Obituary of Robert V. "Bob" Edwards, 85

Robert V. "Bob" Edwards, 85, passed away Tuesday, May 25, at the Mount Nittany Medical Center after a brief illness.

Bob, son of George E and Eva L Edwards, was born on Feb. 14, 1925, and grew up in Philadelphia. He and his two brothers, Donald of Avon, Conn., and George, now deceased, loved to spend time boating on the Delaware River. In 1943, Bob joined the US Army and served in Company B 534 Armored Amphibious Tractor Battalion. He saw significant action in the South Pacific during WWII and was decorated for his service as the company's armorer. He was honorably discharged in 1946. Bob then began a very successful career as a scientific glassblower – beginning as a glassblower apprentice for five years under the GI Bill with the GF Kuenster Co in Cheltenham. In 1949, Bob and Merriam "Mimi" Knisely were married in Mimi's hometown of Reedsville, then moved to a new home in Levittown. Bob and Mimi moved to State College with their two sons, Donald, of State College and Robert, of Wexford, in 1967 when Bob joined HRB-Singer, Inc. Bob subsequently joined the Supelco Company in 1973 where he established and managed a successful scientific glassware business. Bob retired in 1989.

Bob always loved to spend time with his family, loved to tell a good story and always had time for his friends and acquaintances. He also loved to boat and fish. He was a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 5825 and of the American Legion, Post 245. Bob was also a member of the American Scientific Glassblowers Society and a life member of the Penn State Alumni Association.

Along with his wife and sons, he is survived by his daughter in law, Susan Edwards; and his very dear granddaughter, Demi; as well as his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Claire and Warren Mummah, of Mifflintown.

Respecting Bob's wishes, there will be no viewing or memorial service. In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to the charity of your choice in memory of Bob. Arrangements are under the care of Koch Funeral Home, State College.