Robert Vernon McCandless

MANSFIELD: Robert Vernon McCandless would agree that communication technology has come a long way in the past 20 years. Even so, he still preferred the equipment that possibly started it all, the radio. Trained in communication technology through his career as a Merchant Marine, Robert was a licensed radio officer who specialized in Morse Code. His career would also turn into his greatest hobby as a HAM radio operator who went by the call sign W3KW. He spent countless hours with a cup of coffee and his in home radio equipment communicating with people from all over.

Robert Vernon McCandless, age 70, of Mansfield passed away Wednesday, January 29, 2014 in his home.

He was born April 6, 1943 in Mars, Pennsylvania the son of Floyd and Dolores (Cahall) McCandless. Following high school Robert studied at PENN Technical Institute where he received a degree in Electronics and Instrumentation Technology.

Along with his many years in the Merchant Marines, Robert also served in the U.S. Navy during Vietnam. A patriot, Robert remained active with the AMVETS Post 26, Mansfield.

Following his military service, Robert worked for over 12 years as an electrical engineer at Westinghouse in Mansfield.

Surviving are his daughter Megan McCandless of Columbus, step-daughter Michelle and Tyler Boylan of Lexington, a step granddaughter Meadow Boylan, his mother Dolores in Cranberry, Pennsylvania, and his best friend Larry Hively of Mansfield. Also are his three dogs Bellamy, Diamond and Chloe whom he loved to walk religiously.

He was preceded in death by his father.

A private interment for Robert will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions honoring Robert may be made to: the Richland County Humane Society, 3025 Park Avenue West, Mansfield, Ohio 44906.

The Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home is honored to serve the McCandless family with compassionate cremation arrangements and private condolences to them may be made by visiting:www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.