Robert Leonhard Blickensderfer

ROBERT LEONHARD BLICKENSDERFER, “Blickie”, age 80, of Dover; hunter, fisherman, farmer, camper, motorcyclist, boater, singer, square dancer, family comedian, leftovers chef, movies, music and computer enthusiast, left for Paradise to be with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on Tuesday, October 8, 2013, after a blessing of 20 more years following a cancer diagnosis.

Bob is most affectionately remembered as a devout husband, father and family patriarch who led his life, family and friends by his own life’s example in all he did. His life was not only distinguished and admired by all who knew him, but was self-realized as richly blessed. The blessings were through exceeding happiness and vast treasures not of this world as he frequently demonstrated by his inexplicable affectionate smile.

A gentle and compelling man from Gnadenhutten, Bob mostly enjoyed surrounding himself with family and friends in every aspect of his life. Sharing every moment of life with those around him was the most important attribute to his happiness, peace and joy. His caretaking and compassion was even extended to the many pets he enjoyed throughout his life.

A 1951 graduate of the former Gnadenhutten High School, Bob served as a member of the United States Army from 1953-1955 and was stationed in Alaska during his service. Professionally, Bob worked for the Gradall Company at New Philadelphia as a machinist and lathe operator and retired following 39 years of service with the company. He continued serving others following retirement through various part-time jobs; working summers at Yellowstone National Park and providing comfort to others through Hospice visits.

Bob is survived by his wife of 56 years, the former Marilyn Lee Fowler, whom he loved, adored and was quick to express his gratitude as his special blessing from God to share his life. He is additionally survived by three children, Suzanne (Doug) Rutan of New York, William R. (Laura) Blickensderfer of Maryland, and David (Kelly) Blickensderfer of Lewis Center, Ohio and three brothers, James (Zetta) Blickensderfer of Dennison, William (former wife, Audrey) Blickensderfer of Pennsylvania, and David (Mary Jo) Blickensderfer of Delaware, Ohio.

Completing the family are 10 grandchildren, Robert (Jackie), David (Anna), William (Robyn), Heather, Heidi (Josh), Chelsea (Jack), Alex, Jacob, Taryn and Nathan; two great-grandchildren, Hunter and Hazel as well as numerous nieces and nephews and many friends throughout the United States.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents Albert “Abie” Blickensderfer and Grace (Leonhard) Blickensderfer, and his step-mother, Dorothy Blickensderfer.

A memorial service celebrating Bob’s life will be led by Rev. John Wallace in the First Moravian Church at Dover on Sunday, October 13, 2013 at 4:00 PM where the family will greet guests one hour prior to services on Sunday from 3:00 – 4:00 PM. Following services, all are invited to join the family in the church social hall for a reception and a time of fellowship.

In loving memory and celebration of Bob’s life, family and friends are encouraged to follow their own hearts. If desired, a favorite charity of Bob’s is Crossroads Hospice, 3743 Boettler Oaks Dr, Suite E, Uniontown, OH 44685.

Those wishing to do so may send the family a personal condolence and light a candle in remembrance of Bob by visiting the funeral home’s website at www.GeibCares.com.