Robert Schrier

Robert (Bob) John Schrier passed away in West Chester, Pennsylvania, on April 13, 2013. Everyone who knew Bob will remember and draw inspiration from his gentle and kind heart, his sparkling sense of humor, and his commitment to serve others. He was a dedicated family man, with values and beliefs that were firmly rooted in his Catholic faith.

Bob was born on December 6, 1939, in Trenton, New Jersey, where he grew up. During his youth, Bob frequented Franklin Park, learned to play the accordion, and collected Lionel trains with a passion. He labored hours creating layouts of complex train track designs, a hobby that foreshadowed his future as a civil engineer. From an early age, he displayed a remarkable ability and stubborn determination to repair nearly anything.

As a young man, Bob distinguished himself academically, socially, and even in the bowling alley. He graduated salutatorian from Trenton Catholic Boys' High School and went on to earn a B.S. in Civil Engineering from Villanova University. He subsequently earned a Masters in Civil Engineering at the University of Illinois, and would soon become project manager at Fortune 500 companies, such as Halliburton and Anheuser-Busch. In that capacity, he would make his mark heading up projects for suspension bridges, power plants, chemical plants, and breweries. Bob also served in the U.S. Navy Reserve and achieved the rank of Lieutenant JG.

Bob treasured his family. He was married to Marie P. Macklin, who shared his commitment to service, predominantly through Catholic charitable organizations, and a passion for all things Villanova. Marie would be his lifelong companion; in June 2012, Marie and Bob celebrated 47 years of marriage together. They raised two children, Marty and Kristina, who will forever remember their dad's enthusiastic presence at countless track meets, swim meets, basketball and baseball games, and gymnastics competitions.

When he wasn't spending time with his family or building a bridge, Bob was serving his community. Many will remember Bob leading the Friday night Fish Fry with the Knights of Columbus or working at the annual church bazaar in the sweltering Houston heat. Others will recall Bob's weekly Wednesday night visits to families in need, serving the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. Whether someone needed a job, a bed, or a meal, Bob was there to lend a hand.

Bob's personal tastes were diverse. Despite his Jersey roots, Bob relished a good Tex-Mex grande platter and Texas-made Blue Bell ice cream, which he often indulged in with his grandchildren. TastyKakes and soft pretzels were rarely declined when they were offered. On the music front, his tastes covered the spectrum, from polkas to big band to country music-especially Reba McEntire. And as for sports, Villanova basketball, Notre Dame football, and Phillies baseball reigned supreme.

During the final 17 years of his life, Bob struggled with Parkinson's disease. His courage, perseverance and discipline in this period exemplified his spirit and was inspirational to those in his life.

Bob was the son of Claire and Michael Schrier. He is survived by his wife Marie, and his two children, Martin (Rosario) and Kristina Howard (Stephen). Bob also had five grandchildren, who adored him: Sabrina, Lucas, Ethan, Gabriel, and the late Emma .

Visitation will be held on Friday, April 19, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Donohue Funeral Home, located at 366 West Lancaster Avenue, Wayne, Pennsylvania, 19087. Mass will be held on Saturday, April 20, at 11 a.m. at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church, located at 100 Fellowship Road, Chester Springs, Pennsylvania, 19425. The family will have a private burial service.



At the family's request, in lieu of sending flowers, please consider making a tribute donation in Bob's memory to the Michael J. Fox Foundation at https://www.michaeljfox.org/get-involved/donation.php?fr_id=2380&type=tribute.