Robert M. Lippolis

Robert M. Lippolis, a resident of Mayfield and formerly of West Scranton, died Saturday at Allied Heart Hospice, Scranton, after suffering a stroke in October.

Born in Scranton, he was the son of the late William and Ruth Reap Lippolis, a graduate of St. Mary of the Assumption High School, class of 1963, and of the Baptist faith. Prior to his retirement, he worked for many years in the banking field and later as a truck driver.

Bobby was a United States Marine Corps veteran, serving as a sergeant on the front lines of the Vietnam War. It was there that his love for animals grew as he was known as the Pied Piper of his camp. This love continued throughout his life. He always took in and cared for the abandoned animals in his neighborhood. He had a special love and bond with his dog, Sammy, and she was his traveling sidekick and best friend. They were always together and he enjoyed telling stories about their many adventures.

He also enjoyed hiking in the woods, target practice, photography, cycling and doing The New York Times crossword, becoming an expert in all that he took on.

Bobby will be sorely missed by his family and we hope to honor his memory by asking that all that knew him throughout his life offer up a silent prayer and remember his humor and good heart.

Bobby is survived by his wife, Katrina Haywood Lippolis, Jacksonville, Fla.; his sisters, Nancy Lippolis, Peckville; and Judie Cusimano, Sugarloaf, Calif.; a brother, William "Chip" Lippolis, Jessup, Md.; stepmother, Shirley Jones Lippolis, Scranton; stepbrothers, Dean Villani, Binghamton, N.Y.; and Victor Villani, Scranton; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Bobby was preceded in death by his sister, Sally Gilson, in 2013; and his brother, Jay Lippolis, in 1978.

The funeral will be Thursday at 10 a.m. at the North Valley Baptist Church, 1300 Old Plank Road, Mayfield, with services conducted by Pastor Scott McGrady. The family will greet friends at the church on Thursday from 9:30 until time of service. Attendees are requested to wear a mask and adhere to social distancing. In keeping with Bobby's wishes, cremation was selected and internment will be at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Griffin Pond Animal Shelter, 967 Griffin Pond Road, South Abington Twp., PA 18411. Services entrusted to the Donahue Funeral Home, 303 S. Main Ave., Scranton, PA 18504.