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ROBERT LEVINS Obituary

LEVINS ROBERT JOSEPH Age, 77, passed away at home on August 20, 2021 surrounded by his loving wife Helen, and children. Robert was born in Philadelphia to Francis and Charlotte Levins at Pennsylvania Hospital, April 17, 1944 and his first home was 123 Elfreth's Alley. As the Levins family grew, they moved to the East Oak Lane section of the city. Bob graduated from Olney High School in 1962. During Bob's high school years he and his brother Frank were "regulars" on Dick Clark's American Bandstand. In November 1962, Bob enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and completed his training at Camp Lejuene, SC. Bob was a member of the Philadelphia Police Department from 1964 to 1995. The Levins family was well represented in the Philadelphia Police community. Bob's Father, Frank, served for over 30 years, brothers, Jerry, Tom and Michael, brother-in-law, Frank Manny and Uncle Thomas as well as his sister-in-law Theresa all served and held various ranks in the Philadelphia Police Department. Bob received numerous promotions during his career and retired at the rank of Police Inspector. During his time in the Police Department, he worked in many different assignments from Patrol, Investigations, Administration, Anti Crime Tactical (ACT), Civil Affairs and Internal Affairs. Bob also worked closely with former Police Commissioner Richard Neal. In 1995, Bob was appointed as the Director of Security and Safety at LaSalle University in Philadelphia. This was a rewarding position. Bob obtained his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice from LaSalle University (graduated Magna Cum Laude) and is also a Graduate of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. During Bob's career in the Philadelphia Police Department, he received numerous awards, including a Heroism Commendation, Bravery Commendation, and numerous Community Service awards. Bob moved to Stone Harbor in 2003, and began a successful home security business. In addition, he served on the Board of the Stone Harbor Realty owner's Association; Trustee and docent, as well as Sgt. of Arms of the American Legion Post 331, as well as a Trustee and docent of the Stone Harbor Museum. Bob also served as a member of the Stone Harbor Borough Council as well as a Republican Committee Leader. Bob's many hobbies included tennis, entirely restoring his Stone Harbor home, which was built in 1911, motorcycling, ballroom dancing, taking long walks on the beach with his wife, Helen, and their dog, Gracie, then, Bonnie. He enjoyed watching basketball and watching the History channel. His most enjoyment was spending time with his grandchildren; wonderful memories for all! Bob is survived by his loving wife Helen (nee Brown), his children, Elizabeth Ligato (Anthony); Robert Levins (Sheri); Suzanne Gutin (Barry) and Francis Levins (Sheree). Bob is also survived by his grandchildren: Anthony Ligato (Kayla – fiancé), Nicholas Ligato, John Day, Erica and Robert (Nolan) Levins, Shayna and Harrison Gutin and Francis and Sarah Levins. Bob's siblings include Mary Hemphill (deceased) (Ken), Frank Levins (deceased) (Elisabeth), Charlotte Wolfe (Carl), Thomas Levins (deceased) (Theresa), Gerard Levins (Barbara Paul), Michael Levins (Cheryle), Richard Levins (Katherine). Bob is also survived by his first wife Eleanor and many nieces and nephews. Family and friends are invited to his Funeral Services at JOHN F. GIVNISH OF ACADEMY RD., 10975 Academy Road, Phila. on Saturday, August 28th. Viewing from 11:00 A.M. - 1:00 P.M. followed by services at 1:00 P.M. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Animal Aid USA at 200 Springdale Lane, Williamstown, NJ 08094 and the Cape May County Animal Welfare Society at 40 Route 47 S, Cape May Court House, NJ 08210. A most heartfelt thanks to those at Holy Redeemer Hospice, which a private donation will be made. A local service and luncheon will be held in Stone Harbor, NJ at a later date. www.lifecelebration.com

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

Published by The Philadelphia Inquirer on Aug. 26, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for ROBERT LEVINS

Sponsored by John F Givnish Funeral Home - Academy Rd.

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Sherry Nelson

December 25, 2021

I'm sorry to learn of Bob's passing. I remember Bob, Eleanor & their kids from our old neighborhood at Grant & Academy. I used to babysit the kids.My condolences to the whole family.

Betty Jane Gallagher

September 15, 2021

To Helen and To all of the family, My husband John worked with Bob in the Police Department and at LaSalle University. I'm very saddened by this news. Bob was a good friend to John and a wonderful, kind person. We need more like him in this world. God Bless you all, you have my Prayers and Condolences

Joan Kramar

September 12, 2021

My dear Helen & family
I was heartbroken to hear Bob had passed away
What a pleasure it was to serve on Council with him
He truly was one of a kind, a perfect gentleman and a caring soul
He will be missed by many
Prayers for all of you

John Brown

August 30, 2021

My memories of Bob will always be someone who was truly a caring person and always made me feel welcomed. His kind heart and caring nature will be missed.

Debbie and Bob Pantano

August 27, 2021

Suzanne and Family,
We are extremely sorry for the loss of your dad. He was a wonderful man, dedicating many years of service to our country and our community. Our deepest condolences to you and your family.

Gary Barbera

August 27, 2021

I never had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Levins however I've had the pleasure of knowing Suzanne. The apple doesn't fall far from the tree; Suzanne is a wonderful wife, mother, and friend. Mr. Levins obviously was a leader worth following. Thank you for your service for our country and for the City of Philadelphia. From the Barbera family to yours, our condolences for your loss. May the happy memories soon outweigh your tears.

