Robert G. Waitkus

Robert (Bob) Waitkus, age 86, beloved husband to Barbara Holmes Waitkus for over 65 years, passed away peacefully on December 8th with his loving and adoring wife at his side. He is survived by his eight children: Bob (Patty), Patrick (Lisa), Dan (Debbie), Ann Marie Kilbane (Jim), Ginny Heffner (Jim), David (Lauren), Barbara Waitkus Billings, and Beth Ehrbar (Bill). He was the proud Papa “Grumpa” to 20 adoring grandchildren: Allison (Michael), Matthew (Kristin), Timothy (Leslie), Sean, Mary Kate, Erin, Stephen, Connor, Jimmy (deceased), Colleen (Jay), Brigid, Meghan, Anthony (Sarah), Katie (Joe), Hannah (Rishi), Leah (Mark), Bronte, Gabrielle, Jack, Will and 11 great grandchildren: Danny, Lucy, Jacob, Conor, Jack, Lainey, Dominic, Giovani, Luke, Catherine and John. Bob was a member of St. Bernadette Parish for 53 years where he dedicated much of his time and talent as a member of the Finance Board, Church Choir and Parish Council. “Coach” enjoyed running into his former players over the years as Bob was a mentor to many young people during his time as a CYO baseball coach. Bob was a proud patriot and Navy veteran as evidenced by his nearly always present USS Wisconsin hat. Bob, Dad, Papa, Uncle Bob leaves a strong legacy of love of God, family, and country. He will always be remembered and respected as a man of True Grit.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial be made to the Veterans Blind Rehabilitation Services c/o, Louis Stokes Cleveland Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 10701 East Boulevard, Cleveland, OH 44106-1702.

Mass of Christian Burial Friday, December 17, at 10:30am in St. Bernadette Church, 2256 Clague Rd, interment private. Friends may visit in the church gathering room immediately after the Mass on Friday.