Robert J. had an unmistakable laugh and kindness that knew no bounds. He was a voracious reader of history, an avid gardener, and an enthusiastic traveler. Robert J. approached life with an infectious zest- whether exploring new places, like going down the slides in Hawaii, or enjoying simple moments, like sitting with Judy in their morning room after a few moments of prayer.
Bob is proceeded in death by his parents, Arthur and Carolyn Ennis, his brother Arthur Ennis, and his sisters Carol Bocain and Jean Engel. He is survived by his nieces and nephews Jeanne (John) Koonz, Tom Engel, Fran (walter) Hulsen, and Mark Bocain, along with many great-nieces and great-nephews.
Bob's service will be held February 11th at Sacred Heart Church (2021 W. Pikes Peak Avenue) at 10:00 AM. A burial will take place at Calverton National Cemetery, New York at a later date. His legacy of warmth, generosity, and faith will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
In honor of his spirit of giving, donations can be made to The Marian House Soup Kitchen in Colorado Springs (14 W. Bijou St. Colorado Springs, CO 80903) or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html