Obituary of Robert Speece



Bob was born August 17, 1937, in Leithsville, Pennsylvania. He was of six children born to Frank and Myrtle Speece. Bob attended Dobbins High School in Philadelphia, and graduated in 1955. After high school Bob enlisted in the Marine Corps where he was stationed at Parris Island, Camp Lejune, and Quantico. During his time at Quantico, Bob worked in the base print shop, where he achieved the rank of Corporal. After serving 4 years in the Marines, Bob was honorably discharged from the Corps in 1961.



After his discharge Bob went to work in the field in which he gained training in the Marines. He worked as a typesetter for Lutheran Publications, Sun Printing, and Suburban Graphics among other companies.



On February 11, 1961 Bob married Nancy Rauscher at Hope Lutheran Church in the Tacony Section of Philadelphia. During their twenty five years of marriage, Bob and Nancy had three children, Kim, Robert Jr. and David. The family resided in the Academy Gardens section of Northeast Philadelphia. Bob and Nancy were married until June of 1986 when Nancy passed away.



On July 1, 1995 Bob married Tysa Gair of Williamsport, Pennsylvania. They were married at St David's Lutheran Church in Northeast Philadelphia. They resided in Northeast Philadelphia until his death.





Bob's life centered on family and religion. He loved them both. Some of Bob's fondest memories were of time spent with his wives, children and grandchildren. He always had a special place in his heart for children. He loved them and they loved him. It was not unusual to find Bob on the floor somewhere playing games with the many children in his life.

Bob also enjoyed his camping trips and picnics with his children and grandchildren.

Bob was a member of many different churches over the years and he left his mark on each of them. Many of his lifelong friends were from these congregations.



Bob had a strong work ethic. In his later years, Bob did not slow down. He worked part time up until a few weeks before his death. In his spare time Bob did volunteer work, helped around the church and his children's homes, and spent time with family and friends.

Bob died peacefully in his home on December 28, 2015.

In addition to his wife, he leaves his 3 children: Kimberly Ann Greenberg and her husband Gary of Cinnaminson, NJ, Robert W. Speece and his wife Diane of Troy, NY and David E. Speece of Philadelphia, PA. His stepdaughter: Tami J. Olexa and her husband Stephen of Hatboro, PA. His grandchildren: Elyssa N. and Brandon R. Greenberg; Brendan D., Moira J. and Ryan J. Olexa. His siblings: Doris Mayes and Ruth Kelly as well as many nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Bob's viewing on Monday January 4, 2016 from 12 PM followed by his funeral service at 1PM officiated by Pastor Ian McConnell of Grace City Church at Kirk and Nice Suburban Chapel 333 County Line Rd., Feasterville, PA 19053. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, a contribution in Bob's memory may be made to the Grace City Church 8950 Ashton Rd., Philadelphia, PA 19136.

Family Service by the Kirk & Nice Suburban Chapel of Feasterville, PA