Robert Elmer Reiner

Robert Elmer Reiner, age 82, passed away at Banner University Medical Center in Tucson, Arizona, on Saturday, June 1, 2024. He was comforted by the presence of his wife of almost 58 years and his immediate family, all of whom were fortunate enough to be at his side during his last week.

     Robert (Bob) was born in Mount Carmel, Pennsylvania, on March 13, 1942, to Elmer and Ruth Reiner. He was the older of two children. He contracted Bulbar Polio at 6 and narrowly escaped being put into an iron lung. The community came together to support his family and pray for him, and Bob made an amazing recovery. He enjoyed a healthy and exceptional life until he experienced challenges due to Post-Polio syndrome later in life.

     Bob graduated from Mount Carmel Area High School and then went on to graduate in Electrical Engineering from Bucknell University in 1964. At the end of his senior year, he met Janet (Jan) Reidenbaugh on a very successful blind date. Bob and Jan were married in 1966 in Lititz, Pennsylvania. They moved to Fort Huachuca, Arizona, to fulfill a college ROTC obligation, fell in love with the beauty of the Southwest, and remained in nearby Sierra Vista for 57 years. They became parents of two sons and a daughter. Bob completed a Master’s degree at The University of Arizona in 1970 and later became Technical Director of The Electronic Proving Ground at Fort Huachuca. He held two U.S. patents and was a member of Tau Beta Pi and The Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers. Bob and Jan were long-time members of Sierra Evangelical Lutheran Church where they enjoyed many years of fellowship, service, and close friendships.

     While growing up in Pennsylvania anthracite coal country, Bob acquired a love of trains and could be found following trains and collecting train schedules throughout his life. He was a wonderful spouse and father and was always ready to tell stories, share interesting facts, and add a touch of humor to any conversation. He also passed on his ability to wiggle his ears to at least four grandchildren.

     Bob leaves behind his spouse and best friend, Janet, and their three children:  James Christian Reiner (Kathie), Highlands Ranch, CO; Jennifer Reiner Miller (Mike), Meridian, Idaho; Thomas Robert Reiner (Carrie), Lancaster, PA; and nine grandchildren. A great-grandchild is expected in November. He was predeceased by his parents and his sister, Deborah.

     The family would like to sincerely thank the ICU team at Banner for providing such exceptional care and support at the end of Bob’s life.

     A memorial service will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, June 22, 2024, at Sierra Evangelical Lutheran Church, 101 N. Lenzner Avenue, Sierra Vista. Please know that Bob’s family appreciates your love and prayers. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Sierra Evangelical Lutheran Church or to Lutheran World Relief.