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Robert J. Prebish, 77, of Altoona, passed away on Christmas Eve after a brief and sudden illness. He was born in Cresson, the son of the late Peter and Mary L. (Padilla) Prebish.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Linda (Merritts) Prebish; his brother and sister-in-law, Paul "Pizzo" and Kathy Prebish; his brother, John J. "Ox" Prebish Sr.; and his brother-in-law, Eugene Merritts.
Bob proudly served in the United States Navy aboard the USS John F. Kennedy, handling munitions, and took great pride in his time in the service, carrying that sense of duty, discipline and patriotism with him throughout his life. He remained longtime friends with his Navy buddy, Phil Noe.
Surrounded by family and friends, Bob and his late brothers were honored with a plaque on the Wall of Honor at the Cresson American Legion. This was an extremely proud moment for the baby brother of the Prebish boys!
He was a graduate of Cresson Joint High School. Robert continued meeting his classmates for lunch for many years and was looking forward to his 60th class reunion next year.
Robert worked for more than 30 years at Frye Metal and retired from there after many years of service.
He was a devoted and dedicated caregiver to his beloved wife, Linda, who battled multiple sclerosis for many years. Robert's life was defined by unwavering commitment, quiet sacrifice and soft-spoken strength. He faithfully cared for Linda with patience, dignity and deep compassion, showing the deep love that defined their relationship.
An avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan, Robert's loyalty never wavered. He was often seen at Penn Cambria Football Games cheering on family members, reminiscing about his days as "Beast" when he played football! Bob also cherished the freedom of the open road as a Harley rider.
Family was always central to his life, and he took special pride in being the uncle known for giving the best clothing gifts to his great nieces and nephews. He had impeccable taste, and everyone looked forward to Uncle Bob's gifts!
Robert is survived his sisters-in-law, Priscilla "Patti" (George) Prebish and Virginia (Larry) Kost; nieces and nephews: Pattilynn Harris and husband, P.J.; John Prebish Jr. and wife, Lisa (Patterson); Melissa Plazek and husband, Jeff; Jeff Prebish and wife, Terese; Anne (Prebish) Newhall and husband, Rick; Mark Prebish and wife, Heather; Alicia Moore and husband, Tom; and Jason Kost. There are also 10 great-nieces and great-nephews: Billy (Lacie) Borlie; Becky (Dustin) Oldham; Jeremy, Justin and Mackenzie Harris; Tyler (Angela), Bailey and Malia Prebish; Ethan and Adam Newhall; Claire (Brian) Newhall Ferrarotti; Kevin (Ashley) and Ian Prebish; Ella and Lily Prebish; Hannah and Connor Plazek; and several great-great-nieces and nephews.
Robert will be remembered for his gentle presence, unwavering loyalty and the quiet strength he carried without needing recognition. Christmas Eve, which he traditionally spent attending Midnight Mass, will forever hold special meaning for those who loved him.
Friends and family will be received from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 2, 2026, at Rose Hill Funeral & Cremation Care Inc., 118 Rosehill Cemetery Drive, Altoona.
A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026, at St. Rose of Lima, 5519 Sixth Ave., Altoona, with the Very Rev. John Lynam, celebrant. Burial at Alto-Reste Park, Altoona. Military honors will be provided by the Blair County Honor Guard.
Condolences may be made at RoseHillFuneralCare.com.