Robert F. Carothers

1920 - 2020

Robert F. Carothers
Daugherty Township - Robert F. Carothers, 100, of Daugherty Twp., died Thursday, December 10, 2020, due to Covid-19 complications at Heritage Valley Beaver.
Born May 29, 1920, in Youngstown, OH, he was the son of the late Evart and Lena (Bowman) Carothers. Robert, "Bob" as he was known to his friends, was born during the last wave of the Spanish Flu Pandemic, grew up during the Great Depression, and graduated from New Brighton High School in 1938. During World War II, he served in Patton's Third Army Headquarters, Ordnance Division, in America's fight in the European Theatre. Utilizing his G.I. Bill, he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Engineering from the University of Pittsburgh in 1950. Prior to retiring as the Principle Estimator in 1983, Bob traveled around the world developing business and projects for Dravo Corporation. It was not, however, for these accomplishments that he wished to be remembered. What truly defined Bob's life was his service to God and the church. He preferred to be remembered for being the church treasurer for over 30 years, a deacon, and deacon emeritus for the First Baptist Church of New Brighton. He also taught Sunday School there for many years. He was a member of The Gideons International and delivered Meals on Wheels until he was 94 years old. Before WWII, he was involved in the formation of Jumonville Camp, a Christian camp and retreat center south of Pittsburgh, and was present at the first dedication meeting. He was a charter member of Christians United in Beaver County, attending their very first meeting, and remained involved for decades. Bob continued to be physically active his entire life, riding roller coasters, parasailing, and zip-lining into his 90's. As an avid walker, he was a familiar and much-loved face in his New Brighton community, where he could be found strolling through his neighborhood up to three times a day until his lockdown due to Covid restrictions. Robert led a life well-lived: steadfast, immovable, and always abounding in the work of the Lord.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ruth (Rose) Carothers; four brothers, Sheldon, William, Roy, and Carl Carothers; and a sister, Marie Powers.
He is survived by his sons, Donald (Linda) Carothers and David (Vickie) Carothers; six grandchildren, Amy (Gregg) Gnipp, Evelyn (Josh) Kaszer, Darcy (Ben) Davenport, Matthew Carothers, Sarah (Jacob) Hockman, and Nathan Carothers; four great-grandchildren, Haley, Riley, Gracen, and Jesse; and several nieces and nephews.
Due to the pandemic, all services were held privately for the family. Robert's final resting place will be at Sylvania Hills Memorial Park, Rochester, PA. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Arrangements were handled by Gabauer Funeral Home, 1133 Penn Ave., New Brighton, PA. www.gabauerfamilyfuneralhomes.com. Memorial contributions, if desired, may be given in Robert's name to the First Baptist Church, 315 8th Avenue, New Brighton, PA 1506