Robert Mansfield 1946-2025

Bob’s loyalty and energy made him a favorite to many people from all walks of life. He mentored so many and never failed to reach out and follow up. He also was identified as a Great Comedy! What will The Lake Club do now without Bob holding court while watching games? Bob never failed to make you laugh.

Bob was born Oct. 15, 1946, in Youngstown. He was the son of Elmer and Marie Hulme Mansfield. He grew up on the West Side and attended St. Brendan’s school and church. He graduated from Ursuline High School in 1964. Bob went on to Youngstown State University, where he earned a degree in education, and continued his studies, earning master’s degrees in English, school administration and counseling.

Bob started his career as a teacher in the Youngstown City School District at Covington School. He quickly moved on to Princeton Junior and South High Schools as a home-school visitor and football coach. He also was principal of Harrison and Taft elementary schools.

It was football coaching that gave Bob an opportunity to develop relationships with countless players. Bob’s bonds with these players lasted a lifetime. He later went on to be an assistant in the football programs at Youngstown State University and at The Ohio State University.

In addition to coaching, Bob was a well-known basketball referee. Starting with junior high games, he quickly learned the craft and it became a passion for him. After years of refereeing at the high school, college and pro levels, including state and conference championships, Bob was awarded the distinction of being inducted into the Basketball Referees’ Hall of Fame.

He also was a well-known racquetball champion. If only the courts at the downtown YMCA could talk!

Bob’s greatest strength and why he will be missed so much was his ability to build strong relationships with everyone fortunate enough to call him “friend.” He had the talent to connect with people at their level, whether it be a friend or family member, an athlete in search of advice or a buddy just looking for fun. Bob nurtured his friendships. These friendships were built on loyalty, caring and shared interests. People were drawn to him because he was sincerely interested in what they had to say.

Bob’s life took a turn in 1995 when he underwent a kidney transplant. This journey would take him to the halls of medicine for the next 30 years. His strength and his resolve made the years challenging, but gratifying because he would never give up. He would never quit. He defied all odds.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents and by his uncle, Edward J. Hulme, who was like a father to him.

Bob is survived by his wife of 37 years, Linda (Gemma). He leaves behind his brother, Richard, and wife, Beverly. He also has numerous Hulme cousins and their families in Youngstown and across the country.

Calling hours will be 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025, and 9 to 10 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025, at Rossi Brothers and Lellio Funeral Home, 4442 South Ave., Boardman.

An 11 a.m. funeral service will be held Wednesday at Rising Star Baptist Church, 2943 Wardle St., Youngstown. Bob’s close friend, Pastor Kenneth Donaldson, will officiate.

A heartfelt thank you to Bob’s amazing medical care team, Dr. Leonidas Vassilaros, Dr. Gus Biscardi, Dr. Pratheek Kakkasseril, Dr. Dan Ricchiuti, Dr. Brock Generalovich and Dr. Art Duran, whose constant care, concern and friendship helped Bob to reach the milestone of 30 years with a kidney transplant. A special thanks, also, to the Southwoods Home Health Care team Cindy, Rick, Holly, Marissa, Tracie and Brooke, and the wonderful staff at St. Elizabeth’s Wound Care Center. There is nothing on this earth more to be prized than true friendship. Thank you to our faithful friend, Mike Tomczak.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Rising Star Baptist Church, 2943 Wardle St., Youngstown, OH 44505.

Family and friends are encouraged to offer prayers for the family by visiting the Book of Memories at www.rossifunerals.com.

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