Born Nov. 17, 1954 in Lewistown to the late Robert Earl and Betty May (Gutshall) Lepley.

He is survived by his loving wife, Rosemary E. (DuMond) Lepley, who he married Sept. 29, 2012; children, Robert S. Lepley and wife, Katie, Emily A. Shank and husband, Matt, and Samuel H. Lepley; and five grandchildren.

Robert was a graduate of Penn State Altoona with an Associate Degree in Electrical Engineering. He was the owner of Robert P. Lepley Electrical Contractor Inc. since 1975.

He was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church, member and president of Fame EMS, Burnham Lions Club, Lewistown Moose Lodge 143, Lewistown Elks Lodge 663, Masonic Lodges, Lewistown Chapter No. 186, Scottish Rite, Lewistown Lodge No. 203, Juniata Valley Forest No. 88, and local fire stations.

Larger than life, he had a way about him to make people laugh. He loved to sit with friends, exchanging great stories. There were times he would share an entire story, only to find at the end that the story was made up and everyone would laugh over his keen sense of humor.

He was known to be a prankster. The emergency vehicle siren sounds he would create with his mouth were the most memorable. He did not hesitate and with a grin on his face, would start quietly and then as loud as he could, blast the sound until he turned heads. In his high school days, restaurants, stores, clubs, from a vehicle, wherever and whenever he felt the desire, or when someone would ask him to “do the siren.” There is no doubt that every time a siren sounds, he will come to mind.

Robert was a kind-hearted man and had a deep compassion to help people in times of need. Throughout the years, he would be called by someone who had no electricity and/or heat. When realizing it was a hardship for them to pay, he would tell them not to worry, no charge. He had an enormous heart, so generous no matter who.

From an early age, Robert was destined to be an electrician. For Christmas, most children ask for toys or maybe clothes, but he asked for an extension cord. Years later, in 1975, he proudly started his own business. Starting off in the attic of his parent’s home, he set up an office. He loved his work and did it with passion. Robert mentored many of his young electricians throughout the years. Some became teachers, others moved onto new opportunities, and some to own their own business. Nearly 50 years later, because of his hard work and good business sense, Robert P. Lepley Electrical Contractor, Inc. still thrives.

A kid at heart, he was a kid magnet. He would show children simple magic tricks that would mesmerize them. Eventually teaching the trick to them, but only after they were filled with curiosity. The famous hug machine with sound effects that always brought the biggest smiles and bursts of laughter from the kids and Bob too.

Robert had a passion for cooking, saying it relaxed him. He enjoyed planning the evening meals. He gave credit to the Burnham Lions Club for instilling in him the love of cooking and grilling. He enjoyed tinkering in his garage with new tools, wiring projects, and cutting wood. All while listening to Sirius Radio.

He had a special bond with his son, Sam. They enjoyed train watching. After gathering snacks and drinks, they would make their rounds to several favorite train watching spots. He liked to join his son at his house to watch racing, college football, and pro wrestling. He loved to sit by a fire with Sam, relaxing and talking while taking turns managing the fire. It was easy for them to sit there for hours at a time, one on one, dad and son.

Robert enjoyed the simple pleasures in life. His favorite time of the day was evening and driving around with no destination in mind. He liked taking short road trips, stopping by small country stores, flea markets, and lakes. Any place along the way that he desired. Most weekends were spent at his cabin with his wife and beloved dog, Abby.

To his wife, he had the sweetest heart. He was very talented in writing her touching and meaningful poems. His spontaneous personality led him one evening to a sweet gesture when he called her to the living room and danced with her to the song, Always and Forever, playing on the radio. From that special moment, Always and Forever became “their song.”

As per Robert’s wishes, no services will be held. King-Barr Funeral Home, LLC is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions to be sent to Fame EMS, 701 Valley St., Lewistown, PA 17044. Condolences can be sent to kingbarrfuneralhome.com.

To honor Robert’s memory, a celebration of his life will be planned.

“Those who touch our lives, stay in our hearts forever.”