Robert Rhody

Robert E. Rhody of Greensburg, PA died Wednesday, February 8, 2023 at home.  He was born October 26, 1936 in Patton, PA to Kenneth and Rose (Zern) Rhody.  Often in his early years he was alongside his father helping with the Rhody Lumber Co. Bob was known as the Roy Rogers of his high school class, he was passionate about horseback riding. He joined the Patton Fire Dept at age 15. Throughout his childhood years, he created endless memories paling around Patton with his many friends and siblings.

At age 17 he joined the Navy where he served on the Destroyer USS William M. Wood.  He then attended St Francis College where he met his future wife of 55 years, Mary.  He graduated with an Electrical Engineering Degree from Penn State in 1961.  He immediately gained employment with Allegheny Power and remained employed until his retirement at age 59.  He embraced futures planning engineering and energy production throughout his career.

Bob was a pillar in the Greensburg community where he was involved in the Greensburg Fire Dept as a Fire Fighter, Captain of Hose Company #1 and Instructor of Fire Fighter Probie School.  In 2021 he received the Humanitarian of the Year Award.   In addition, he volunteered with the Boy Scouts of America, The American Red Cross where he received the Clara Barton Award, enjoyed being a member of the Hutch’s “Dancing Bears” and the Aerobic Center.  Bob enjoyed singing tenor for many years in the Blessed Sacrament Cathedral Choir.

Bob had many outdoor interests including his Camp (B&K Chalet), hunting, fishing, running, traveling, motorcycle touring, exploring the old railroads & the Pennsylvania Canals, Penn State football & Steelers games.  However, his most loving times were well spent with his family and many friends.  His family will affectionately remember his endless patience, well-received advice and witty sense of humor.  His well-versed prayers were the highlight of family meals and gatherings.

Bob was predeceased by his parents, Kenneth and Rose (Zern) Rhody, his first wife, Mary (DuBreucq), sister, Barbara Watt and brother, James Rhody.

He is survived by his second wife, Kathleen Flanigan; his children, Robert W. (Daniela), Michael (Sheri), Margaret (Scott) Gray, Lawrence (Karen),  Timothy (Jody), Peter (Christiann) Flanigan, Sean (Theresa) Flanigan and Maryrose (Christopher) Porter;  grandchildren include, Robert C., Thomas Aebi, Elizabeth (Andrew) Elliott, Jessica (Shawn) Revels, Adam (Paige) Gray, Samantha (Vincent) Casey, McKenzie, Anna, Justin, Brandon, Patrick (Jess), Rogue, Kiera Flanigan, Bridie Flanigan, Meaghan (Derek) Flanigan, Brenna Flanigan, Maeve Flanigan, Auden Porter, Endymion Porter; 10 great grandchildren; his siblings, Kenneth (Joan), Mary Lou (Dale) Reber and Roseanne (Wayne) Wynn; along with many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends will be received on Monday, February 13th from 2-4pm and 6-8pm at KEPPLE-GRAFT Funeral Home 524 N. Main Street, Greensburg. A fireman’s memorial service will be held on Monday at 7pm in the funeral home by Greensburg Volunteer Fire Department. A funeral mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, February 14th at 9:30am in Blessed Sacrament Cathedral 300 N. Main Street, Greensburg. Everyone is asked to go directly to the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Juvenile Diabetes Association. For online condolences, please visit www.kepplegraft.com.