Robert "Bob" F. Hoersdig Jr.

Robert “Bob” F. Hoersdig Jr., 78, of Columbus, Ohio, passed away on October 19, 2025 — probably after telling one last great story. 

Bob proudly served his country with the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War, where he developed his lifelong appreciation for structure, teamwork, and a properly ironed shirt. A proud graduate of Columbus South High School (Class of 1965) — where he served as class president — and Franklin University, Bob went on to retire as a USPS Labor Relations Specialist for the Allegheny area. He was a man who knew how to get things done, and more importantly, how to connect with people while doing it. 

As a member of University Baptist Church, Bob held one of the most coveted positions in Columbus: Parking Lot Czar for OSU home football games. Armed with a smile, a sweater vest, and complete authority over who got the “good spots,” he turned game days into an art form. The parking lot may never run as smoothly again.

Bob was also a lifelong member of Charity Newsies — giving back to the same organization that had once helped him as a child. He was a 25-year volunteer with the Columbus Symphony Picnic with the Pops. He believed in the power of community, service, and a little bit of friendly mischief and beautiful music to make life brighter. 

A competitor and coach at heart, Bob was deeply involved in Columbus Parks and Recreation adult sports leagues. Whether he was playing, coaching, or officiating, he was there for the camaraderie, the stories, and a resolute belief in a sound 2-3 zone defense. 

He could hold a conversation on just about any topic — sports, politics, business, or his favorite: “back in the day on the South end.” Bob’s storytelling could fill a room, a car ride, or 18 holes of golf (and usually did). In later years, he loved time on the course with his oldest friends — though the clubhouse before and after the round was where the real magic happened. 

Bob’s humor, generosity, and gift for connection will be deeply missed — but never forgotten. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, loyalty, and love that will live on in every story retold in his honor. 

Bob is preceded in death by his parents, Robert F. Hoersdig Sr. and Ruth Ann Strobel; brothers, Steven Hoersdig and Eugene Dorman; grandson Richard Griffin; and maternal grandparents, Dorothy and Dolphie White. 

He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Roberta “Bobbi” Hoersdig; children, Amy Rebecca Hoersdig, Lori (Kelly) Seymour, Rob (Amy) Hoersdig, Jeff (Kelly) Hoersdig, Gabe Griffin, Chad Griffin, and Justin (Leisha) Griffin; 12 grandchildren: Chris, Diona, Sarah, Victoria, Emma, Jade, Chloe, Sophie, Nic, Megan, Jovian, and Finley. 4 great-grandchildren: Avery, Leia, Leland, Gwendolyn; sisters, Natalie Walden and Virginia Marshall; sister-in-Law, Karen Dorman and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends — all of whom carry a favorite “Bob story.” 

Family will receive friends Sunday, October 26, 2025, from 1 to 5 p.m. at GRAUMLICH FUNERAL HOME, 1351 S. High St., Columbus, Ohio 43207. Funeral service will be held Monday, October 27, 2025, at 11 a.m. (visitation one hour prior) at University Baptist Church, 50 W. Lane Ave., Columbus, Ohio 43201, with Adam Davis, Senior Pastor officiating. Interment with military honors to follow at Union Cemetery, Columbus, Ohio. 

Those who wish may direct memorial contributions to University Baptist Church, 50 W. Lane Ave., Columbus, Ohio 43201 or Ohio Health Hospice, www.ohiohealth.com/ohiohealth-foundation. And if you really want to honor Bob — tell a great story, laugh loudly, help someone in need, and never take life too seriously. To sign Bob’s online guest book and leave a condolence for his family, please visit www.graumlichfuneralhome.com