Robert James "Bob" Heller

Robert James “Bob” Heller, 81, of Ocala, Florida, passed away on Monday, December 1, 2025.

Born in Oak Park, Illinois, in 1944, Bob was the son of James Wallace and Ann Patricia Heller. He was preceded in death by his brother, John W. Heller.

Bob was a gifted musician and accomplished clarinetist with a lifelong love of classical and jazz music. He studied music at the University of Nevada, Reno, and toured Europe as a member of the United States Armed Forces NORAD Band. Throughout his life he remained devoted to his craft, performing with several ensembles, including the Southwest Symphony in St. George, Utah.

In his professional career, Bob became a respected leader in the casino industry. He successfully managed and opened casinos across the United States—including in Nevada, Iowa, Connecticut, and Mississippi—and also guided major casino openings internationally in Argentina and Uruguay. He recently completed and published a book about some of his experiences in the casino industry.

Bob had a soft spot in his heart for animals, especially dogs. He was rarely seen without the faithful companionship of his beloved pooch, Forte, whom he walked several times a day through his Silver Springs Shores, Florida neighborhood.

He retired to Ocala in 2014 with his wife of 37 years, Maureen Susan Heller, who survives him. He is also survived by his stepdaughter, Dr. Melissa Scholes-Williams, and son-in-law, Dr. Brian Williams; grandsons Archer and Griffin Williams of Jackson, Mississippi; granddaughter Sadie Gregory of Durham, North Carolina, and grandchild Rowan Gregory of Binghamton, New York.

Bob will be remembered for his talent, gentle spirit, and deep devotion to his wife and the animals who brought joy to his life.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to any animal shelter in Ocala in recognition of Bob’s deep love for animals.