It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the peaceful passing of Robert (Bob) Sforza, cherished father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, on May 3, 2026, at the age of 85. Robert departed this world at the OSU Ross Heart Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, where he received dedicated care for 22 years following a heart transplant. His indomitable spirit, strength, and gratitude for each extra day gifted by a donor heart were hallmarks of his enduring legacy. Robert was born in Newark, Ohio, on January 28, 1941, to the late Alfred and Johanna (Rey) Sforza.

Robert’s legacy is lovingly carried on by his devoted children, Dawnell (Rick) Reece, Sandy Sforza (Dennis Bennett), and Bobbi (Chris) Sorrell. He was a proud grandfather to five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, Larry Sforza, Melanie Sforza, Tony (Melissa) Sforza, Becky Sforza, Betty Jo Schrider, and Brenda (Mark) Hite, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, his sisters Barbara Kidner, Diana Bruckelmyer and Veronica Sforza (Sister-in-Law), and his brothers Neal Wood, Rick Sforza, and Frank Bruckelmyer (Brother-in-Law).

A proud 1958 graduate of Hanover High School, Robert carried forward the values of hard work and perseverance into his career with Roper; and then with Owens Corning as a machinist in the maintenance department, Local 1280. His passion for collecting treasures and his knack for finding a good deal were legendary among friends and family. Robert also possessed an enduring love for cars, spending countless hours buying, tinkering, and bringing new life to them. He was proud of his Italian heritage and was a long-time member of the Sons of Italy.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at the OSU Ross Heart Hospital and the Transplant Team for their compassionate care and dedication over the years. Their kindness and expertise provided Robert with a second chance in life, a gift for which his family will be eternally thankful.

The family will receive friends from 5-7pm on Monday, May 11, 2026 at Brucker-Kishler Funeral Home, 985 N. 21st St., Newark. Funeral service will begin at 7pm with the Sons of Italy followed by Deacon Patrick Wilson as officiant.

To sign an online guestbook, please visit www.brucker-kishlerfuneralhome.com.

To order flowers locally, please visit www.johnedwardpriceflowers.com/

To order memorial gifts please visit memorial-gifts-at-brucker-kishler.myshopify.com/