Robert P Namath

http://www.simpsonfuneralhome.com/obituary/robert-p-namath-sr/

Robert P. "Bob" Namath, Sr.

Saturday, October 6, 1934 - Tuesday, March 25, 2014

Although he lived a life filled with countless experiences that greatly enriched his journey, there was nothing that Robert Namath, Sr. treasured more than being a grandfather to the grandchildren who filled his heart with joy. He was a man who didn’t shy away from doing things his way, and his strength when facing life’s challenges is to be admired. Bob was a generous and kindhearted man who fully embraced the days he was given while holding his loved ones near. With a life that spanned times of war and times of peace, times of plenty and times of want, he created a timeless collection of memories that his friends and loved ones will carry close to their hearts.

The 1930s ushered some of the most trying days we have faced as a nation as the entire decade was cloaked in the hardship of the Great Depression. Jobs became difficult to come by, which drove the unemployment rate to over 25 percent by the middle part of the decade leaving cities, communities, and families to come together to do whatever they could to weather the storm. Despite the circumstances around them, a young couple from Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, was filled with unspeakable joy as they welcomed a healthy baby boy into their hearts and home on October 6, 1934. Robert P. was one of five children born to his parents, John Namath and Rose Juhasz Szolnoki, and he was raised in the family home alongside his siblings, John “Sonny,” Franklin, Rita, and Joe.

In many ways Robert, or Bob as he was often known, experienced an upbringing that was a reflection of his generation. He was a student at St. Mary School in Beaver Falls, where he achieved perfect attendance during his sixth grade year. Bob went on to Beaver Falls High School where he played football. However, he left school before graduating in order to help support the family.

As a young man Bob honorably served his country as a soldier in the United States Army. Throughout his time in the service he was stationed at Fort Richardson in Alaska and was a cook. The cooking skills he learned remained with him throughout his life. Bob also played football while in the Army. Upon returning to civilian life, Bob made a career as a steelworker. The bulk of his career was spent at Pittsburgh Tube until he retired.

New and exciting changes were in store for when he became the father of five children: Connie, Bobby, Richie, Frankie, and Danny. Later in life he was thrilled when his family tree blossomed to include seven grandchildren with whom he loved spending as much time as he could. It was easy to see that all seven grandchildren including Timmy, Steven, Meghan, Madison, Abigail, Hunter, and Caleb were the apple of Bob’s eye. His grandchildren quickly learned which cabinet of his home was well stocked with candy. Bob was also known to give his grandchildren a few dollars to buy pop at the gas station that was adjacent to his home.

In his leisure time Bob enjoyed pursuing his interests. He was quite the golfer who had an unusual cross-handed swing that he was taught years ago while working as a caddy. During his younger years Bob often bet his buddies that he could drive a golf ball over utility wires. His love for cooking remained, and he loved to grill anything including a slab of bacon and pickled pigs feet. Bob’s specialties also included braunschweiger with French’s golden mustard and onions served on Italian bread, hot bacon sandwiches, and a variety of soups, although not tomato soup. In addition to playing football during his younger years, Bob was an avid football enthusiast who wasn’t a fan of any team in particular, but he did have a soft spot for the Steelers and the Jets.

Bob was given a few challenges that changed his daily life in regards to his health. In 1991 he had his right leg amputated, and a bit later he was in a serious automobile accident.

A man who was truly unique, Robert Namath, Sr. was a blessing in the lives of his family and friends. He was never concerned with what others thought, and he was most comfortable going shirtless and without shoes. He was a hardworking man whose greatest gift was the family he cherished. Bob will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Robert P. Namath, Sr., of Monaca, died on Tuesday morning, March 25, 2014. Bob’s family include his five children, Connie (Steve) Sluzynsky and Bobby Namath, Jr. both of Monaca, Richie (Sara) Namath of Conway, Frankie (Carol) Namath of Baden, and Danny Namath of Weirton, WV; former wife, Billie Namath of Monaca; seven grandchildren, Timmy Namath, Steven and Meghan Sluzynsky and Madison, Abigail, Hunter and Caleb Namath; three great-grandchildren; three siblings, Franklin Namath, Rita Sims and Joe Namath; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by his brother, John “Sonny” Namath. Friends will be received Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. in the Simpson Funeral & Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, where parting prayers will be offered Friday at 9:30 a.m. followed by a mass of Christian burial at 10 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Monaca. Interment will follow in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, Beaver Falls. Full military honors will be accorded by the Beaver County Special Unit at 11:30 a.m. at the cemetery.

In lieu of flowers the family has suggested memorial contributions may be made, if desired, to Miracle League of SW PA (builds sports facilities for special needs children), PO Box 1519, Cranberry Township, PA 16066. To share online condolences, get directions and other information, please visit simpsonfuneralhome.com.