Robert Allen Hynes

Over the course of a 32 year career at Ohio University, Mr. Hynes worked as Director of Housing and later as Director of Residence and Campus Auxiliary Services. During this time, he also served as the first Chairman of the Administrative Senate, acted as a Chief Negotiator for one of Ohio University’s collective bargaining agreements with AFSCME 1699, and as a member of the Ohio University Inn Board of Directors. After retirement, he served as president of the Ohio University Emeriti Association.

Robert Allen Hynes was born on July 9, 1936, in Shaker Heights, Ohio, to Roy and Ida (Sandberg) Hynes. He graduated from Charles F. Brush High School. After serving two years in the United States Army, Mr. Hynes earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Government (1960) and a Master’s Degree in Education (1962), both from Ohio University.

As an undergraduate, he was a proud member of the Delta Pi chapter of Sigma Chi where he served as president. During his graduate work, he served as the chapter’s advisor.

After teaching briefly at Bedford High School, Mr. Hynes began his professional career at Ohio University in 1963 as Assistant to the Dean of Students and Director of the Internship Program. He then served as Dean of Men at the University of Miami (Coral Gables, Florida) before returning to Ohio University in 1968.

In addition to his various roles at Ohio University, Mr. Hynes also served in numerous community service capacities, including as a local board member of the Selective Service System, the Athens City School Board, Athens City Recreation Board, and Athens Educational Foundation.

A passionate gardener, runner, and dog lover, he leaves behind countless trees, bushes, shrubs, and flowers across Ohio. Family and friends will miss his gregarious personality, positive outlook, big heart, and selflessness.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years (Donna), two sons and four grandchildren: Patrick R. (Karen) and Justin and Noah of The Plains, Ohio, and Scott R. (Loren) and Gwen and Holden of Boston, Massachusetts.

Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to:

Jefferson Township Fire Department

6767 Havens Corner Road

Blacklick, OH 43004