Robert J. Finch

Robert James Finch, 77, of Franklin passed away on Saturday Oct. 15, 2016, after a brief period of declining health.

He was born on January 22, 1939 in Franklin PA the eldest son of Robert D. and Mildred Jane Finch.

Growing up on Oak Hill in Franklin he attended Franklin High School graduating in 1957, then enlisting in the United States Marine Corp serving active duty as a weapons armorer and marksmanship instructor. Upon his discharge, he returned to Franklin and worked at Chicago Pneumatic, Conair and retiring from Joy as a manufacturing engineer from the Chain Plant.

He married the love of his life, Darlene Lowers on July 13, 1964. They were married for 52 years at the time of his death. He is survived by his wife and their daughter Jina and her husband Kevin Gaddess of Oil City, and their son Robert and his wife Tina Finch of Oil City, as well as, his grandchildren, Sarahbeth Gaddess, Sammiejean Gaddess, Ashley Finch, Alex Finch and Scott Finch. He is survived by his mother, Mildred Finch and siblings: Gary Finch and wife Norma, Dennis Finch and wife Linda, Kristie Strawbridge and husband John and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Mr. Finch was very actively involved in his community. While a member of the Jaycees he designed and help construct the World War II memorial in the Fountain Park in Franklin. In 1972 he was elected to the Franklin Government Study Commission changing the government to a Home Rule Charter. Then he served two, four year terms on the Franklin City Council.

He served on the Franklin General Authority for several years. He was a Paul Harris Fellow of the Franklin Rotary Club serving as president and Assistant District Governor. Leading the Historical Walking Tours of Franklin were a sense of pride for him. He was an active member of the Christ United Methodist Church of Franklin. He also enjoyed traveling, studying history and spending time with family and friends.

There will be no visitation.

A celebration of his life will be held Saturday Oct. 22 at 11:00 A.M. at Christ United Methodist Church, 1135 Buffalo St. Franklin with Rev. Sam Wagner, Associate Church Pastor, officiating.

Interment will follow at Franklin Cemetery.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Huff Funeral Home & Cremation Services Inc., 312 West Park St. Franklin.

Memorial Donations may be sent to the Christ United Methodist Church 1135 Buffalo St. Franklin, PA 16323 or Franklin Rotary Club P.O. Box 589 Franklin, PA 16323 or the Family House, 5001 Baum Blvd. Ste 545, Pittsburgh, PA 15213-1855.

Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.HuffFuneral.com.