Robert Tawse

TAWSE, Dr. Robert W., 84, of Betner Drive, Mansfield, Ohio and Sun City Center, Fla., died Wednesday, October 11, 2006, in MedCentral Mansfield Hospital following a long illness. He was born July 9, 1922 in Mansfield to William W. and Elsie Dunnick Tawse, and was a graduate of Mansfield Senior High School. After receiving his degree from Denison University, he completed his medical degree at Cornell University. An U.S. Navy veteran, Robert served as a resident physician on the naval base at Charleston, S.C. during World War II. Dr. Tawse returned to Mansfield, where he set up his practice in 1953 with Dr. Hal Wiedemer. Their urology practice served Mansfield General Hospital, Peoples Hospital, as well as hospitals in the surrounding counties. Throughout his life, he served the community on several professional associations and boards. Bob was a member of the Richland County Medical Society, the Medical Staff of Mansfield General Hospital, as well as hospitals in surrounding counties. He was a member on the Board of Directors at both Mansfield Memorial Homes, and Peoples Hospital. Bob's true passion was aviation. He became a pilot at the age of 15. He designed and built airplanes, sailplanes, and radio control airplanes. He participated with several aviation organizations including the Flying Physicians Association, Soaring Society of America, and Richland Aviation. As a sailplane pilot he set both long distance and altitude records. In recent years, he was a member of the Mansfield Electronic Remote Control Flyers and the Sun City Center Radio Control Flyers. He was a member of both First Congregational Church and Sun City Center United Community Church. Bob was also on the board of the New Wimauma Homes. He is survived by his children and their spouses, Nancy Tawse Tankersley of Denver, Colo., Robert W. and Jackie Tawse of State College, Pa., Merrill and Sally Tawse of Lucas, Ohio and Stephanie Tawse Fine and Steve Fine, of Deerfield, Ill.; nine grandchildren; and close friend Charlotte Robinson. Robert was preceded in death by his loving wife, Martha Merrill Tawse January 14, 2004, and a sister Mary Bissman. Friends may call 1-3 p.m. Saturday, October 14, 2006, in the Snyder Funeral Home, 2553 Lexington Avenue, Mansfield, Ohio 44904, (419) 884-1711, where a memorial service will follow at 3 p.m. The Rev. David Sipes will officiate. Interment will be in Mansfield Cemetery at a later date. Memorial contributions to the Martha Tawse Scholarship Fund for MedCentral College of Nursing may be made at the funeral home. Online condolences to the family may be made by visiting: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com