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BOARDMAN – Robert J. Duda Sr., 81, passed away Monday, Nov. 9, 2026, at Greenbriar Healthcare Center.
Robert was born Oct. 8, 1945, in Youngstown, a son of Joe and Helen Lonczkowski Duda.
A 1964 graduate of Chaney High School, he began his college education at the University of Dayton before earning his bachelor’s degree from Youngstown State University, where he was a member of the Theta Xi fraternity. He later earned a master’s degree in educational administration from Westminster College. He dedicated his career to education, serving as a teacher and occupational work adjustment coordinator in the Youngstown school system.
Football and basketball were meaningful parts of Robert’s life. He earned All-City honors as a tight end in 1963 and was later inducted into the Chaney Hall of Fame for his accomplishments in football.
Outside of his career, Robert enjoyed a life filled with family, hobbies and time outdoors. He loved sports cars and riding his Harley-Davidson and enjoyed golfing, fishing, hunting and working out. His home was on the golf course, where he enjoyed taking walks and collecting stray golf balls along the way.
Above all, Robert treasured spending time with his family. He leaves his wife, the former Carol A. Urban Duda, whom he married Aug. 29, 1968; his son, Robert J. Duda Jr. of Boardman; and his two grandchildren, Jacob and Mary Duda.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Private family services have taken place at Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Boardman-Canfield Chapel.
Memorial contributions may be made to Mill Creek Golf Course, 1 W. Golf Drive, Boardman, OH 44512, in recognition of Robert’s enjoyment of its golf course and the time he spent there.
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