July 13, 1936 – July 18, 2013

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, father-in-law, brother-in law, uncle, friend and well-known local business owner entered into eternal life on July 18 at 9:48 p.m.

Robert is survived by his wife of 55 years Maria; son and daughter-in-law Robert and Helga Berger; daughter and son-in-law Brigitte and Joe Hart; and four grandchildren: Brittany, 22, and Alex Berger, 20, and Thomas, 14, and Jonathan Hart 12.

Robert was born in Buffalo, NY. He and his wife Maria lived in La Crescenta for 50 years and spent the last 30 years as popular owners of the Montrose Bowl on Honolulu Avenue in Montrose.

He spent his youth growing up in the Black Forest in Southern Germany with his parents and two siblings. At age 15, he returned to New York and became a professional soccer player which brought him to Southern California where he played for the Los Angeles Kickers Soccer Club. Robert and Maria were married in Los Angeles in 1958.

Robert was a devoted husband and father and friend whose kindness and generosity are unmatched. Robert enjoyed life to its fullest and throughout his life enjoyed traveling, boating, skiing, golfing, coaching soccer and spending time with his family and many friends. Many also know him because he gave so much time getting to know his customers at the Montrose Bowl. Even though he spent the last years in retirement, many still come to the bowling alley asking about him and always wishing him well.

Robert always had a smile for everyone and made friends easily. He spent over 20 years volunteering as a youth soccer coach for several club teams around Southern California and spent four years as soccer coach at Crescenta Valley High School.

Although Robert had graciously suffered from heart disease and vascular disease for over 13 years, he continued to be an avid traveler and soccer fan, and spent many happy hours among his friends and family. The last year he endured so much pain and suffering but rarely did he complain. He spent his last five weeks in the hospital when, after complications, Robert was called home where he will rest in God’s loving peace.

Services will be held at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, 2411 Montrose Ave. in Montrose on Monday, July 29 at noon.

Please visit CrippenMortuary.com to view a Memorial Tribute and light a candle for Robert.