Robert E. Dierdorf, 90, a lifelong resident of Monaca passed away, Monday morning, March 8th at his residence after a long and full life.
Born December 15, 1930, he was a son of the late Walter and Mary Dierdorf. Bob attended St. Vincent Preparatory School in Latrobe and was a graduate of Monaca High School, class of 1948. He then enlisted in the United States Air Force where he was stationed at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas from 1952 until 1956. A Staff Sergeant, Bob was a member of the USAF’s Human Resources Research Center. The center conducted scientific studies for the evaluation of Air Force personnel. After completing his military service, Bob returned to Carpenter Trade School. A man with a strong work ethic, Bob joined Carpenter Local #922 and began a long career in the construction trades. Over the years he served as a Construction Superintendent for several construction companies including Carcaise, Massa Brothers and later with C.W. Smith Construction Company. He also was a very community minded person who donated countless hours to a number of organizations. He was a member of the Monaca United Methodist Church and a member of the church’s Board of Trustees. He was responsible for the demolition and rebuilding of the Cathedral Ceiling in the sanctuary of the church and served as co chairman of the building committee for church’s recently constructed Carey Center. Bob also spent numerous hours as a member and Past Master of the Monaca Center Lodge #791 F & AM and president, director and trustee of the Monaca / Center Fraternity Club. He was a longtime member of the International Association of Lions Club’s Monaca / Center Chapter. In 1997-1998, he was the recipient of both the Lion of the Year Award and Presidents Appreciation Award for dedicated service. He also served as Chairman of the Lion’s Club’s eye screening program for pre school children. A life member of the Monaca Turners, he and two other men founded the Monaca Turners Golf League in the 1950s. He was a member of the Polish National Alliance #841 and a former member of the Board of Directors of the Monaca Community Hall of Fame. In the 1960’s, Bob coached Monaca Little League Baseball. A person who could do most anything and one who would help anyone in need, Bob was also instrumental years ago in the construction of the Allaire Park Pavilion.
Bob is survived by his wife of 67 years, Roberta J. “Bobbie” Pritchard Dierdorf. Three children: Jeffery (Joan) Dierdorf, Kristin (David) Hunter and Mark (Jennifer) Dierdorf. Six grandchildren: Kate (Ryan), Kim, Michael (Jenny), Lyndsey (Emily), Karli and Jake. Three great grandchildren: Caleb, Layla and Olivia. He is also survived by a brother, Donald (the late Betty) Dierdorf and a sister, Donna (Red) Powell. A step brother, David Dierdorf, and a brother in law, Otto (Levina) Pritchard and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Mary (Preda) Dierdorf and his step mother, Rosalia Dierdorf.
Friends will be received on Thursday from 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm in the SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 WASHINGTON AVENUE, MONACA where services will be held on Friday at 11 am. His pastor, Reverend Ross Pryor and VITAS chaplain, Reverend Keith Black will co officiate the service. Entombment will follow with military honors at 11:45 am in Sylvania Hills Memorial Park Mausoleum.
The Monaca Center Lodge #791 F & AM will conduct a Masonic service on Thursday at 7:30 pm at the funeral home.
The family has suggested memorial contributions be made, if desired in Bob’s memory to the Monaca United Methodist Church, 813 Indiana Avenue, Monaca, PA 15061
To share online condolences, light a memorial candle, add photos, and other information, please visit his permanent memorial at simpsonfuneralhome.com.