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Robert Pritchard Obituary

Pritchard Robert P. "Bob" Pritchard, 69, of Westerville, passed away Tuesday, February 9, 2016. Retired teacher and coach from Worthington City Schools. 1964 graduate of Westerville High School and 1981 graduate of The Ohio State University. Former football coach at Westerville South High School and Thomas Worthington High School and golf coach at Worthington Kilbourne High School. An avid golfer and a fan of The Ohio State Buckeyes. Veteran of U.S. Air Force (1966-1971). Served in Korea during the Pueblo Crisis. Member of Sunbury VFW Post 8736 and Sunbury Eagles. Preceded in death by parents Robert W. and Paulette Pritchard. Survived by loving wife, Adonica "Doni" Pritchard; daughter, Jill (Jon) Burnworth of Westerville; sister, Alice (Mel) Zarbaugh of Westerville; nephew, Bob (Kim) Zarbaugh of Grove City; niece, Aimee (Todd) Cooper of Florida; and numerous relatives and many friends. Friends may call at the MORELAND FUNERAL HOME, 55 East Schrock Road, Westerville, 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Monday. Funeral service will be held 11 a.m. Tuesday, February 16, 2016 at The Church of the Messiah, 51 North State Street, Westerville. Rev. Jim Wilson officiating. Interment Otterbein Cemetery. Donations may be made to the VFW Post 8736, 435 McGill Street, Sunbury, Ohio 43074.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Columbus Dispatch from Feb. 11 to Feb. 13, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Pritchard

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Nick Zarbaugh

November 29, 2018

I didn't get to see him much. I was his "great" Nephew if that's what it's called. He was my dad's coach at the time. My dad Robert E. Zarbaugh was his nephew. I remember exactly what he was as a coach, a defensive coordinator. I dedicated my wrestling season to him and I ended up being city champion and ranked 9 int the state. God bless his soul.

February 29, 2016

Doni and Jill,
So sorry to hear about Bob. We just found out yesterday. Our thoughts and prayers are with you both.
Bob and Mary Mietz
Camdenton, Mo

Russell C. Nelson

February 18, 2016

Coach Pritch was on the staff during my playing days at Worthington, and was my position coach in '88. He had such a knack for knowing when we needed to be chewed out, or patted on the back and coached up. Either way, you always knew he was coming from a good (and funny, sometimes hilarious) place and had your back after a blown assignment or a bad game. He was our coach, but it felt like he was one of us.

After hearing the sad news and reflecting for a few days, it dawned on me that the 88 season was one of my favorites (playing for any coach, in any sport, little league through college).

The last time I ran into him was about five years later, and during our brief chat he coached me up once againonly this time it was in the game of life, at a time when I needed it. We didn't speak about it, he could just tell.

Even though it was only a few football seasons, and over 25 years ago, the fond memories and lasting impressions remain. Thanks again, Coach.

Mike Thian

February 17, 2016

I had Mr. Pritchard in PE from first to sixth grade! I will always have fond memories of kind he was, how hard his arrows seemed to hit when he was teaching us archery, fishing field trips to Sharon woods, watching in awe as he shot the starter pistol for field day relays, and him yelling "ready?, set?,...BANANNAS!" when it was time to play a game. RIP Mr. Pritchard, you were a positive influence on me and a great role model for all students!

"The Eagle Has Landed"

Herb USMC

February 17, 2016

RIP

Herb USMC

February 17, 2016

Herb USMC

February 17, 2016

USAF Memorial

Herb USMC

February 17, 2016

Post 8736

Herb USMC

February 17, 2016

1964 Alumni

Herb USMC

February 17, 2016

Herb USMC

February 17, 2016

Pueblo Crisis in Korea

Herb USMC

February 17, 2016

Herb Sharfenaker USMC

February 17, 2016

God Bless and Thank YOU for your service in The U.S.Air Force,Bob RIP. And Semper Fi

Rev Tim Bobbitt

February 16, 2016

Rest in Peace Coach Pritch. He was a joy to play under at Worthington many years ago. Prayers for family.

