Thomas Hunter Robb, Jr.

Thomas Hunter Robb Jr. , age 83, passed away on Saturday, October 5th, surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with advanced dementia. He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Sr. and Florence, and his beloved daughter, Lori Frey-Robb.

Born in Akron, Ohio, Thomas grew up in Cuyahoga Falls, graduating from Cuyahoga Falls High School in 1958, where he was a member of the State Champion swim team. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Kent State University in 1998. Thomas proudly served four years in the U.S. Air Force and dedicated 40 years to Ohio Bell/AT&T, retiring in 2003.

During his younger years, Thomas raced motorcycles semi-professionally, including at Daytona Speedway. He was an avid backpacker, once summiting Mt. Whitney, the highest peak in the lower 48 states.

Thomas was also a passionate carpenter who could design, build, or fix just about anything. He designed and built a three-story treehouse for his children, which was the envy of the neighborhood and the site of many joyful sleepovers. He also volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, rehabilitating and building many homes for the community.

Thomas was an active member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church of Akron since 1982, deeply involved in church services and activities. He twice served on the Vestry, as well as the Property Committee, as a Chalice Bearer, Bible study teacher, and builder for the Flower Guild. In 2023, he was honored with the Spirit of St. Paul’s Award for his many contributions to the church.

In retirement, Thomas pursued his passion for wooden boat building, studying at the Wooden Boat School in the Pacific Northwest. While visiting his adult children in Seattle, he spent countless hours at the Center for Wooden Boats, repairing sailboats and building toys for children.

For fifteen summers, he and his wife Anita housesat for a friend in Port Townsend, WA, which served as their happy place away from home. There, they were active members of the community, church, and the Northwest Maritime Center, where Thomas worked as a carpenter and docent, leading tours of the facility.

He is survived by Anita, his devoted wife of 49 years; his sons, Eric (Heather) and Michael (Alancia); his granddaughters, Morgan and Erin; his sister, Margaret (Gary); and his brothers, Steve (Jane) and Bill (Winifred).

Thomas was a humble man of great integrity, kindness, and deep love for his family and friends. His dry sense of humor and keen intellect brought joy and wisdom to those around him. He cherished classical music, films, writing, and reading, passions that enriched his life and inspired others.

Thomas will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Memorial Service 1 P.M. SATURDAY October 12th at St Paul’s Episcopal Church, 1361 W. Market St. Akron, OH 44313.

Services in care of The Billow Funeral Homes & Crematory, Falls Chapel, 1907 23rd Street, Cuyahoga Falls, OH  44223.