Robert was modest, quiet and observant, taking in everything around him. Most folks would say that Robert was shy until they got to know him. Those who were privileged to know him well learned that he was a solid, good friend. He was a friendly person who truly cared about those around him. Robert was the epitome of a family man.
Robert was born on October 11, 1932 at home in Scranton, Pennsylvania. He was the son of George and Martha Ettinger. Robert was raised in Scranton, Pennsylvania and Hoboken, New Jersey. Robert was raised with five siblings. He had four older siblings, Ruth, Iris, Claire, and George, and one younger sibling, Carolyn. Robert was constantly involved in activities with his family. He was raised Lutheran, and in his spare time he liked to play baseball.
Robert graduated from Demarest High School in 1950. His love of baseball continued through his high school years and carried over into adulthood.
Love can’t be defined but must be experienced. That was so true for Robert. On May 26, 1956 Robert married Joan Valls at Our Lady of Grace of Hoboken, New Jersey. He was totally committed to Joan and they shared a relationship that everyone would envy.
Robert was a wonderful father to his children. He gave unconditionally to his family. He was a hard worker to make sure his family had everything and anything they needed. He was supportive in all of his children's hobbies and pursuits and tried hard to never miss an opportunity to cheer them on and spend quality time with them. Robert was blessed with two children, one daughter, Frances, and one son, Robert. He was also blessed with two grandchildren, Anthony and Robert.
Robert worked hard for his family as a journey man Lithographer in New York City for fourty years in the printing industry.
Robert was an Army veteran. He was stationed in Germany during the Koren conflict. Through his hard work and dedication, he achieved the rank of Private First Class and was honorably discharged.
Robert was a huge New York Yankees fan for the last seventy five years. He enjoyed watching the Bronx Bombers whenever he got the opportunity.
Robert and Joan's favorite vacation included going to Las Vegas, Nevada with a group of friends every year.
When Robert's retirement finally arrived in 1995, he was well prepared. After losing Joan, his wife of forty years, his new life involved relocating to Las Vegas, Nevada, then Overland Park, Kansas. In retirement, he found new pleasure in being a Hockey Grandpa! He was active in his grandson Tony's life, taking on the active roll of "Dad". Never missing an opportunity to be at the hockey rink with his grandson. After Tony graduated high school, he found a new furry friend in Ozzy, the family Siberian Husky.
Robert passed away on January 15, 2018 at home surrounded by his loved ones. He is survived by his daughter, Frances, his son-in-law, Shawn, his grandchildren, Anthony and Robert, his sister, Carolyn, his niece, Kathleen (Thomas), and great nephews, Patrick and Ryan. Robert also leaves behind an extensive family and many friends to cherish his memory. Services were held at Palm Northwest Mortuary in Las Vegas, Nevada. Robert was laid to rest in Palm Northwest Cemetery in Las Vegas, Nevada.
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