Robert Eugene ‘Bob’ Messner

Robert Eugene "Bob" Messner, 62, Roaring Spring, died Sunday morning at the home of Lisa and Wayne Moore, with whom he resided, after a long battle with esophageal cancer.

He was born in Bellwood, son of Vivian (Fisher) Messner and the late Robert W. "Mac" Messner.

Surviving are his mother of Bellwood; four children: Erik and wife, Elise, of Roaring Spring, Wendy Dorsey and husband, Jason, of Austin, Texas, Robyn of Claysburg and Michael and fiancee, Becca Leinert, of Harrisburg; five grandchildren: Tre, Evan, Gage, Dalen and Elaina; three brothers: Roger and wife, Jeanene, Denny and wife, Barbara, and Mack and wife, Karen, all of Bellwood; and his former wife, Shirley Smalley of Newry.

He was preceded in death by a daughter, Holly Cheryl; a sister, Cheryl Anne; and his significant other, Linda Weirbeach.

Robert served his country in the U.S. Army from 1966-70. During that time, he was stationed at Fort Casey in Korea, Camp Darby in Italy and Fort George G. Meade in Maryland.

Bob was a member of the Roaring Spring Mennonite Church. He enjoyed bowling, writing poetry, reading the Bible and spending time with loved ones.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, 2009, at Roaring Spring Mennonite Church, 235 Main St., by Pastor Elsie Gonsman.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Bob's memory may be given to the American Cancer Society.

Arrangements are by Todd T. Thompson Funeral Home Inc., Roaring Spring (www.thompsonfh.com).