Robert C. Dance 1957-2026

Affectionately known as “Bob,” he was born on March 12, 1957, in Youngstown, a son of the late Charles H. and Anne Gagliardi Dance.

He lived a life marked by intelligence, devotion, hard work and quiet generosity. Bob graduated with honors from Canfield High School, Class of 1975, where he distinguished himself as a member of the National Honor Society, the Varsity Rifle Team, the Symphonic, Jazz and Marching Bands and the Varsity Cross-Country and Track and Field Teams.

He went on to continue his education at the University of Cincinnati, after receiving a co-op scholarship from Electric Furnace Company in Salem to support his schooling. In 1980, he earned his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, and two years later he became a licensed professional engineer in Ohio. He later received his master’s degree in mechanical engineering from Youngstown State University in 1987, reflecting his lifelong commitment to learning and professional excellence.

Bob was a dedicated employee who took great pride in his work. His career as a mechanical engineer began with Electric Furnace Company and continued over the next four decades with Ajax Magnethermic, Hunt Valve Company, Taylor-Winfield and Butech Bliss, where he was employed at the time of his passing. He also shared his knowledge as a mechanical engineering instructor at Youngstown State University, where he helped guide and encourage future engineers.

Outside of his professional life, Bob was active in his community and gave generously of his time. He was a member of the Greenford Ruritan Club and served on its Board of Directors. He was also involved with the Tri-State Antique Auto Club, the American Legion Sons of the Legion Post 177, and the Green Township Zoning Board.

Faith was an important part of Bob’s life from an early age. In his teenage years, he read the Bible cover to cover and carried its teachings with him throughout his life. He was a member of Greenford Lutheran Church, where he served as president of church council and participated in many other capacities.

Bob was a brilliant man who was never hesitant or afraid to tackle a challenge head on. He had a remarkable ability to solve problems and fix almost anything, whether it involved car engines, painting cars, woodworking or plumbing. He was a patient learner who often taught himself by reading books, gathering information, and then carefully making a plan to reach his goal. Bob found great satisfaction in restoring classic cars and taking on home remodeling projects. He was also a true friend who was always ready at a moment’s notice to lend a hand and share his skills with anyone in need.

Above all else, Bob was a devoted husband and father. In 2008, he and his wife, Terri, welcomed their miracle baby, Katie, who instantly became the center of their world. Bob cherished the simple joy of being together as a family, and he treasured the time they spent making memories. Just the week before his passing, the family shared a special vacation in Punta Cana, creating moments they will always hold close. His last day was filled with pride and happiness, as he and Terri were with Katie at Ohio State University for her college orientation.

Bob was the ultimate proud dad, and he found great joy in coaching Katie in her sports career and in sharing the drives to her events, where they talked about everything and anything. Those outings were often made even more special by a stop for ice cream afterward. He was an integral part of Katie’s education and spent many late nights helping her with projects, always taking the time to explain things thoroughly and patiently. Their shared love of math created a special bond, and Bob inspired Katie to pursue math as a career. His guidance, encouragement, and unwavering belief in her will remain a lasting part of her life.

Bob will be remembered as a man of faith, strong character, and remarkable ability. He was a loving husband, a devoted father, a loyal friend, a respected engineer, and a faithful servant to his church and community. His life touched many in meaningful ways, and his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

Bob leaves to carry on his memory, his wife, Terri, whom he married June 29, 1985; daughter, Katie Lynn; mother-in-law, Dorothy Conkle; brother, John (June) Dance; nieces, Brittany (Darren) Drexler and Madison (Jarryd) Pitt; nephew-in-law, Adam Pratt; greatniece, Lyddie Pratt; and greatnephews, Logan and Leo Drexler.

In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by his father-in-law, Richard Conkle; sister-in-law, Nancy Sanders; and niece, Mandy Sanders Pratt.

Family and friends will be received from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, July 30, at Stark Memorial Funeral Home, 1014 E. State St., Salem.

Guests will be received again from 10 to 11 a.m. on Friday, July 31, at Greenford Lutheran Church, 7450 W. South Range Road, Salem, where a funeral service will follow at 11 a.m.

Interment will be in Grandview Cemetery, Salem.

Memorial contributions may be made, in Bob’s name, to the Greenford Lutheran Church.

If unable to attend, you may show your support by joining our complimentary “Hugs from Home” program at www.starkmemorial.com/hugs-from-home.

To view Bob’s obituary, send condolences or order flowers, visit www.starkmemorial.com.

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