Robert Donald Sipes

Robert Donald Sipes, 92, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Tuesday, February 8th.

Robert was born in Altoona, the son of the late Edward H. and Beulah E. (Kuhns) Sipes. Robert was united in marriage to Janet Louise Fiester on October 14, 1950. She preceded him in death on December 26th, 2018.

Surviving are his six children, Robert A. Sipes (Susan) of Altoona, Gary L. Sipes (Patty) of Ormond Beach, FL, Linda L. Kawtoski (Bob) of Altoona, Phyllis A. Sipes of Williamsburg, Phillip D. Sipes of Altoona, and Douglas A. Sipes (Kelly) of Altoona. Also surviving is a brother, Joseph Sipes of Ephrata, PA. Robert had 16 grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by sisters, Helen R. Sipes, Elcie Grace Goldberg, Allena Bell McCarthy, Dorothy Dawson, Lillian Rice, Janet Miller, and by brothers John G. Sipes, Jack Edward Sipes and Edward H. Sipes.

Robert graduated from Altoona High School in 1948. He owned and operated Bob Sipes TV and Appliance, established in the mid 1950’s, in business for over 45 years. He also began a career with the Pennsylvania Railroad, retiring from Conrail after 41 years’ service. Robert was a US Army veteran, having served his country in the Korean Conflict.

Robert was a member of the Fourth Street United Presbyterian and Juniata United Presbyterian Churches, having served in several capacities over the years including as a Sunday School Teacher, Session Member, Elder and Deacon. He dedicated a significant amount of his time ensuring the church in Juniata was maintained throughout the years.

Robert cherished family gatherings and time spent with his grandchildren. He loved spending his free time enjoying Raystown Lake, having bought his first cottage on the old Raystown in 1964. He then built a home in eyesight of the new Raystown in James Creek, in 1972. The home in Raystown was his favorite place to be. There were years of memories made there with wife, Janet, and the family.

Robert, Dad, Pappy, Friend to many…will be sorely missed by his family and friends, but the memories shared will always remain.

Private family services were held.