Robert S. LaCivita 1944-2025

Robert “Bob” was born Sept. 13, 1944, to Ralph and Carmel Guerriero LaCivita in Youngstown, where he spent his youth, graduating from Cardinal Mooney High School in 1962.

He earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Youngstown State University and a master’s degree from Kent State University.

He was drafted and served in Vietnam for several years before returning home, whereupon he joined the Youngstown Fire Department. He was a firefighter for over a decade until a serious injury took him off the force. He would credit his time there with giving him a love of cooking, which lasted through his lifetime. Bob also worked as an adjunct professor of fine arts at Youngstown State University as well as Ursuline College.

While he was a prolific artist, he was equally comfortable tackling carpentry, plumbing or electrical projects. He helped many family and friends with remodeling projects, both big and small, in addition to doing significant work on his own homes. In every case, he brought his limitless vision and creativity to the work.

He was happiest when working on a project, whether it was artwork, a piece of furniture or a multi-course meal for a crowd. He was a natural storyteller and loved to make people laugh. If a ruckus was happening, Bob was more than likely its source.

Bob is survived by his wife of 58 years, Sandy; his children, Bobby and Leah; his grandchild, Eva; brothers, Ralph and Steve; and sisters, Marietta and Carol.

There will be no funeral services or calling hours.

A time of gathering for friends and family will be 3 to 5 p.m. Monday, Nov. 10, 2025, at the Lane Funeral Home Family Center, 45 N. Broad St., Canfield.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations in Bob’s memory to the American Cancer Society at donate.cancer.org.

This obituary may be viewed and condolences can be sent by visiting www.lanefuneralhomes.com.

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