Roland Carbonetta

August 26, 2021

I used to go up to the Phila. Police Academy in the evenings to work out in the gym & I would see Bob working out. He introduced himself to me one night as Bob. Once in awhile we exchange some tips on working out or on current events. He never mentioned he was an Inspector. Someone who knew I used to use the Academy' gym asked me if I ever saw Inspector Levins up there. When he described him to me I realized who he was talking about. When I saw him again I asked him why he had never told me his rank. He said under the circumstances he didn't think it was important. He was a real gentleman.

Andrew Nuyianes Jr

August 26, 2021

Sorry for your loss. Bob was friend from our Olney gang. We had some great experiences hanging out together.

Andy Nuyianes Jr

Dottie Mooney White

August 26, 2021

I'm so sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. I have fond memories of you all growing up. May he rest in peace.

Bill Weaver

August 25, 2021

Sorry to hear of Bob’s passing, he was a great guy to work with and a fine supervisor, worked with Bob in early to mid 80’s in the 2nd District. My thoughts and prayers are with him and the Levins family.May he Rest In PeaceMy sincerest condolences Bill Weaver

Charles Hentz

August 25, 2021

Bob and I were in the same police academy class together. that is where we first met. He was high score on the pistol qualification range with a score of 96. His badge number was #5078, and mine was #4779. We both walked beats for Christmas in center city, and then were assigned to the 25th District, 3 Squad. We worked together for 5 years. I remember when Bob broke his leg after roll call, all the circumstances. His brother was assigned to the 25th and helped me and a couple of officer subdue a prisoner where he also broke his leg, very bad break. However, the Levin boys were cops cops, as was their father, whom I also knew when he drove Mayor Tate. Bob came to my house in Northfield, NJ for lunch after he retired to the Jersey Shore. I moved to the Pocono's and we lost touch. God Bless my dear friend!

Kim Dombrowski

August 25, 2021

Sending heartfelt condolences to all of Bob's family and friends during this difficult time. I will keep him and all of you in my prayers. Sending love and hugs to everyone.

Kenneth CONWELL

August 24, 2021

To THE LEVIND FAMILY SORRY FOR THE LOSS OF YOUR BROTHER, READING THE OBIT SEEMS HE HAD A NICE BIG FAMILY RETIRED IN TO A NICE CITY AND GOT TO SPEND SOME TIME IN PEACE AND QUITE WALKING THE BEACH WITH PEOPLE AND FRIENDS HE LOVED .

THE BEST MEMORIES OF MY LIFE ARE FROM THAT PARISH OF ST.
HELENA S .WE ALL HAVE TO TAKE
THIS LIFE "ONE DAY AT ATIME" .
LOVE

Karen Holmes

August 24, 2021

Sending my deepest sympathy to entire The Levins Family in the passing of Robert. I'm praying for you. ❤
A friend of Mike and Cheryle Levins

Karen Mangold

August 24, 2021

Very sorry to hear of Bob's passing, he was a great man and an even better boss. Prayers to your family

Andrew (Iggy) Ungaro

August 24, 2021

A Very Stoic Gentleman, as I always remembered Mr. Levins.. He SURE did raise a crew of children in Grant and Academy (G&A) that I have been Lifelong Friends with, each in their and our own way... My Sincere Condolences to the Entire Family! May he Rest in Peace!

Chuck Meissler

August 24, 2021

Great Boss and an even better Man. A great loss.

Leslie Hamada Hamada

August 24, 2021

What an incredible life Bob had! We
So enjoyed Bob's company when we all
would go out to eat at Villa Maria or The Rocking Chair in Avalon. He was a good
listener and came out with a few zingers when was least expected. He enjoyed coming to the birthday soirées we had down there. He was
A true gentleman! We will remember him fondly.

Tom McCullough

August 24, 2021

Bob, Always positive, one dedicated officer, member and Sgt. of Arms of American Legion Post 331, SHNJ My Friend, go to guy and great person to kick around thoughts and ideas. We enjoyed each other and Bob will be truly missed by many on his beloved Seven Mile Island. Rest In Peace Bob God Bless.

Robert Cianflone

August 24, 2021

It's with great sadness to hear of Bob's passing. I remember him fondly as I worked for him in the PPD when he was in the patrol division and again years later when he was director of the safety/security department at LaSalle University. He was a very laid back boss and treated everyone with respect and kindness. While on vacation a few years ago, I tracked him down in Stone Harbor and was so glad to have spent a few hours with him & Helen. My thoughts and prayers go out to Helen & his whole family. Bob Cianflone

Jimmy Narke

August 24, 2021

I will miss our buddy from our Olney crowd. We had great times growing up together. See you on the other side Bob.

Bob Ashman

August 24, 2021

Bob was a great man and a good friend to many in Stone Harbor, he will be missed. Prayers are with Helen and his family at this time of loss.
Bob Ashman

Stephen Cohen

August 24, 2021

So sorry for your loss my deepest condolences to you and your family!!

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Memorial Events
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Aug

28

Service

11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

John F. Givnish Life Celebration Home

10975 Academy Road, Philadelphia, PA 19154

Aug

28

Service

1:00 p.m.

John F. Givnish Life Celebration Home

10975 Academy Road, Philadelphia, PA 19154

Funeral services provided by:

John F Givnish Funeral Home - Academy Rd

10975 Academy Rd, Philadelphia, PA 19154

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