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Missing Elkridge Man Among Those Killed On Amtrak 188

PHILADELPHIA (WJZ)—A Maryland man was among those killed in Tuesday's deadly Amtrak derailment bound for New York.

Bob Gildersleeve, 45, was first reported missing by his family after they lost contact with him following the derailment on Tuesday night.

Bob's wife Danna Leiner Gildersleeve confirmed the tragic death on Thursday afternoon.

"He has been my best friend for 29 years and we just celebrated our 18th wedding anniversary and Mother's day on Sunday," said Danna Leiner Gildersleeve. "He is a remarkable Dad to our daughter Ryan and son Marc. He is a loving son, brother and is definitely the 'fun' Uncle to his nieces and nephews.  He is funny and sarcastic and lights up any room with his presence, humor and enthusiasm."

Gildersleeve was the vice president of corporate accounts for the Towson-based Ecolab--dedicating 22 years to the company.

Doug Baker, Ecolab chairman and CEO expressed, his deepest condolences on behalf of the company. "We are deeply saddened by the loss of our friend and colleague. Bob was with Ecolab for 22 years, most recently as vice president of Corporate Accounts for our Institutional business in North America. Bob was an exceptional leader and was instrumental to our success. We will greatly miss him, and our thoughts go out to his beloved family members and friends."

Gildersleeve's family reports that he boarded the train at Penn Station in Baltimore Tuesday night, just minutes after dropping off his son at lacrosse practice.

The Maryland native was on of the 243 people aboard the train Tuesday night--officials saying all passengers are now accounted for in a press conference Thursday.

"Our hearts are broken and we can't imagine a life without him. We will miss him with all our heart," said Bob's wife.

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