Robert L Gilmore

Robert L. “Bob” Gilmore, age 72, of Dover, died Wednesday, March 2, 2011, in his home, following a period of declining health. Born at New Philadelphia, August 10, 1938, he was the youngest son of the late John K. and Arlene E. Overton Gilmore. Bob was a football standout, graduating from New Philadelphia High School in 1956, and continuing his education at Heidelberg College where he played for Paul Hoernemann as a linebacker. So successful was his in this position, that upon graduation in 1960, Bob accepted an invitation to play for the newly formed Boston Patriots (now the New England Patriots). Having participated in two seasons, and with a young family at home, Bob left the low paying ranks of professional football to become a school teacher. His career as an educator began at Walker Junior High, and before long, Bob was teaching and coaching the high school football and track teams. Beginning in 1972, and spanning more than a decade, Bob served as head coach for the Canton South Wildcats. Honored many times throughout his coaching career, Bob was most proud to have been inducted into the Heidelberg College Football Hall of Fame in 1995. Following a twenty-four year career as an educator, Bob went to work in the private sector, as superintendent of the former Friends Medal Manufacturing Facility based in New Philadelphia, retiring in 2001. An avid outdoorsman, Bob will be remembered not only for the difference he made on the football field, but as one who enjoyed the outdoors. Hunting and fishing were among his favorite pastimes. Survivors include his three children; Robert (wife, Nicole) Gilmore II, of Dover, William Gilmore of Midvale, and Rebecca (husband, Shawn) Gribble of Dover; and his daughter-in-law, Miki Gilmore of Midvale.He’ll be sadly missed by his three grandsons; Bobby J., Bo Lee, and Austin Gilmore, and granddaughter, Timberly Gribble. A brother, LaVern (wife, Nancy) Gilmore, of Dover, as well as a sister-in-law, Beverly (husband, Jim) Kappeler, a brother-in-law, Jerry Frantz, and numerous nieces and nephews, complete the family. In addition to his parents, Bob is preceded in death by his wife of fifty-three years, the former E. Jane Enold. The couple wed February 16, 1957, and she preceded him in death this past November 1. A sister-in-law, Judy Bruce, is also deceased. Cremation is planned, and a private graveside service for Bob and Jane will be held in Evergreen Burial Park. There are no public calling hours, although the family welcomes friends to share memories and condolences by visiting the funeral home’s website. The Gilmore family requests that memorials be made the American Cancer Society, 525 North Broad Street, Canfield, OH 44406, or to the American Heart Association, 4916 Hills and Dales Road NW Canton, OH 44708.