Robert Williams

Robert A. Williams ("Pro") Robert -- affectionately known as "Pro" -- lived an active and compassionate life from November 25, 1922 through his death on July 6, 2013. Born in Lorain, Ohio, he graduated from Lorain High School in 1941. Bob took great pride in his role during World War II with the 69th Infantry Division, serving with the artillery in European Front. For his efforts, he was awarded the Bronze Star, Battle Star for the Ardennes Campaign, Good Conduct, American Campaign, Occupation Service, and WWII Victory medals. Bob returned to Lorain following the war and married his sweetheart, Irene Tomaszewski on October 26, 1946. Drawing upon the skills he used in laying telephone lines for the American troops in Europe, Bob secured employment at the Lorain Telephone Company as a lineman, troubleshooter, and business systems sales manager for 36 year, retiring from Centel in 1982. While Bob's employment and service to his country brought satisfaction, he found great joy as an involved member of the community. As a member of Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church, Bob served as an usher, mass server, and member of the Holy Name Society. During the 1960's, he inspired many young boys as a Cubmaster for Cub Pack 341 and Scoutmaster for Troop 349. In retirement, Bob volunteered at St. Joseph and Community Health Partners hospitals as a LifeLine installer. Bob organized and was a founding member of the Lorain Wheelmen Bicycle Club and a member of the Lorain Senior Citizen Fellowship Club and International Telephone Pioneers Association. He was an avid bicyclist, walker, and woodworker. Most of all, Bob loved to socialize as he planned annual Army reunions with lifelong friends and comrades. Bob is survived by his wife Irene (Tomaszewski) of 66 years; children Paulette (Ron Sislowski) of Elyria, David (Connie) of Wakeman, Donald (Karen) of Williamson, NY, and Annie (Pete) Heidersbach of Grafton; two grandchildren Evann and Ross Heidersbach; sister Marilyn DelPrincipe of Lorain; Step-grandchildren Pam (Dave) Tapper of South Amherst, Michelle Henson of Ashland, Chris Robinson of Oberlin, Amanda Robinson of Ashland; four step great grandchildren. Preceded in death by his parents Harry and Anna (Moc) Williams. The family will receive friends and family from 10:00 - 11:00 a.m., one hour before the Mass of Christian Burial scheduled for Monday July 8 at 11:00 a.m. at Nativity B.V.M. Church, 418 West 15th Street, Lorain. The Rev. Robert Glepko will officiate. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery in Lorain, Ohio. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Building Fund at Nativity, Friends of A.P.L., or New Life Hospice. The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to the compassionate and professional care provided by the staffs at Amherst Manor Nursing Home and New Life Hospice. www.dombrowskifuneralhome.com