Robert Pfendler Obituary

Robert Edwin Pfendler, known to all as Bob, passed away peacefully on December 26, 2024, at the age of 97. He was born on December 18, 1927, to the late Mary and Edwin Pfendler. Bob lived a full life marked by love for his family, his service to his country, and his deep faith.
Bob's love for his family was the cornerstone of his life. He married the love of his life, Sarah Joan Pfendler, on June 19, 1953. Together, they shared a remarkable 71 years of marriage, building a beautiful family, and raising their children in Oil City, PA. He was the beloved father of Diane (John) Masilunas, James (Sally Sunseri) Pfendler, Richard (Renee) Pfendler, and Robert (Lisa Conomy) Pfendler. Bob was also a devoted father-in-law to Kathy Pfendler and a cherished grandfather to David (Shaylee) Masilunas, Michael Masilunas, Annie Masilunas, Sean Pfendler, Laura (Michael) Maynard, Emily (Devin) Forgey, Chase (Kristie) Pfendler, Ryan (Jessica) Pfendler, and Caden Pfendler. He was the proud great-grandfather of Anton, Ethan, Isla, Andy, and Clare Masilunas, Colton and Kent Maynard, Quinn Forgey, Ezra, and Marigold Pfendler, and a new baby expected in January 2025.
He was preceded in death by his son, Thomas Pfendler and his sister Missy.
A proud member of the Greatest Generation, Bob served his country with honor and courage as an Air Traffic Controller in the Army Air Corps (later the Air Force) during World War II in the Pacific Theater. After his military service, Bob dedicated 43 years to his work as a Telephone Communication Technician for GTE (later Verizon), retiring after a long and successful career.
Bob was also a man of deep faith. He served for many years as a greeter and lector at St. Stephen's Church in Oil City, PA, where his commitment to his Catholic faith touched the lives of many in his community.
Bob's love for the outdoors was a defining part of his life. His passion for fishing and hunting, activities he enjoyed with his father, children, and grandchildren, was a testament to his adventurous spirit and love for nature. A dedicated member of Trout Unlimited, Bob cherished his time on the water. He was also deeply involved in the Boy Scouts, serving as Scout Master of Troop 11 in Oil City, PA, where he inspired and mentored countless young men.
Bob and Joan were avid travelers exploring the United States and international destinations. Their adventures together were a testament to their love for life and each other.
Bob's legacy is one of love, service, faith, and dedication. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Family and friends are welcome on Monday December 30, 2024 from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at Pittsburgh Cremation and Funeral Care, 3287 Washington Road, McMurray, PA 15317, 724-260-5546. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 12:30 pm at St. John XXIII, St. Benedict the Abbot, 120 Abington Drive, McMurray, PA 15317. A burial with full military honors will be held on 2:00 pm at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, 1158 Morgan Road, Bridgeville, PA 15017.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Trout Unlimited. P.O. Box 98166, Washington, DC 20090 or Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing, Inc. P.O. Box 695, LaPlata, MD 20646