Robert Lloyd DeGroat, Jr.

Robert Lloyd DeGroat, Jr., famously known far and wide as "Puppy", rode off to his eternal rest Saturday afternoon, October 24th. He was born October 27, 1947 in Binghamton, NY, the middle of three children to Robert Lloyd, Sr. and Mary Hazel (Spooner) DeGroat. Robert grew up in New Orleans, a bike enthusiast frm the get-go. He purchased his first Harley when he was just 16 years old, and still owned it when he passed away. There just isn't enough space available here to properly and fully tell this story. Robert dropped out of high school, obtained his GED and went on to obtain a Bachelors in American History from Blackhills State University. He went to work for Harley Davidson at a young age, owning at least seven shops and two dealerships over the years in the various places he has lived. He obtained the nickname "Puppy" along the way, which is how most people knew him. He got into building custom bikes, building hundreds if not thousands. Puppy was a devout Christian and active member of New Hope Baptist Church. A storied life to say the least, Puppy has been on Geraldo, is very widely known to Harley enthusiasts, retired from the Sundowners in Utah, and a proud member of the CMA. You have no doubt passed, or been passed by him, somewhere along the roadways, perhaps even while he was standing on his bike. Puppy will be so fondly remembered and widely missed by untold numbers of friends, fellow Harley owners and others who knew and loved him. He was preceded by his parents, Robert & Mary DeGroat, Sr. Left to cherish his memories are: his loving wife of over 32 years, Jeanette "Sunshine" DeGroat; sons Harley and Michael, and daughter Angie DeGroat, all of Arizona, a sister Karen Ricker, brother Tommy DeGroat, with four additional children, several grandchildren, and a few nieces and nephews scattered around to boot. There is truly no way to grasp the number of lives he has touched in his life, but we are certain that his memories will live on in the hearts and minds of so many. His wishes were to be cremated, which his family is honoring. A memorial service may be held at a later date. Trinity Funeral Services is honored to serve the DeGroat family, asking everyone to please keep Sunshine and all the family in your thoughts and prayers over the coming days.

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