Robert E. Dennison 1950-2026

Robert was born March 22, 1950, in Warren and grew up in North Jackson, the son of Donald and Lorain Campbell Dennison.

Robert was a 1968 graduate of Jackson-Milton High School and continued his education at Youngstown State University, where he earned a degree in marketing in 1973.

While attending YSU, Robert met his future wife, Celesta Simcox, who worked as a secretary in the department where he was employed as a student helper. Their meeting sparked a lifelong relationship, and shortly after Robert graduated, the two were married on Oct. 6, 1973. Robert and Celesta shared 56 wonderful years together and 52 years of marriage.

Robert worked for many years as a salesman in the fire protection industry, first with Automatic Sprinkler Corporation and later with Aven Fire Systems. Throughout his career he was known for his strong work ethic and the many relationships he built with colleagues and customers.

A man of deep faith, Robert was a longtime and faithful member of Zion Lutheran Church in Cornersburg. There, he served his church family for many years as both a greeter and an usher, warmly welcoming others each week.

Robert enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. He loved fishing, golfing, bowling and watching classic Westerns. He enjoyed listening to bluegrass and Irish music. Spending time with his family brought him his greatest joy.

He was an enthusiastic sports fan who proudly supported The Ohio State University and Youngstown State University. Robert was also a devoted Dallas Cowboys fan and often joked that he was the first Dallas Cowboys fan in Youngstown. Among his favorite places to visit were Angliers; Quebec, Canada; the beautiful state of Virginia; and his cherished church community.

Robert leaves behind his loving wife, Celesta Dennison; his son, Matthew (Colette) Dennison; and his cherished grandchildren, Mackenzie Dennison and Benjamin Dennison. He is also survived by his siblings, Phillip (Christine) Dennison, Deborah (Dave) Dennison and Mary Lou (Dave) Byrdy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Lorain Dennison, as well as his grandparents and many beloved aunts and uncles.

Robert will be remembered for his faith, his devotion to his family, his sense of humor and the many friendships he formed throughout his life.

To honor Robert’s legacy, the family encourages those attending services to wear apparel representing The Ohio State University, Youngstown State University or the Dallas Cowboys — teams he loved to cheer for.

The family will receive relatives and friends 4 to 8 p.m. Friday, March 20, at Lane Funeral Home, Austintown Chapel, 5797 Mahoning Ave.

A funeral service will be 1 p.m. Saturday, March 21, at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the memorial fund at Zion Lutheran Church or to Hospice House, 9803 Sharrott Road, Boardman.

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