Robert J. "Bob" Menefee

Robert J. "Bob" Menefee, a hardworking and beloved family man, passed away unexpectedly on August 3, 2023. Born on November 15, 1980, at St. Mary's Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin, Bob moved to Tuscarawas County with his family at a young age. He left a lasting impact on those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Bob devoted years of his life to his career working for Laborers' Union 134 in Newcomerstown. He specialized in installing pipelines for Miller Pipeline, demonstrating skill and dedication. 

Beyond his professional achievements, Bob found joy with his family and friends, and he treasured time spent with them. Bob married the former Kelly Blankenship, who survives, on August 24, 2013. Together, the couple created a home filled with love, laughter and memories.

Bob embraced being a step-father to Victor (Mary Gomez) Fish of Canton, and River Blankenship of New Philadelphia, with open arms and an open heart, and he took  pride in their accomplishments. Furthermore, Bob is survived by his mother, Mary Crass (Clayton) Rothgeb of Huntington, Indiana, and he shared a special bond with his siblings, Tom (Katrina) Menefee of Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, Lisa France-McElmurry of Baraboo, Wisconsin, Derek, Faye, Kim, Christina and Leah, all of Indiana. Bob's impact extended beyond immediate family. Other surviving relatives include his grandmother, Ruth Cadle of New Philadelphia, as well as numerous nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins who will carry his memory.

Bob had an affection for animals and considered both Duke, his beloved dog, and Buttons, his cat, as members of his family. Additionally, he enjoyed fishing in the lakes of the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District—a pastime that allowed him to connect with nature and find peace amidst tranquil surroundings.

He was preceded in death by his father, Tom Menefee, his paternal grandfather, Gail Menefee; his maternal grandmother, JoEllen Crass; and, in the time since Bob's passing, Duke has also died.

In remembrance of Bob's life, let us celebrate the legacy he leaves behind, particularly his kind spirit and devotion to family and work. 

In keeping with his wishes, Bob has been cremated. A memorial visitation, a time to pay respects and share memories, will be held on Wednesday, September 6, 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Shortly after 1:30, a procession will leave for German Cemetery in Mineral City, where a committal service will be held; Pastor Kevin Anslow will officiate. Following the ceremony, there will be a reception at the home of Bob's aunt, Pam Menefee Beaber, 911 Stonecreek Rd. S.W., New Philadelphia. Those planning to attend are asked to bring a covered dish, their preferred beverages and lawn chairs.

Instead of flowers, donations may be made to a GoFundMe account, which has recently been created to help with Bob's final expenses: https://www.gofundme.com/f/robert-j-menefee-funeral-costs-burial Donations may also be made directly to the family.