Robert J. Finkelston, of Zieglerville, age 86, passed away peacefully on January 1, 2025, at Grand View Hospital surrounded by family. Born in Philadelphia, he was the son of the late John and Anna (née Whitehouse) Finkelston and beloved husband of the late Shirley (née Rohe) Finkelston of 54 years. He graduated from Northeast Catholic High School and then pursued further education at Villanova University, earning both a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering.
Robert was a thoughtful and caring husband, father, and grandfather who made each person feel special and loved in his company. He was a devoted member of St. Mary Roman Catholic Church in Schwenksville, and formerly St. Maria Goretti Catholic Church in Hatfield. He took special joy in the outdoors, gardening, and traveling to his most treasured places, including the Pocono Mountains and Ocean City, NJ. When not spending time with his beloved family and friends, he could be found painting or rooting for the Phillies, Eagles, or Villanova basketball.
Robert will be remembered fondly in all the lives he has touched. He leaves behind a lifetime of love, laughter, and cherished memories.
Surviving are his children Denise (Paul) McGee of Kennesaw, GA, Joan (Walter) Whiteley of Perkiomenville, Robert J. (Loretta) Finkelston, Jr. of Mt. Laurel, NJ, Michael J. (Joanne) Finkelston of Trumbauersville, and Shirley Anne (F. Joseph, Jr.) Loos of Gilbertsville; 14 grandchildren: Lauren (Robert), Elizabeth, Paul, Matthew, Meghan, Daniel, Emma, Anna, Robert, Andrew (Shauna), Eric, Kristina, Frank, and John; and two great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Shirley and granddaughter Kathryn.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his viewing on Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at 10:00 AM at St. Mary Roman Catholic Church, 40 Spring Mount Road, Schwenksville, PA 19473. Funeral Mass immediately following at 11:30 AM. Interment at St. John Neumann Cemetery.
For those desiring, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Robert’s memory to the St. Mary Conference of St. Vincent de Paul Society c/o St. Mary Roman Catholic Church at the address above.
Our deepest condolences to Rob & Loretta, Robert and the extended Finkelston family. His legacy of his children & passing on his values is a testament to his character. May he rest in the Peace of Christ & May you all be comforted in your loss by his memory until you meet again. Prayers for the repose of his soul.
I had the privilege to visit with Bob with our Saint Mary Junior Legion of Mary and each month at Frederick. He loved showing us all his artwork & remembering his wife. He was quite an artist!! He was such a kind & gentle soul. We will miss him immensely.
Though we had not met Robert, Sr., we have been blessed to know Robert’s gracious son Robert for 30 years. Such a son is a tribute to a wonderful father! Many prayers for the family.
– The Maffei’s and Horton’s (NJ)
It was truly a pleasure to a part of the care team for Bob! I remember clearly that Friday when I first met Bob and Joan at Frederick Living, and I immediately felt that blessed connection, with Bob’s humility and level of respect!
My prayers of thanksgiving are for Bob’s life well lived! My condolences and prayers are with Joan; Denise; Shirley; Robert; Michael, their spouses; children and grandchildren. Bob’s love; legacy and fond memories will forever be etched in our hearts! Blessed are those who mourn for they shall be comforted.