Dr. Robert James Foldvary 1945-2026

He was born Nov. 8, 1945, in Youngstown, to the late Alexander Sr. and Elizabeth Foldvary. On Nov. 25, 1983, he married the love of his life, Marilyn Justinger, who survives.

Bob was a faithful member of St. John Catholic Church in Defiance, and volunteered with the St. Vincent de Paul Society. His Catholic faith was the cornerstone of his life. He attended John Carroll University and graduated from Youngstown State University. Bob received his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati in 1972 and completed his residency in pediatrics at the Children’s Hospital of Akron in 1975, where he was chief pediatric resident. He was certified as a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics in 1979. Bob loved children and was a dedicated pediatrician at The Defiance Clinic for over 47 years. He continued his lifelong commitment to helping children and generations of families until his retirement.

Bob was a proud member of the American Medical Association, and he worked at The Filling Home of Mercy, assisting residents. He enjoyed reading, fishing, traveling and boating on Lake Erie. Bob loved spending time with his family and spoiling his grandchildren. Bob will be deeply missed by his family, and his legacy of service and kindness will be cherished by all who knew him.

He is lovingly survived by his wife, Marilyn Foldvary of Defiance; his son, Matthew Foldvary; and his grandchildren, Kaylee Foldvary, Ace Foldvary and Blake Joost; and in-laws, Mary (Talian) Foldvary, Janet (Bob) Wood, Judy (Sam) Sauer, Sr. Monica Justinger, C.SA. and John (Mary) Justinger.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sons, Alex and Mark Foldvary; his sisters, Helen, Goldie, Ethel and Olga; and his brothers, Alex Jr., Elmer and Bill.

Visitation will take place from 2 to 8 p.m. Sunday, July 12, 2026, at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance, with a vigil service at 2 p.m.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. Monday, July 13, 2026, at St. John Catholic Church, with the Rev. Fr. David Cirata officiating.

Bob will be laid to rest in Riverside Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to Filling Home of Mercy, Fort Defiance Humane Society, St. John Catholic Church, or Holy Cross Catholic School.

Online condolences can be given at www.schafferfh.com.

(special notice)