Robert “Bob” Staul, age 72, of Gloucester, went home to be with God on Nov. 21, 2015 at Riverside Walter Reed Hospital.
He was born on Oct. 3, 1943, in Sharon, Pa., the son of John and Millie Staul. He was married to his high school sweetheart, the Rev. Rita Staul, for 53 years. Bob was a member of Salem/Olive Branch United Methodist Churches. He served 25 years in the United States Air Force and retired out of Langley, Yorktown, Va. He then earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Saint Leo University and went to work for Social Services in the city of Newport News.
Bob was an accomplished athlete. He was an all-star football and baseball player at Farrell High School. He was also the European Doubles Racquetball Champion while serving in the military and stationed in Germany. Bob served in Thailand during the Vietnam War, and was also the ROTC Instructor at Kent State University experiencing the turmoil and tragedy of the anti-war student protest.
He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Bob always saw the best in others and inspired them to reach their highest potential.
He is survived by his wife, the Rev. Rita Staul, pastor of Salem and Olive Branch Methodist Churches in Gloucester, Va. Remaining survivors include his daughter, Wendy Wyatt, her husband Chris; son, the Rev. Brent Staul and his wife Angela, and six grandchildren. He is also survived by John and Nancy Staul of Harrisburg, Pa., and Dennis and Andrea Staul of Hermitage, Pa., and five nieces and nephews.
The family received friends from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 24, 2015, at Hogg Funeral Home, Gloucester Point. A memorial service with military honors was held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2015, at Tabernacle United Methodist Church, Poquoson, Va. The Rev. James Early and the Rev. Rudy Tucker officiated.
In Bob’s memory, the family desires for donations to be given to Invert Ministries, 371 Chatham Drive, Newport News, Va. 23602.
The family would like to thank all of the Walter Reed Hospital staff who went above and beyond to make his final days peaceful and comfortable.
Family and friends may share condolences and memories at www.hoggfh.com.