Robert M. Spinazzola, 87, Rehoboth Beach, Del., formerly of Altoona, passed away peacefully in his sleep in the early hours Wednesday, at the Brandywine Living at Seaside Pointe in Rehoboth Beach. He was the son of the late Michael and Viola (Russo) Spinazzola and was born in Altoona. He was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Phyllis (Collins) Spinazzola.
A graduate of Altoona High School and the Pennsylvania State University, Bob began his professional career as a biology teacher in the Altoona Area School District but was soon attracted to developing business professionals through the Dale Carnegie Training. He retired in 2001 after successfully operating his own Dale Carnegie franchise across 50 counties of Pennsylvania.
He had a passion for his family, boating on the three rivers and the Chesapeake Bay, and was at his best when he was taking care of others in his family or community. He was a long-standing member of the Rotary Club of Altoona and St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church.
He is survived by his sister, Joann Heberling and her husband, Joel of Pittsboro, N.C.; his brother, Angelo Spinazzola and his wife, Lucy; son, Robert Stephen Spinazzola and his wife, Pat, of Phoenix, Md.; son, Robert Michael Spinazzola II and his husband, Jim Testerman of Rehoboth Beach; grandson, Brian Spinazzola; nieces, Janelle Gentilini and Susan Detwiler; and nephews, Michael Detwiler and Michael Spinazzola.
Friends will be received from 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 29, 2021, at The Stevens Mortuary Inc., 1421 Eighth Ave., Altoona. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 30, 2021, at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, with Msgr. Michael Becker, celebrant. Committal will be held at Calvary Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages memorial contributions be made in Bob's memory to the food pantry of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, PO Box 231, Altoona, PA 16603.
Condolences may be made at www.stevensfamilyfuneralhomes.com or Stevens Family Funeral Homes Facebook. |