Robert "Rob" Giard

In Loving Memory of Robert “Rob” Giard
Robert “Rob” Giard, born on January 20, 1959, in Hoboken, NJ, was the cherished son of Patricia and Robert Giard, who he is predeceased by, of Fair Haven, NJ. He graduated from Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School in 1977, where he excelled both academically and athletically. Rob won numerous awards in baseball and football. It was Rob’s prowess on the football field that earned him a place in the Hall of Fame in 1989 for his outstanding performance as a linebacker/noseguard. He earned the prestigious Lombardi Award in his senior year, highlighting his discipline and talent. He received multiple full scholarship offers to play football at well-known institutions, including Wagner, Fairleigh Dickinson University, Montclair, and Alabama.  He chose Montclair to stay close to family.  Rob excelled in his academics and graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Economics.
After graduation, he quickly advanced at a prestigious insurance company in New York City. After six months, he realized the rat race wasn’t for him and he left to join his father as a painting contractor.
Rob continued his love of playing ball joining multiple Jersey Shore softball teams and continuing to hold onto his nickname “Bone Crusher” from his hard hits and home runs at bat.
On July 31, 1993, Rob married the love of his life, Candy, after a whirlwind romance of just four months. Their instant and lasting bond led them on a journey of love and devotion. From the day they married, they vowed to keep their marriage “Always You & Me.”  No one else mattered.  Rob found a way to make Candy laugh and feel loved and safe every day. His hugs and laughter will be sorely missed.
In 2002, they moved from Belford, NJ, to Captain’s Cove on the Eastern Shore of Virginia, where they worked with an architect to draw up plans and a custom builder to build their forever dream home.
Rob began working as a security officer for his community, forming enduring friendships with his colleagues. He quickly ascended to the position of Director of Facilities. He retired on January 21, 2021.
Rob took immense pride in loving and caring for his beloved wife and their beautiful puppy, Barney. He was a kind and caring individual who found joy in finding laughter, appreciating his blessings, giving/paying it forward, and praying for others. His powerful sense of faith was shared with his wife and friends, and he was known for his unwavering support and generosity.
Rob was regarded by his friends as a member of their family, and he will be missed by all who knew him. He faced his battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) with the heart of a true warrior, inspiring those around him with his courage and resilience. Rob Giard passed away on February 28, 2025.
He leaves behind a sister, Patricia Keleher, a brother, Peter Giard, and a sweet sister-in-law, Sherryl Rutan, as well as loving nephews, nieces, cousins, aunts, and uncles.  These special relationships always boosted his spirits.
Rest in peace, dear Rob. You made us all proud, and your memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved you.
Services entrusted to Salyer Funeral Home on Chincoteague Island, VA. Condolences may be made online at www.salyerfh.com

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