Obituaries

Robert M. Spinazzola

08/16/1934 - 12/22/2021

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Obituary For Robert M. Spinazzola

Robert M. Spinazzola Aug. 16, 1934-Dec. 22, 2021

Robert M. Spinazzola, 87, Rehoboth Beach, formerly of Altoona, passed away peacefully in his sleep in the early hours Wednesday, at the Brandywine Living at Seaside Pointe in Rehoboth Beach, DE. He was the son of the late Michael and Viola (Russo) Spinazzola and was born on August 16, 1934, in Altoona, PA. He was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Phyllis (Collins) Spinazzola.

A graduate of Altoona High School and the Pennsylvania State University, Bob began his professional career as a biology teacher in the Altoona Area School District but was soon attracted to developing business professionals through the Dale Carnegie Training. He retired in 2001 after successfully operating his own Dale Carnegie franchise across 50 counties of Pennsylvania.

He had a passion for his family, boating on the three rivers and the Chesapeake Bay, and was at his best when he was taking care of others in his family or community. He was a long-standing member of the Rotary Club of Altoona and the St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church.

He is survived by his sister Joann Heberling and her husband Joel of Pittsboro, North Carolina; brother Angelo Spinazzola and his wife Lucy; son Robert Stephen Spinazzola and his wife Pat of Phoenix, Maryland; son Robert Michael Spinazzola, II and his husband Jim Testerman of Rehoboth Beach, DE; grandson Brian Spinazzola; nieces Janelle Gentilini and Susan Detwiler; and nephews Michael Detwiler and Michael Spinazzola.

Friends will be received from 4 to 6 PM, Wednesday, December 29, 2021, at The Stevens Mortuary, Inc., 1421 8th Ave., Altoona, PA 16602. A funeral Mass will be celebrated Thursday, Dec. 30, 2021 at 11:00 AM at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, with Msgr. Michael Becker, celebrant. Committal will be held at Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages memorial contributions be made in Bob’s memory to the food pantry of Society of St. Vincent de Paul, PO Box 231, Altoona, PA 16603.

Condolences may be made at www.stevensfamilyfuneralhomes.com or Stevens Family Funeral Homes Facebook.

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Condolences

  • 01/01/2022

    My most sincere condolences on your loss. Bob was a legend in the Dale Carnegie world. Bob retired a few years after I joined the business, and I only met him a few times - but I feel like I knew him through all of the stories I've heard about him from others who were fortunate enough to know him. I think about the thousands of people whose lives were impacted, directly or indirectly, by Bob through his work. He truly made a mark on this world.

  • 12/30/2021

    Steve, Rob and extended family - sad news to hear of Bob's passing. As a Dale Carnegie franchise, I always looked up to Bob, he possessed a warmth and desire to share experiences and assist others. A truly special man will live on in our memories. Your in our prayers and thoughts.

  • 12/29/2021

    Steve, Rob and the entire family...I was very sorry to read of your dad's passing...I know he is with your beautiful mom who many times he referred to her as Angel. I used to help your mom and dad. Great people. I won't be able to make it the services since I'm now located in Virginia. Praying for you all. Lisa Ecker

  • 12/27/2021

    My deepest sympathies for Bob's passing. He was a giant in the Dale Carnegie business and a humble leader tp so many. I have nothing but great memories of him. Prayers to you all, Steve Hanes

  • 12/25/2021

    Rob.. Steve and families... so very sorry to hear of Bob's passing... we shared so many wonderful times over 40 plus years... loved when he came to Pittsburgh and stayed with us...always so even tempered and willing to bring out the best in everyone he mentored... Love and Prayers...Pete and Gerry Graziotto

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