Robert E. Loftus

ROBERT E. LOFTUS

Of Brookline, age 93, on Thursday, February 1, 2018, following a brief illness and a full life filled with love and accomplishment, with his daughter, Sharon and son-in-law, Bill, at his side.  They had been his primary caregivers for the past 10 years, and along with his family had ensured his golden years were golden and his dignity fiercely protected.  He was preceded in death by his wife, Loretta, and their cherished infant son, Regis, his mother, Anna and father, Jim, and his two brothers and two sisters.  He is survived by his five children, Kathleen (Joe) Waitkus, Sharon (Bill Pirro) Loftus, Robert E. Loftus, Jr. (Dan), Tom Loftus and Maureen (Michael) Hogel.  He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren, Drew (Beth) Waitkus, Brittany (Philip) Belcastro, Monica Waitkus, Shea Loftus, Larkin Hogel, Colin Loftus, Maeve Hogel, as well as four great-grandchildren, Jaida and Jaxon Foster and Sophia and Gemma Belcastro.

Bob was born in McKeesport, and was one of the country's greatest generations serving his country in World War II in both European and Pacific Theaters in the 86th US Infantry Division, 341st Infantry Regiment, Company E "Blackhawks."  He worked for Firth Sterling (later Teledyne Firth Sterling) for more than 47 years in both McKeesport, PA and Nashville, TN, many as head of labor relations.  After the death of his wife 36 years ago, he took on the roles of both father and mother, grandfather and grandmother, and great-grandfather and great-grandmother to his large family.  He was a member of St. Pius X Church in Brookline for more than 60 years, and was active in many organizations in the church, specifically St. Vincent DePaul.  He had been a resident at Broadmore Senior Living for the past 3-1/2 years.  As was stated in a Facebook post by one of his granddaughters following his death, "they say crying is a way of eyes speaking when the mouth cannot explain how broken the heart is."  I'll just say that we love you very much Pap, and we miss you more.  We hope you are enjoying Heaven with Mom Mom and Regis.  Until we meet again.

Family and friends will be received at the Frank F. DeBor Funeral Home on Sunday, February 4, from 12 to 4 p.m..  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, February 5, at 11:30 a.m., in St. Pius X Church (Brookline).

Memorial contributions may be made to DePaul School for Hearing, 6202 Alder Street, Pittsburgh, PA  15206.

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