Robert A. “Bob” McKinley, Sr., 65, of Julian, passed away peacefully in his sleep at home on Sunday, April 20, 2025. Born on September 3, 1959, in Bellefonte, he was the beloved son of the late Raymond and Katherine L. (Baney) McKinley.
On April 5, 1980, Bob married the love of his life, Beth A. Emigh, in a quiet ceremony in Unionville. They shared 45 years of marriage filled with devotion, laughter, and deep love. Beth remains in their home, surrounded by the memories they created together.
Bob attended Bald Eagle Area High School and worked many jobs over the years—at Howard Nursery, Black Moshannon State Park, and others. He was a hard worker who gave his all until health challenges made it impossible to continue. Bob was also in the National Guard.
Bob was a man of many talents and passions. He loved the outdoors—fishing, hunting, camping and woodworking were some of his favorite ways to spend his time. He had a gift for fixing anything with a motor and lived by the motto, “If it ran once, it’ll run again.” He also had a knack for computers and technology, often surprising others with how much he knew.
More than anything, Bob was a family man. He is survived by his wife Beth, and three children who meant the world to him: Robert A. McKinley, Jr and his wife, Tabitha, of Tyrone, Larry W. McKinley and his fiancé, Patricia Crust, of Julian, and Brandon L. McKinley and his wife, Stephanie, of Tyrone. He is also survived by two brothers: Ricky R. McKinley and his wife, Jeanne, of Bush Hollow and Ray G. McKinley and his wife, Leisa, of Bellefonte; three sisters: Kathy A. Hoover and her husband, Lane, of Hamstead, NC, Carol J. Ghaner and her husband, Lynn, of Milesburg, and Rosa A. Tressler and her husband, Melvin, of Bush Hollow. But Bob’s pride and joy were his grandchildren. He was “Pap” to 10 grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and another great-grandchild on the way. He cherished every moment spent with them and loved them beyond words.
There will be a public visitation on Monday, April 28, 2025, from 10-11am at the Daughenbaugh Funeral Home in Milesburg. Bob will be laid to rest privately next to his parents at Union Cemetery in Bellefonte.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to help the family with funeral expenses to the Daughenbaugh Funeral Home, Inc, PO Box 288, Milesburg, PA 16853.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Daughenbaugh Funeral Home, Inc in Milesburg, PA. An online guest book can be signed, or you may post your condolences to the family at www.daughenbaughfuneralhome.com.