Robert E. Osborn, age 89, of Waterford and most recently a resident of Edinboro Manor, died Tuesday, May 10, 2011 after a brief illness. The fourth child of the late Harley and Nancy Donnell Osborn, Bob was born May 9, 1922 in Summit Township, Erie County. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Thora Eva Haynes, who presently also resides at Edinboro Manor.
Bob is preceded in death by a sister, Doris Foster. His remaining siblings include Wilbur P. (Grace) Osborn of Waterford and Margaret Tryzbiak of Palm Bay, FL.
Bob and Thora were married July 31, 1948 and have three children: Lee Osborn of Everett, WA; and Gerald (Susan) Osborn and Jeffrey (Margaret) Obsorn, all of Waterford.
A 1940 graduate of Erie Academy High School, Bob then served with the Merchant Marines during WWII. Over the years, he was employed by the Erie Crawford Co-op, worked as a rural mail carrier, and for 22 years was a bus driver for the Fort LeBoeuf School District until his retirement in 1987. Bob and Thora also were self-employed in egg production and delivery and for many years delivered eggs throughout Erie County.
Bob was actively involved in the Erie Symphonic Choir and at the Asbury United Methodist Church in Waterford. As a member of the church for over 60 years, he served on many committees and sang in the church choir as recently as this past November.
Bob’s strong spiritual legacy is left to his children and to his 8 grandchildren: Chastity Osborn and Jodie Brigman, Anna, Ryan and Marcus Osborn, and Rustin, Carly and Elyse Osborn; also to his former daughter-in-law, Karin Lowe, and to several nieces, nephews, and many cherished friends.
Visiting hours will be at the Van Matre Funeral Home, 105 Walnut Street, Waterford on Thursday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Funeral services will be at the Asbury United Methodist Church, West 2nd Street, Waterford on Friday morning at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Dennis Fetter officiating. Burial will follow at Waterford Cemetery.
Donations may be made to Bob’s memory to the Music Ministry of Asbury United Methodist Church.
To Bob’s family. We were so sorry to hear of your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Gary and Colleen Osborn, Okeechobee, FL
To the Osborn Family. We send our heartfelt condolences. From Brent, Terri, Beth and Trinity.