Robert Dama 1927-2025

He was born March 15, 1927, in Youngstown, a son of the late Frank and Mary Subolski Dama.

After serving his country in the United States Navy from March 1945 to July 1946, Robert returned to Youngstown, where he devoted 30 years of his career to Kohn Beverage Company, ultimately retiring in 1984.

An avid sports fan, Robert cheered passionately for Ohio teams, filling his home with a spirit of camaraderie and joy.

Robert relished in the company of his family and friends. Trips to Las Vegas, exciting nights at Dubic’s Palm Cafe and memorable visits to Down the Hatch were just a few of his cherished pastimes. No celebration was complete without Robert’s enthusiastic polka dancing, the aroma of freshly made pizzelles wafting through his home during the Christmas cookie baking with family, or the fish frys and his special lupini beans. Robert also enjoyed golfing, bowling and fishing in his spare time.

As we reflect on Robert’s life, we remember a man who appreciated a good scotch, found happiness in the little things and created a legacy of love that will endure. Family gatherings were his greatest joy and he will be dearly missed by all his loved ones.

Robert is survived by his wife, Doris Knupp Dama, whom he married June 16, 1979; two daughters, Debbie (Tim) Handwork of Canfield and Linda (Rick) Rogers of Youngstown; three stepdaughters, Judith (Robert) Lukach of Hubbard, Cheryl (Bill) Oltmann of Hubbard and Lori Klesch of Lowellville; six grandchildren, Tina (Mike) VanCise, Teddy (Jillian) Smith, Bobby (Joann) Weber, Todd (Emily) Smith, Cathy (Dan) Ronci and Chrissy Rogers; seven step-grandchildren, Jennifer Lukach, David (Chris) Lukach, Eric (Allison) Oltmann, Dr. Megan (Josh Osterhut) Oltmann, Joshua Oltmann, Atty. Theodore Oltmann and Heather (Gabe) Rainwater; 14 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren; numerous step-great-grandchildren and step-great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

Robert was preceded in death by his first wife, Betty MacKendrick, whom he married Oct. 29, 1948, and who passed away in 1978; three sisters, Margaret Grant, Sally Faloon and Edna Gambone; and three brothers, Frank, Donald and Carl.

Funeral services will be held to honor Robert’s life, 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025, at Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Austintown Chapel.

Family and friends may pay their respects 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, www.stjude.org.

Robert’s family would like to thank Omni Manor for the great care they gave to him and all the friends he made.

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