LAUREL- Robert Thomas Groton, 82, of Laurel, passed away Wednesday, April 17, 2019 at Christiana Hospital after a brief illness. He was born in Parksley, Virginia, a son of the late George Thomas Groton and Maude Rich (Rew) Groton. Bob had a true passion for cars and in 1962 he opened Bob's Speed Shop in Laurel. Through the years he opened branches in Salisbury and several other locations. He was a very talented mechanic and was still working on cars up until the end. In his younger days he was very involved with drag racing and spent many summer nights at the US 13 Dragway & Speedway in Delmar. He loved animals, especially dogs and didn't like to see them go hungry or need anything. He will be remembered as a jokester with a wonderful sense of humor and a man who loved his work. He is survived by children, Sharon L. Lowe (Mike) of Laurel; a son, Robert Glenn Groton (Debbie) of Laurel; grandchildren, Autumn Ralph (Brennen), Chris Lowe (Jessica), Robbie Groton, Ryan Groton and Justin Groton; great grandchildren, Trevor, Brinlee, Brayden and Ava; siblings, Norma Boulter of Eden, Barry Groton (Margaret) of Salisbury, Betty Taylor (Larry) of Salisbury and Don Groton (Linda) of Laurel; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Susan Strick Groton, who passed in 2018. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, April 24, 2019 at 7:00 p.m. at Short Funeral Home in Delmar, where family and friends may call from 6:00 to 7:00. Arrangements are in the care of Short Funeral Home in Delmar. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.shortfh.com.