Robert “Rob” George Wells, 72, passed away peacefully from his battle with cancer and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis on April 14, 2025, surrounded by family.
A brilliant lawyer, devoted family man, and the kind of person who could quote case law and classic movies with equal flair, Rob spent his life fighting the good fight—in the courtroom, at the dinner table, and for every dog who ever deserved an extra treat.
Rob was born in Ilion, NY to George and Margaret Wells. He was raised there with his older brother Dave. Rob became an Eagle Scout before he left for college at Syracuse University. After graduating he attended Oklahoma City University School of Law before being admitted to the New York Bar in 1978.
Over the course of a distinguished 45-year career, Rob served in the United States District Courts, the Second Circuit Court of Appeals, and all levels of New York State Courts. A nationally respected criminal defense attorney, he was trained at Gerry Spence’s Trial Lawyers College and served as President of the New York State Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. He was a passionate educator—teaching legal practices across the country, mentoring young attorneys, and lecturing at Syracuse University College of Law. His expertise was also shared on Court TV, in legal publications, and on the radio program Equal Footing. Whether in the courtroom or the classroom, Rob was a tireless advocate for justice and integrity. Rob is survived by the love of his life, Ceil, his loving wife and dance partner. He also leaves behind his son Andrew (Denielle), daughter Missy (David Zhang), stepdaughter Nicole Ritchie, and granddaughters Isabella and Hanna — each of whom carry on his sense of humor, strong work ethic, and love of Disney, the Adirondacks, and animals.
Rob was also the proud dog dad of the adorable Adi and Dax, two puppies who adored him for his warmth, walks, and willingness to share his snacks.
He is predeceased by his father George, mother Margaret, and brother David—no doubt already reunited and retelling family legends with their usual mix of accuracy and embellishment.
To know Rob was to know loyalty, laughter, and the comfort of having someone in your corner—whether you needed legal advice or just someone to share jokes with. He was thoughtful, witty, stubborn in all the best ways, and gave the kind of hugs that made you feel like everything would be okay.
A celebration of Rob’s life will be held at Camp Brockway in Pratt’s Falls State Park on Sunday July 27 from 2-6pm, where loved ones are invited to share stories, memories, and—if they’re feeling brave—try to tell a joke he hadn’t already heard.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Rob by petting your dog a little longer, standing up for someone who needs it, or cracking a good (or terrible) pun in his name. If you would like to donate to a charity in Rob’s memory, please consider Legal Services of Central New York, the Patient Advocate Network Foundation, or Helping Hounds Dog Rescue.
He may have left the courtroom, but his closing arguments—of love, integrity, and a life well lived—will echo for generations.