Robert E. Hylant Jr.

1947 - 2025

Robert E. Hylant, Jr.

January 4, 1947 - July 20, 2025

Robert E. Hylant, Jr., "Bob," passed away unexpectedly on July 20, 2025, in Gulf Coast Hospital, Fort Myers, Florida. He was born in Toledo, Ohio, on January 4, 1947, as the eldest of nine children to Jeanne and Robert E. Hylant, Sr.

Bob attended Gesu Catholic Grade School and St. Francis de Sales High School. After graduating from the University of Toledo, he married Janet Pavlica and began working in the construction industry with his father-in-law, spending time first in Florida and then Colorado.

In 1974, Bob married Vicki Acker and settled in Howell, Michigan, where they raised their two sons, Rob and David, along with Vicki's sons, Michael and Von. Bob overcame his battle with alcoholism in 1983-a turning point that shaped the rest of his life. For 42 years, he led by example, showing others what recovery, resilience, and grace could look like.

With renewed focus, Bob built a successful career in the insurance industry, eventually working for Hylant, the family business. Along the way, he re-discovered the joy of golfing, fishing, telling stories, and what he fondly called "piddling"-a word that meant everything and nothing, depending on the day.

In 2006, Bob married Trudy Heck; retired shortly thereafter, and they relocated to Pine Island, Florida-"Florida's only tropical island," as Bob proudly (and frequently) noted. Even in "retirement," Bob stayed active, working at a local fishing outfitter, Pine Island Bait & Tackle, where he dispensed advice, shared stories, and welcomed everyone with a smile. Bob was so good at this, when the store changed hands, the new owner only agreed to the deal if Bob stayed on.

Bob was a kind soul, endlessly generous, and a natural storyteller. Nicknamed "Britannica Bob" by those who knew him best, he could rattle off obscure facts-mostly useless, always entertaining. His true passion was fishing, whether it was Panfish, Bass, Redfish, or Tarpon – didn't matter, just as long as he was with family and friends. Once you stepped into Bob's boat, you weren't just going fishing-you were in his living room! There was always more conversation than bait, more jokes than snacks, and more tall tales than fish-though Bob somehow always caught his fair share.

He was someone who didn't need much: a tank of gas, a thermos of coffee, and good company were more than enough. He offered wisdom freely, and laughter without reservation. Bob was deeply loved, and he will be missed more than words can say.

Bob is survived by his wife, Trudy; sons, Rob (Wendy) and David (Clare); grandchildren, Zoe, Emerson, CJ, and David; stepsons, Mike (Kathy) and Von (Kristine) Acker; siblings, Pat (Ann), Dan (Carol), Steve (Karen), Sandra (Mark), Jeannie (Tom), Mike (Tina), and Richard (Clare); brother-in-law, Geof Tracy; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Jeanne Hylant; and his sister, Polly Tracy.

A private family gathering will be held, with a celebration of Bob's life to be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Francis de Sales School Foundation, in Toledo, in support of the Hylant Family Memorial Scholarship to honor Bob's legacy of strength, faith, and family.