Robert OLeary

Robert E. O’Leary Age 88, of Monroeville, on Monday, December 31, 2012. He was born April 1, 1924 in Pittsburgh, PA. During his high school years, he was active in sports, earning a letter in swimming from South Hills High School. After training as a combat engineer, he served as a First Lieutenant in the Quartermaster Corps in the Philippines during World War II. Upon his return home, he attended the University of Pittsburgh, becoming the first member of his family to receive a college degree earning both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Education. He began his career as a social studies teacher in 1949 in Patton Heights, later moving to Monroeville Junior High School when it opened. He was affectionately referred to as “Mr. O.” by his students in acknowledgement of his genuine regard for them. In addition to teaching, he also had a life-long love of sports and coached the 8th grade Basketball Team for many years. He was an active member of the Bethel United Presbyterian Church in Monroeville, where he had served as Treasurer of the Sunday School and a Deacon. After his retirement from teaching in 1989, he and his wife June, became active in local ballroom dancing clubs, starting a DJ business, Melodees, and playing at club dances and other local affairs for 20 years. Their choice of music and his humorous style of announcing made them favorites of the local groups, including the Tiffany Dance Club and the Pittsburgh Chapter of USABDA. He is survived by his beloved wife of 64years, June (Lockhart) O’Leary; his children, Janet (Barry) Balas, Robert (Patricia) and Kevin O’Leary; grandfather of Christopher (Kim), and Benjamin (Erin) Balas, Kristin and Jaclyn O’Leary, and great-grandfather of Blaise Balas; uncle of Kenneth (Jan) O’Leary and Karen (Rick) Stiteler; and was the brother of the late Frank O’Leary. Friends received at the GENE H. CORL INC. FUNERAL CHAPEL & CREMATION CENTER OF MONROEVILLE, 4335 Northern Pike (1 block East of Mosside Blvd.-Rte. 48). Visitation Wednesday 7-9 p.m. and Thursday 2-4 & 7-9 p.m., and where services will be held on Friday January 4, 2013 at 11 a.m. with Pastor Nancy Titus, officiating. Interment following at Cross Roads Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests donations to Bethel United Presbyterian Church, 418 Beatty Road, Monroeville, PA. 15146.