Robert Dama

YOUNGSTOWN - Robert Dama, passed away peacefully on January 1, 2025, at the age of 97.

He was born on March 15, 1927, in Youngstown, a son of the late Frank and Mary Subolski Dama.

After serving his country in the United States Navy from March 1945 to July 1946, Robert returned to Youngstown, where he devoted 30 years of his career to Kohns Beverage, ultimately retiring in 1984.. An avid sports fan, Robert cheered passionately for Ohio teams, filling his home with a spirit of camaraderie and joy.

Robert relished in the company of his family and friends. Trips to Las Vegas, exciting nights at Dubic's Palm Cafe, and memorable visits to Down the Hatch were just a few of his cherished pastimes. No celebration was complete without Robert's enthusiastic polka dancing, the aroma of freshly made pitzelles wafting through his home during the Christmas cookie baking with family, or the fish frys and his special lupini beans. Robert also enjoyed golfing, bowling and fishing in his spare time.

As we reflect on Robert's life, we remember a man who appreciated a good scotch, found happiness in the little things, and created a legacy of love that will endure. Family gatherings were his greatest joy, and he will be dearly missed by all his loved ones.

Robert is survived by his wife, Doris Knupp Dama, whom he married June 16, 1979; two daughters, Debbie (Tim) Handwork of Canfield and Linda (Rick) Rogers of Youngstown; three step-daughters, Judith (Robert) Lukach of Hubbard, Cheryl (Bill) Oltmann of Hubbard and Lori Klesch of Lowellville; six grandchildren, Tina (Mike) VanCise, Teddy (Jillian) Smith, Bobby (Joann) Weber, Todd (Emily) Smith, Cathy (Dan) Ronci, and Chrissy Rogers; seven step-grandchildren, Jennifer Lukach, David (Chris) Lukach, Eric (Allison) Oltmann, Dr. Megan (Josh Osterhut) Oltmann, Joshua Oltmann, Atty. Theodore Oltmann, and Heather (Gabe) Rainwater; 14 great grandchildren; three great great grandchildren; numerous step-great grandchildren and step-great great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; and great nieces and nephews.

Robert was preceded in death by his first wife, Betty MacKendrick, whom he married October 29, 1948 and passed away in 1978; three sisters, Margaret Grant, Sally Faloon and Edna Gambone; and three brothers, Frank, Donald, and Carl.

Funeral Services will be held to honor Robert's life on January 4, 2025 at 11 AM at Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Austintown Chapel. Family and friends may pay their respects Saturday from 9 AM to 11 AM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, https://www.stjude.org

Robert's family would like to thank Omni Manor for the great care they gave to him and all the friends he made.