Robert J. Schmitt

We are sad to announce that on October 6, 2022, Robert J. Schmitt, loving husband and father, passed away shortly before his birthday.  

Robert (Bob, “Duke”) was born on October 15, 1933, to Richard and Sophie E. Schmitt of Wilkinsburg, PA. He received a degree in Chemical Engineering from University of Pittsburgh.  He put himself through college by working at US Steel Clairton works and was badly burned at the mill but recovered and began working at the US Steel Research Center in Monroeville, PA.   There, he was blessed to meet his lifelong sweetheart, Doris (“DD”).  They raised two daughters, Diane and Lori, while living in Murrysville, PA for over 60 years.  He had a long career at US Steel (USX) in many positions mostly related to research and management.   He retired from US Steel as General Manager of Technical Services in 1990, and later took a position with Carnegie Mellon University, Center for Metals Production (EPRI) as Associate Director.  He retired in 1998. 

 “Duke” and “DD” enjoyed building and maintaining their beautiful home in the woods of Murrysville. They enjoyed traveling and spending time with friends and family.  Mostly they enjoyed each other’s company and had a long and devoted marriage.  Bob cared for Doris during her struggles with Parkinson’s Disease.    They moved to Cranberry Township in 2017 to be closer to their daughters and “DD” died suddenly afterwards.  He was a caring, funny, hardworking and generous person.  Even in his final weeks, his thoughts were of his family and protecting and caring for his daughters.   

Robert is survived by two daughters, Diane (Bruce) Becherer of Poland, Ohio and Lori Schmitt of Mars, PA; two grandchildren, Elizabeth Becherer and Will Allison and two sisters Carol Natale and Clare Siebert. 

A private funeral service was held on October 12, 2022. 

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