Steve Pearson

February 15, 2016

Bobby "P" rest in peace. Bob was a neighbor, childhood friend and protector of the little guy. I remember his mom, sister Alice and his Aunt who lived on Logan Avenue. Bob lost his dad at a very early age and his mother was French with a very heavy accent. As a result Bob (or Bobby as his mom called him)became the man of the house and took on the responsibility very seriously. My best friend and then next door neighbor Jim Dibert and I, would try to visit Bobby during our stroll through Westerville during the Christmas Holiday Seasons. Bob will always be remembered as a childhood friend and mentor. Until we meet again.

Amanda Mowery

February 15, 2016

I was in first grade when I went Sutter Park.Life for me was hard at that time. My parents were going though a divorce funding that time. Mr Pritchard is one of the classes I Always looked forward to. I now look back to that time. I remember his love for all his students and his love for teaching Gym to us. He made Gym fun for everyone. He encouraged us to try new sports. My favorite time was playing on the Scooters. I will miss you. And thank you for carrying about me.

Kurt Feldmann

February 14, 2016

I had the privilege of playing for Pritch and spending a semester job shadowing him at Sutter Park while I was still in High School. I would still visit him every quarter in college. He was more than a coach and a friend. He was a masterful mentor who helped prepare me to lead Infantry Soldiers. Pritch taught me how to empower myself and others through empathy. Like countless others, I am extremely blessed to have had Pritch in my life exactly when I needed him the most. My deepest sympathies to all those who held him dear.
Kurt Feldmann
Cincinnati

Timothy Cheney

February 14, 2016

Mr. Pritchard was my Gym Teacher at Sutter Park. He taught me a lot, I will never forget him. I remember seeing him in the hallways in High School at WKHS, he always had that big smile on his face. My condolences go out to his whole family, rest in peace till I see you again!

February 14, 2016

I will always think of "Pritch" as a very close friend and a loyal and dedicated football coach. I had the pleasure of working with him back in the 80's at Westerville South. The kids and coaches loved and respected him. He was a very positive influence on everyone and had a great sense of humor. My family sends our deepest condolences to his family. I know he will make GOD smile.
Sincerely,
Dale Brown (Cheryl, Chris & Jason)

Mark Seymour

February 13, 2016

Coach Prtichard was a great example to many of us back in High School. As I read through the guest book I noticed an entry that mentioned he had presented the writer with her High School Diploma. He also presented me with mine. He was graduating from OSU as we were graduating from WSHS. Because he wasn't "officially" a teacher in the district at the time I had make a special request to have him present my diploma to me. Thankfully the administration approved the request, he was truly someone who helped shape my future. Prayers to his family. Please know he lives on in many of us that he touched over the years.

Sandra Bell-Duckworth

February 13, 2016

To the Pritchard family,
Bob was a very nice person who I got to know when I taught at Westerville South. He always had a smile and his dedication to the students he worked with was phenomenal.

He will be missed, but now he serves God with the same dedication. What he taught you and what he left you with will always be with you.

Nicole Williams

February 13, 2016

I was just thinking yesterday about how a seeds planted in Mr. Pritchard's PE class turned into a hobby. Gym class was hard for me, but he worked hard to help everyone find something they enjoyed. I wonder if I'll ever fully recognize the huge influence of teachers on my life. May his family find peace at this difficult time.

Tony Harris

February 13, 2016

I remember Coach Pritchard at Westerville South. A wonderful motivator loved by everyone. That big smile will missed.

Christian McKenna

February 13, 2016

Coach Pritch was a special man. He coached me 25 years ago but his impression and memory are still with me. My prayers are with his family.

Marc Ullmann

February 12, 2016

Mr Pritchard was a great teacher. I had him at sutter park and even helped him build
The putt putt course. He taught me so much and I will never forget him. My prayers and condolences are with his family

February 12, 2016

Doni & Jill, my thoughts and prayers are with you. Bob was loved by so many people! We'll always remember that great smile and all the laughs we had on those many softball trips. And Jill, the expression on his face as the two of you danced at your wedding said it all. He was so proud of his girl - always the apple of his eye. If Jess or I can do anything, we're only a phone call away. Love you both.

Dave Gibson

February 12, 2016

So sorry to hear the news. Coach Pritchard was a great one and I enjoyed playing for him. Sincere condolences to his family & friends.

