Robert Starr Denlinger

Robert Starr Denlinger, age 71, died unexpectedly of a heart attack, on a beautiful day surrounded by his lifelong friends on Wednesday, May 27, 2015. He was born on February 5, 1944 in Richmond, Virginia where he lived in an orphanage until being adopted at age 6 by his parents, Norman and Blanche Denlinger. The family moved to Raleigh in 1956, where Bob attended Daniels Middle School and graduated from Broughton High School in 1962. He was a member of the undefeated State Championship football team. He maintained and cherished those relationships throughout his life.

Upon graduating, Bob spent one year at UNC Chapel Hill before he transferred to Campbell University where he graduated in 1968 and met Ann, his wife of 48 years. Upon graduation, Bob served two years in the United States Navy serving as Ship Secretary.

Bob worked in banking throughout his career and helped establish several successful community banks in North Carolina. The operations center in North State Bank carries his name, as tribute. He was a tireless worker who took great pride in everything he did. That same devotion carried through to his family and friends, who constantly benefited from his selflessness.

Bob enjoyed supporting the UNC Tar Heels, golfing, baking, and playing the piano. Anyone who knew him, knew that he would put a smile on their face; he will be dearly missed. Bob is survived by his wife Ann, son Chris, daughter- in-law Dawn, and granddaughter Willa Claire, in whom he took immense pride. He is preceded in death by his parents, Blanche and Norman Denlinger.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donation in his memory to the American Diabetes Association or the American Heart Association. A memorial service followed by a reception will be held at Hayes Barton United Methodist Church, 2209 Fairview Road, Raleigh, NC at 11:00 AM on Monday, June 1.