Robert P. Ditzenberger, 77, a resident of 309-9th Street, Franklin died peacefully at 2:49 PM Thursday, September 4, 2014 in UPMC-Presbyterian Hospital in Pittsburgh; with his loving family by his side, following a brief illness.
He was born February 28, 1937 in Franklin, a beloved son of the late: Robert W. and Frances Irene Phillips Ditzenberger.
He was a 1955 graduate of Franklin High School.
Mr. Ditzenberger proudly served his country for more than 8 years as a member of The United States National Guard.
Bob began his career with the U.S. Postal Service as a clerk at the U.S. Post Office in Franklin. He worked his way up through the years to U.S. Postmaster. He served for many years in that capacity at the U.S. Post Office of Cooperstown, PA, Madison, WVA and finally at Richlands, VA; before retiring. He had also worked in various capacities for many years as well, at PennAire Tire Company of Franklin. Beginning in the 1960’s and 70’s, Mr. Ditzenberger was also the owner of many rental properties throughout the Franklin area.
Following his retirement, he and his wife became residents of Hobe Sound, FL for 7 years; until moving back to Franklin for the summer months but continuing to return to Hobe Sound for the winter months. While in Florida, he was an active member of St. Christopher Church and helped with the maintenance work within the community he resided. He looked forward to the happy times he shared with his family and friends; most especially the fun times with his grandchildren and square dancing with his wife. He will be deeply missed by all those who loved him.
He was a diehard Pittsburgh Steeler fan!
Bob was an active and faithful member of St. Patrick Church in Franklin and was a Fourth Degree member for more than 50 years of the Knights of Columbus.
He was married November 30, 1957 to the former Marlene R. Lang; who survives.
In addition to his beloved wife of 56 years, he is survived by a son: Frank Matthew Ditzenberger of Polk and his significant other: Michelle Bean McClain of Franklin, and two daughters: Lisa Marie Grove and her husband John of Franklin and Lori Diane Ditzenberger of York. Also surviving are his grandchildren: David Matthew Ditzenberger of Franklin, Angela Lynn Gerber and her husband Jay of Edinboro, John Thomas Grove of Pittsburgh, Kasey Lynn Grove of Franklin, Devin Zachary Cathcart and Gage Nicholas Cathcart both of York; and his great-grandchildren: Emma and Brody Ditzenberger, both of Beauford, SC and Dade Gerber of Edinboro.
Also surviving are two brothers: Richard Ditzenberger and his wife Alice of Franklin and Ted Ditzenberger, also of Franklin and by two sisters: Rebecca Davis and her husband Kenneth of Franklin and Cindy Hutchison and her husband John of Claypool, Indiana and by his sisters-in-law: Kay Ditzenberger of Fredonia and Nancy McKinley of Santa Paula, CA and by his brothers-in law: Robert A. Lang and his wife Eileen of Waynesburg and Thomas Lang and his wife Peggy of Franklin; in addition to many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son: Robert Andrew “Andy” Ditzenberger, a brother: Donald Ditzenberger and two sisters: Phyllis Burton and Dana Kelly.
In accordance of his wishes, there will be no public visitation.
Family and friends are invited to attend his Funeral Mass of Christian Burial Wednesday at 12 NOON in St. Patrick Church, 949 Liberty Street, Franklin with Monsignor John J. Herbein, pastor officiating.
Private interment will follow in St. Patrick Cemetery.
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be directed in Bob’s name to either: St. Patrick Church or to The Knights of Columbus, Attn.: Seminarian Fund, 1436 Liberty Street, Franklin, PA 16323.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Timothy E. Hartle Funeral Home, 1328 Elk Street, Franklin.
Please visit: www.hartlefuneralhome.com for further information and to leave a note of condolence.