Denny Steele

February 12, 2016

Always remember Bob's big Smile.RIP old friend.

John Sells

February 12, 2016

Bob Pritchard was good and decent man, my condolenses.

Jim Blackburn

February 12, 2016

Bob's passing is very sad for many... He was one of my younger brother's best friends in his final year while he was dealing with his cancer... a very special man and a friend to many... my thoughts and prayers are with the many people grieving Bob's passing...

Elizabeth Ryan McNamara

February 12, 2016

As a kid, PE was always a difficult activity for me, and so it was also my least favorite class. Mr. Pritchard was the only PE teacher in my entire schooling who took the time to modify activities for me, find my strengths, and go out of his way to encourage me in any way he could. That's the sign of a true teacher. Thank you for sharing a wonderful soul with us.

Nancy For tin Green

February 12, 2016

So sorry to hear of Bob's passing, but will not be able to attend his showing or funeral as I am out of town. He was one of the good guys and will be missed.

Janice Porter

February 12, 2016

I haven't seen Bob since graduating from high school in 1964, but I remember him as a really good person and classmate. My sympathy to the family.

Andrea Rowson

February 12, 2016

Mr. Pritchard was my daughter's P.E. teacher at Sutter Park. She has fond memories of him. I appreciate all he did for not only my daughter, but all the students he taught. I'm very sorry for your loss.

Paul Bukky

February 12, 2016

My condolences.

Teresa & Dave Keller

February 12, 2016

So very sorry for your loss. We have such fond memories of him at Sutter Park. He was such a sweet man. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Adrienne and Jeff Janacek

February 12, 2016

I am so sorry for your loss. Mr. Pritchard was the greatest teacher. He was so kind and loved by everyone.

K Jones

February 12, 2016

Mr. Pritchard was my gym teacher at Sutter Park elementary- I'm 34 now but always remembered having the best time in his class and I took away so many great memories. My deepest condolences to family and friends - he touched many many young lives and I thank him for that.

Tammy Shults

February 12, 2016

My thoughts and prayers go out to Bob's family. Bob and I taught together at Sutter Park. One of my fourth grade students needed a little help with grooming and sometimes came to school wearing unclean clothes. Bob "adopted" this student and would let him clean up in the mornings, even shared his cologne. Many mornings Bob would have spare clothes on hand and would wash this student's clothes at school. Bob was loved by all the students and staff at Sutter!

David and Marianne Smith

February 12, 2016

Doni, so sorry to here about Bob's passing. I loved Bob's friendship and humor. He was a great guy! He will always have a special place in my heart! Played many a round of golf with Bob. Prayers to you and your family.

Jan Mason

February 12, 2016

He was a special teacher and to all the kids at Sutter Park. He was kind and a sweet man.

Andrea Amersdorfer (hysell)

February 12, 2016

I started going to Sutter park for kg when it opened and from the time I can remember Mr Pritchard was always fun and awesome. He made gym class fun. He was my gym teacher for all 7 years. It brings back memories seeing the names here that I also had. My condolences to his family.

Heidi Gamble

February 11, 2016

When it came time to pick ANY Worthington staff member to give you your high school diploma, I asked Mr Pritchard. He even came to my graduation party at my house and the neighborhood kids came to him like he was king!

I regularly think of him when I'm coaching and helping in sports. Not only did he help in gym class, but he helped me have faith in myself for life.

Thanks for allowing me to participate and encouraging me to win all my field day ribbons!!!

Beth Cullinan

February 11, 2016

We also taught together at Sutter Park for years. Bob was such a sweetheart, and he sure did love his family! I am so sorry for your loss. I have very fond memories of "Pritch".

Brenda Leary

February 11, 2016

Doni, Jill, and family, I am so very sorry. I taught across the hall from Bob for almost 20 years. He was a sweet guy, and the kids loved him so much. I will never forget the square dance units we taught together. He loved to watch the kids square dance, and loved the music. He loved life, and found fun in every ordinary day. Jill, he was so proud of you, and rightly so. Prayers for my dear friend, Bob, and for the family.

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Funeral services provided by:

Moreland Funeral Home - Westerville

55 E. Schrock Road, Westerville, OH 43081

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