Robert Neil McEldowney

Robert Neil McEldowney, age 89, passed away at his home on February 10, 2025. Bob was born in Corry, Pennsylvania on March 15, 1935, to Malcolm & Marion (Honhart) McEldowney. As a little boy, he loved baseball, and always had ambitions to be a professional player.

Unfortunately, Bob’s parents passed away when he was in elementary school. He and his brother went to live at the St. Joseph Orphanage in Erie, Pennsylvania. As soon as he could, Bob ventured out on his own working a variety of unusual jobs like as a pin setter at a bowling alley, and for a travelling carnival.

Soon, Bob enlisted in the Army and proudly served his country during the Korean War from 1952 to 1955, earning the Meritorious Unit Commendation, and a Good Conduct Medal. Following his honorable discharge, Bob completed his education earning his bachelor’s degree from Toccoa Falls College.

On June 3, 1957, Bob was united in marriage to the love of his life, the former Mary Emma Ervin. Together, they raised five children. A hardworking provider to his family, Bob spent his career as a retail manager for general merchandise stores like Woolworth’s and Walmart. During the last 15 years of his working life, Bob and Mary drove the Federal Express Custom Critical Van around the country. They were awarded the Five Star Service Award every year. They truly enjoyed the road trips that allowed them to see the country.

A man of great faith, Bob always took time to study his bible and creation design. When he was relaxing on the couch, he was found watching a sports match or a good old Western on TV.

Most importantly, Bob was a family man. He was so proud of his children and listed their accomplishments as his finest moments. From weddings and graduations to the birth of grandchildren, all these were treasured memories for Bob. He leaves behind a legacy of love, faith and hard work.

Robert is survived by his wife of 67 years, Mary; his children: John Paul McEldowney, Elizabeth Ann “Sis” (James) Conlon; Martha Marie “Mort to Me” (Randy) Welsch; Stephen Neil (Adrienne) McEldowney and James Allen “Jimmy” (Emily) McEldowney; his grandchildren: Matthew Richard, Robert James, Hannah Marie, Casey Albert, Cody Ray, Christine Marie, Andrew Neil, Lidia Lynn, Jordan James, Tyler Alan and Megan Annete and Paul Bearer; his great-grandchildren: Barrett Alan McEldowney, Quincy Ray Welsch, Lilly Ann Kay Merrill, Ada June Merrill, Everly Reta-Jean McEldowney, Emma Marie Welsch and Adira Jeanette McEldowney.

He was preceded in death by his great-grandchildren Kinsley Annete McEldowney and Paisley Neveah as well as his siblings: Elizabeth Mae “Betty”, Kathern “Elaine”, Frederick Ernest “Brother”, Laverne Cameron “Sonny”, Richard Eugene “Dicky”.

A funeral service for Robert will be held on Sunday February 16, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Reyers North Valley Chapel. Private Interment will be at Chapel Hill Memorial Park.

Memorial Donations in memory of Bob may be made to Tocca Falls College. https://tfc.edu/give/