Robert J. Fantazier

Robert Joseph Fantazier, age 78, of Bellevue, Pennsylvania passed away quietly at home on August 2, 2021 surrounded by his wife and children. Robert, known and loved as “Bob,” was born on March 25, 1943 in East Pittsburgh, PA to the late Michael and Sue (Buranosky) Fantazier. A 1961 graduate of St. Thomas High School in Braddock, PA, he served honorably in the United States Army, and then attended Duquesne University, where he met his college sweetheart and lifelong best friend, Denise (Steinbaugh). They married on December 26, 1969 in the Duquesne University Chapel. Bob led a fulfilling life that was driven by art, invention, nature and love for his family.

Bob was the epitome of integrity, courage, kindness and compassion. He was the “Mayor of Clinton Place,” aka “The Sidewalk Philosopher.” He founded the semi-regular kitchen-speakeasy known as the “Bellevue Ballroom,” 42 years after prohibition ended. A master kite builder, rocket launcher, and grapevine grower, Bob also excelled in acting as the original “human backup camera” safely guiding all visitors out of his driveway.

A talented and accomplished artist, sculptor and inventor, Bob created a 13 foot long “Praying Mantis” wooden sculpture, which is exhibited at the North Museum of Science & Nature in Lancaster, PA. He was the editor of "Pittsburgh – The Port to the West" book. Bob was an active member of the Lone Pine Rod and Gun Club, and volunteered with the Depreciation Lands Museum.

His extraordinary career in graphic arts spanned decades in Pittsburgh. Bob was the founder and owner of the Anachronistic Press, a commercial art studio, that later became Fantazier Creative, and then retired from 15 years as a Communication Designer at the Carnegie Mellon University Software Engineering Institute.

Bob was an amazing father to: Aimee Fantazier (husband Dennis Hungerman), Christopher (wife Jill Rinozzi) and Jonathan (fiance’ Jennifer Trout).He will be greatly missed by his adoring grandchildren: Max Fantazier Lasky and Leah Eileen Hungerman who lovingly called him “GranBob”, and were the apples of his eyes. Bob’s brother Richard (Sharon) Fantazier of Lancaster, sister Susan Friese of Renovo, and late brother Phillip (Anna) Fantazier of Bethel Park were always in his heart. Bob will also be missed by many beloved nieces, nephews, and neighbors.

Friends and family are welcomed at: H.P. Brandt Funeral Home, 1032 Perry Highway, Pittsburgh, PA 15237 on Thursday, August 5, 2021 from 10:00 to 11:00 AM. Bob’s funeral service at 11:00 AM will be officiated by his cousin, Fr. Dennis Buranosky. Burial procession to his internment at Allegheny Cemetery, 4737 Butler Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15201, with full military honors, will follow.