Robert R. Sopher, 79, died Sunday, Nov. 15, 2015 at 7:18 a.m. at St. Rita’s Medical Center. Robert was born to Rev. Joseph F. Sopher and EmmaBelle (Forrest) Sopher on Feb. 25, 1936 in Rushsylvania, Ohio.

Robert graduated from LaFayette-Jackson High School in 1954, where he participated in high school choruses, high school band and class plays. He was also active in sports, where his favorite was playing football. He was on the starting lineup and earned his Varsity “L” letters.

Robert attended college in Ft. Wayne, Ind., and Ohio University. He was a Navy veteran serving in the U.S. Navy from 1958 to 1962, specializing in Aviation Electronics. He retired from Ford Motor Company, working in quality control after several years of employment.

Bob was in The Lima Beane Barbershop Chorus and also sang with the LaFayette Community Chorus for many years.

Bob was a member of the First United Methodist Church, LaFayette. He also belonged to military veterans organizations. 

Bob is survived by his brother, Rev. Joe Sopher and Joe’s wife, Laura, of Marion; two nieces: Brenda (Brian) Treisch of Galion and Michelle (Tim) Sweeney of Delaware; a great niece, Taryn Sweeney; three great nephews: Colin Sweeney, Quinn Sweeney and Luke Eisnaugle; and also his good friends: Dean and Freda Plaugher.

Funeral services will begin at 1 pm. on Thursday, Nov. 19, at Hanson-Neely Funeral Home, Ada with Rev. Glory Geib, Chaplain at St. Rita’s Medical Center, officiating. Burial will be in Grove Cemetery, Kenton, with graveside military honors conducted by the Ada VFW Post #9381 Honor Guard.

Memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church of LaFayette and/or the Lima Beane Barbershop Chorus and/or the LaFayette Community Chorus and/or the charity of the donor’s choice.