Robert Dean Heflin

Robert Dean Heflin, of Elyria, Ohio passed away at the age of 72. A man of dignity who always preferred to be called Robert, he leaves behind a legacy of family devotion and a wide circle of cherished friends.
Born on September 11, 1953 in Oberlin, Ohio, Robert remained deeply rooted in the Lorain County community he loved for nearly his entire life. For many years, his powerful voice was a mainstay of his church choir, where he shared his talent and faith through song. Robert was also a master in the kitchen, expressing his deepest affection through food. He was legendary for his pierogies, a labor of love that earned him the affectionate nickname "Uncle Pierogi." In his later years, Robert found a new calling that brought him and his community immense joy: playing Santa Claus. With a natural warmth, he visited local schools to bring magic to the children, embodying the spirit of Christmas for everyone he met.
Robert found his greatest happiness at the center of a lively table with "The Lunch Bunch" where he was known as their "Prayer Warrior". He shared a special, lifelong bond with his dear friends Chris and Lori Stack, and in recent years cherished the close friendship of Sue and Mark Nugent and special companionship with Susie Wertenberger, along with all of his many other friends, the list too long to include. These bonds, built on laughter and camaraderie, were the heartbeat of his social life.
Robert's greatest pride was his family. He is survived by his two sons, Aaron Heflin (wife Tammy) and Mark Heflin (wife Jackie); and his ex-wife, Adrienne Durrett. He was a proud grandfather to Kaitlyn Heflin, Matthew Heflin and Sebastian Heflin. He also embraced his role in a large, extended family, acting as a grandfather figure to Alex, Caitlyn, Brianna, Gabby, and Thomas.
He will be deeply missed by his surviving sister Stephanie Heflin Ilcisko and her husband Tom; his nieces, Kyle Ilcisko (daughter Aria) and Kelli Sunseri and her husband Michael (children Caleb and Layla). Robert's life was further enriched by his half-siblings and their spouses: David and Karen Heflin, Marcia and Dan Fleming, and Dianne and Steve Sanders, as well as many extended relatives.
Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Norma Boyle and stepfather James Boyle, and William Heflin and stepmother Marion Heflin.
A private celebration of Robert's life for friends and family—and likely a story or two shared over a good meal—will be held on a later date. In honor of his memory, the family encourages you to gather your own "Lunch Bunch" or share a home-cooked meal with someone you love.