Robert L. Higley II

Robert L. Higley II, age 56, passed away on December 23, 2024. Bob grew up in Union City, PA, where he was known for challenging reality at the most unexpected moments. Before graduating from high school in 1986, he began his employment at Golden Dawn in Union City and later concluded his career working for several companies in Erie: Don Jon Shipbuilding, Composiflex, and Wegmans.

Bob was preceded in death by his mother and is survived by his wife, four children, father, mother -in-law, sister, sisters and brothers-in-law, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and a wide net community of friends.

A devoted father to his four greatest achievements—his children—Bob proudly wore the titles of “Dad” and “Coach” on several youth sports t-shirts. He excelled at mid-game drop-ins, post-play recaps, late-night scheming sessions, and steadfast call corrections, not to mention a few name reminders, too. Whether coaching youth basketball, baseball, or softball, Bob brought equal parts of encouragement, calculated strategy, full-scale impressions, and questionable umpire antics to the field, leaving behind a legacy of grit, teamwork, and laughable memories for all involved to cherish.

Bob was never one to shy away from rolling up his sleeves in support of community fundraisers and athletic organizations. He served on several boards and was famously known for knowing everyone, everywhere. Bob had the rare ability to turn a quick trip to the grocery store next door into an all-day family reunion. In fact, long before social media became trendy, he mastered the art of staying connected, keeping faraway friends and family closer through quick-witted texts and never-ending conversations on speed dial.

Always ready to pause what he was doing and dive straight into a chat, Bob was a walking reminder that the best moments in life are meant to be shared with others—and the best moments in sports are meant to be cheered or contested. The Union City sports community will undoubtedly feel just a little bit quieter without him, though many will still relive his championship plays, die-hard coaching strategies, disagreements with game officials, and unforgettable game-day stories.

In place of flowers, the family asks that you strike up a conversation with someone in your community, share a classic “Bob” story on your favorite social media strand, volunteer some time with a youth sports organization, or raise a toast at a local pub in Bob’s honor. The community is invited to visit with Bob’s family at the Bloomfield Township Firehall on Friday, December 27, between 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.