Robert P. Blyler

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Robert P. Blyler, 90, of Northumberland. Robert passed away on Jan. 3 at Nottingham Village Nursing Home.
Bob was born April 24, 1935, in Espy, Pa., to George and Mary Blyler. He was raised on the family farm with his beloved brothers, George, Don and Glenn. Bob and his brothers were educated in a one-room schoolhouse where he was moved a year ahead since there was no one else in his grade. His education continued at Bloomsburg College where he graduated
with a BS in Science and Social Studies. In 1955, Bob left for the Marines where he attended officer training school and then attended flight training. When he returned on Christmas leave
in 1956, he married the love of his life, Shirley Yeager, whom he had met at church. The newlyweds returned to Pensacola where Bob received his wings. The next years were spent in Santa Ana, Calif. He was deployed on the helicopter carrier USS Princeton, during a time of Peace. Bob left the Marines as a Captain.
Returning to Pa., Bob was hired to teach science and social studies at Sunbury Junior High and later transferred to CW Rice Middle School. Continuing his education at Bucknell University, Bob received his degree in school counseling. He served as a guidance counselor at Shikellamy in the middle school level for 25 years. Bob touched so many lives which could be observed whenever he was in public. Many would take the time to thank him for his kindness and the help he provided to them during their lives.
Bob was well known for service to his community. He attended First Reformed Church of United Church of Christ in Sunbury where he served on the consistory, as Sunday school teacher and Sunday School Superintendent for many years. Much time was also spent at the church volunteering as painter, handyman, gardener, and kitchen worker where he was well known for his pie/cake cutting skills.
The Boy Scouts of America also played a major role for Bob. Over his 40 years of dedication, he served in many roles such as Scoutmaster, Roundtable Commissioner, and Advancement & Awards Chairman for the Netami District. He was also a member of the Order of the Arrow. Bob received many scouting awards including the Silver Beaver which is Scouting America's highest council-level recognition for registered adult leaders. Serving as a volunteer for the Red Cross Bloodmobile was another of Bob's passions. He served for 20-plus years in many roles such as Bloodmobile Volunteer Coordinator for Northumberland, Sunbury Chapter Board of Directors and co-chairman of the Blood Services committee. Bob was also a thirteen gallon blood donor. These many years of dedication earned him the Pineknotter of the Year award in 1996.
Most of all Bob cherished the time he spent with family and friends. Whether traveling with Shirley, his brother George and his wife Rita or joining them during the winter months in Florida; hunting and fishing or weekly escapades with his brother Glenn, he loved it all. Gatherings for annual Labor Day picnics or Christmas hot dogs in the fireplace will be remembered by his Family. His grandchildren were his pride and joy. Bob enjoyed time spent with weekly game nights and followed them to all their sporting events. Golf outings with his work partner Joe, weekly cards with friends, or joining neighbors for breakfast; Bob lived life to the fullest.
Bob is preceded in death by his parents, wife of 63 years, and brother Don. He is survived by his loving children, daughter, Wendy Fadale — husband Dave and grandsons, Vince and Ethan— fiancé Anna Mcfadden and son, Rob — wife Monica Ehrlich and her children Makenna and Maxwell.
A celebration of life service will be held on Sunday, Jan. 11 at 2 p.m. with visitation hours from 1 to 2 p.m. at the First Reformed Church of United Christ of Christ, 160 Chestnut St., Sunbury, Pa., 17801.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob's memory may be made to The First Reformed Church of United Church of Christ.
Arrangements are by the Zweier Funeral Home, 157 Chestnut St., Sunbury.