Robert Johnston Bainbridge

Robert Johnston Bainbridge, 89, died December 3, 2022, in the Allentown home that he designed and built for his family and where he enjoyed living for nearly 60 years. Born in West Hazleton, PA, he was the son of the late John H. and Rada (Lansdell) Bainbridge. A record-setting multi-sport athlete and class president, he graduated from West Hazleton High School in 1952 and then served in the US Navy aboard the USS Carter Hall (LSD-3) during the Korean War, returning to marry his high school sweetheart the late E. Jane (Brandau). Although a 1959 graduate of the Lewis Hotel Training School, Washington, DC, he instead pursued a career as an insurance adjuster, retiring from the General Adjustment Bureau. He was raised a 32° Master Mason at Greenleaf Lodge No. 561. He was a member of the Valley of Allentown Scottish Rite since 1975 and an active member of the Rajah Shrine, Reading, PA. Devoted to the needs of children with orthopedic challenges, he was a past-president of the Hospital Services Unit for the Rajah Shrine and worked tirelessly to shuttle patients and their families to Shriners Children's, Philadelphia. He also publicized the hospital network as a correspondent for TV promotions. As a member of the Forks of the Delaware Tin Lizzies, he spread joy appearing in parades as Dazzle the Clown or driving a Tin Lizzie, and he baked dozens of shoofly pies for fundraisers. He was a Department of the Navy VIP and guest speaker at the ceremony christening the USS Bainbridge (DDG-96), a highlight of his life. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Allentown and Mercantile Club, Emmaus.

He is survived by his daughter Lori J. Bainbridge (Glen V. Mone), Philadelphia, and son Matthew J. Bainbridge (Pamela), Jonesville, LA. He was preceded in death by siblings John (Jack) Bainbridge and Noralynne (Bainbridge) Balay.

A calling hour, Fri., Dec 9, 6:00-7:30 PM, will be held at J.S. Burkholder Funeral Home, 1601 W. Hamilton St, Allentown, www.jsburkholder.com. On Sat., Dec. 10, First Presbyterian Church of Allentown, 3231 W. Tilghman St, Allentown, there will be a calling hour 9:30-10:30 AM in the chapel, with service to follow. In lieu of flowers, please contribute in his memory to Shriners Children's c/o Rajah Shrine, PO Box 40, Blandon, PA 19510.