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Age 69, of Brookline, after surviving prostate cancer for over ten years, he succumbed to his illness surrounded by his family, on December 13, 2018. James was the husband of 43 years to Denise (Luvara) Robinson; he was the loving father of Daniel (Emily), Devlin, and Andrew (Lauren); Pap Pap of Madelyn and Liam; son of the late James and Jeanne (Hawthorne) Robinson of Dormont; brother of Patricia (the late Mario) Merkle, David (Nancy), Thomas (Jeannie), Karen (John) Kelly, Terence, Coleen, Kevin, Janie (Joseph) Teta, and Kathy (Joseph) Kmonk; also survived by numerous cousins; and many nieces and nephews that were very dear to him and knew him as Uncle Jimmy or Zio James. He was a proud graduate of St. Bernard Elementary (1962), South Catholic High School (1966), Point Park College (1970), and the University of Pittsburgh, with a Master of Arts in the Administration of Justice (1982). Corporal James Robinson honorably served in the United States Marine Corps as a Radio Operator (1970-1976). James then went on to serve the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as a probation and parole officer from 1970-2005, achieving the position of Director of Probation and Parole. He was a proud member of the PA Prison Warden's Association, serving as the organization's Sergeant at Arms. In retirement, James worked for the Pittsburgh Pirates. You may remember his warm greeting as you entered the Lexus Club. James was an avid golfer, joining many leagues, and a proud member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH). Family and friends will be received at the FRANK F. DeBOR FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 1065 Brookline Blvd., 412-561-0380, Monday from 4-8 p.m. and Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in the Church of the Epiphany on Wednesday at 10 a.m. Interment will follow in Queen of Heaven Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Semper Fi Odyssey, 450 Boy Scout Rd., Boswell, PA 15531, in memory of James M. Robinson, an organization where he volunteered his time and services, helping veterans in their transition.
www.deborfuneralhome.com
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L B
January 14, 2019
To the family, you have my sincere condolences. When someone falls asleep in death (Ecclesiastes 9: 5,10) the memories we have of them become our most precious treasure. May those memories comfort you as well as Gods promise at John 6:40.
margaret ellison
January 1, 2019
Goodbye to a true gentlemen, with whom I had many good conversations. He was very helpful to me in my endeavors to research my own Dad's service records. Rest in peace. Margie from PNC Park
December 19, 2018
Thank you for your service, Marine, and rest in peace. We were honored to watch the procession at Epiphany from our offices.
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Rich Morgan
December 18, 2018
Honor, Duty to Country, and the love of his family are the cornerstones by which Jim lived his life. we got to know each other as members of the game day staff at PNC Park and as tour guides.
Nobody and I mean nobody got past JIm unlesss they had the proper tickets or credentials to get into the Lexus Club, and as he told me the first time we met when I used the term ex-Marine.the first time I met him "There is no such Marine as an ex-Marine." But he did cut me some slack when I reminded him my service in the UNited States Navy did at certain times serve as taxi drivers for the Marines.
Every summer we would play golf at least 5 or six times, and I those are the times I will remember most. Jim will be missed by many, and missed even more by his family, which was the center of his life
God Speed my friend
December 18, 2018
A great man who provided many with opportunities and mentorship at the PA Board of Probation/Parole. Our best to Denise and family.
John and Elaine Tuttle
December 18, 2018
My deepest sympathy to Jim's Family. I had the honor to work with Jim when he was Director of Parole Services for the Pa. Board of Parole. He was a very dedicated professional who was able to work effectively with offenders, Parole Agents and Parole Board Members. Rest in Peace Jim. Sean R. Ryan
Tiffany Rocco
December 18, 2018
Rest with the angels Jim. You will be missed.
Tiffany Rocco
December 18, 2018
I had the pleasure of working with Jim as a tour guide at PNC Park. He was a great man and will be missed by all of us. My deepest condolences go out to Jim's family.
Dave Warner
December 17, 2018
My sympathy and condolences to Jim's family. I got to know him through working with the Pirates.
It became obvious how much his family meant to him as we got to know one another. He was a man of great character who be dearly missed.
December 17, 2018
Semper Fi Marine. Thank you for your service.
John Newhouse
December 17, 2018
Peace to my friend and fellow Marine. Farwell to a good guy. Until we meet again.
John Newhouse
December 17, 2018
Jim, a friend, fellow Marine. You will be missed. Until we meet again. God is watching over you now.
December 17, 2018
A great man and patriarch to a wonderful family.All of our prayers and love during this time, Joe Fabus And Family
Cathy & Bob McNeilly
December 16, 2018
With fond memories and deepest sympathy. Your family is in our prayers.
Marty Dragovich
December 16, 2018
Our deepest condolences to Denise, Daniel, Devlin, Andrew and their families on Jim's passing. He fought a very personal battle with prostate cancer displaying uncommon dignity, grace and courage. It ultimately claimed his life but not his spirit and certainly not his soul. He was a genuine friend who I met through the Pennsylvania Prison Wardens Association nearly 35 years ago. Despite the progression of his own illness, his loyal friendship was never more apparent than the deep concern he demonstrated when I had a stroke in 2017. He would call weekly to check in on my progress. It was Jim who got me interested in working for the Phillies 10 years ago in a similar capacity to the work he did post retirement with the Pirates, a job he loved. Twice a year we would meet at PPWA conferences where we were golfing companions and enjoyed the camaraderie of the hospitality suite. Our conversations often turned to family and it was apparent he was extremely proud of his sons, their accomplishments and their service to their country and community, and of course the love of his life, Denise. Rest easy my friend, your legacy lives on in the many lives you touched. Marty and Kathy Dragovich
Robert McNeilly
December 16, 2018
Jim was an example of what makes this country great. He was an honorable man, a devoted husband and father, and a man dedicated to serving the community through his military service and his service to the State in his profession. I am so glad to call him a friend and a brother marine as we were in Parris Island at the same time. He now guards the streets of heaven. Until we meet again, Semper Fi brother.
Father Rodney Torbic
December 16, 2018
May God give rest to Jame's soul and comfort to his family.Jim was a credit to the field of probation and parole.
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1065 Brookline Boulevard, Pittsburgh, PA 15226
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