Robert C. Ashbaugh Jr.

Robert “Bob” C. Ashbaugh, Jr., age 69, of Gibsonia, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on Sunday, April 27, 2025.

Son of the late Robert C. and Lilyen (Gerber) Ashbaugh, Sr. Beloved husband of over 51 years to Janet Ashbaugh, his best friend and soulmate, who he loved beyond measure. Devoted father to Robert “Bobby” III (Bridget), Chad, and Dustin (Meghan). Proud “Pap” of Makaylee, Ryan, Vance, Abby, Braden, Autumn and Parker, his seven grandchildren who he nurtured and celebrated in all aspects of their lives. Brother to cherished sisters Jacqueline Szafranski and the late Nancy Lee Ashbaugh. Also survived by many treasured nieces, nephews, and friends.

Bob was a proud member of Steamfitters Local # 449 for over 43 years, retiring as a Superintendent/Project Manager of Ruthrauff Sauer. Bob had many different talents and interests such as hunting, golfing, playing the harmonica, and riding his motorcycle. Referred to as “Bob the Builder”, he could easily construct whatever he envisioned. He was constantly helping his family and friends with all sorts of home-related projects. Above all else, Bob always showed up for his family. He loved being with Janet as they spent time with their grandkids, traveled, enjoyed home keeping, hosting family occasions and raising many Great Dane and West Highland Terrier fur babies together. His kids and grandkids will always remember their family vacations and special trips to Disney World and Isle of Palms, South Carolina. They will never forget Bob and Janet’s efforts to make holidays special, especially every Christmas Eve, when their house rivaled the North Pole and Bob would dress up as the Grinch to pass out matching pajamas and presents to his unsuspecting, excited, and sometimes petrified grandchildren.

Bob will be terribly missed, but his presence and legacy will remain in the wonderful traditions he and Janet so thoughtfully created for their family and the strong example he consistently demonstrated for his children and grandchildren. Bob was strong as an ox and tough as nails, but never more so these last six months, when he did everything he could to continue on for his family. He taught us how to live, honoring faith, hard work, discipline, and reliability in all that he did. And just as importantly, Bob taught us how to pass on, undemanding and accepting, with the grace and peace found in knowing Jesus.

Family and friends are warmly welcomed at the Perman Funeral Home, Inc. 923 Saxonburg Blvd. at Route 8, Shaler Twp. on Tuesday from 2-4 & 6-8. A funeral service in celebration of Bob’s life will be held on Wednesday at 11 AM at New Community Church, 3100 Wexford Rd., Wexford.

We will love you forever, Bob. Our lives will always be for the better in having you as our wonderful husband, father and Pap. The family respectfully suggests donations be made to West Deer Township Dog Shelter, 109 E Union Rd., Cheswick, PA 15024.