Robert (Rob) Samuel Hart, 78, peacefully passed away in his sleep surrounded by the thoughts and prayers of family and friends on January 24, 2021.

Rob was born on May 20, 1942 at Jameson Memorial Hospital in New Castle, Pennsylvania. He was the only child of Wayne Alvin Hart and Esther Helen Hart. Sadly, Wayne passed away in 1949. In 1963 Esther married Harry O. Carlson who was an instrumental part of Rob’s life and the lives of Rob’s children.

In 1964 Rob graduated from Geneva College and enlisted in the Army National Guard where he was honorably discharged with the rank of Corporal E-4 in the 1st Battalion 229th Artillery.

As he began to establish a career in finance, Rob and his family lived in several states before settling down in Hackettstown, New Jersey in 1978 where he would raise two children, establish many friendships, and live out the remainder of his life.

Rob was a loving and compassionate father who epitomized the saying, “actions speak louder than words.”  Whether sitting on the sidelines watching Kelly cheerlead at a game or Scott field a ground ball in the infield, his presence was unmistakable and his support unwavering—we knew he was proud.

Rob was never one to remain idle. He had a passion for street rods where he was an active member of the New Jersey Street Rod Association—rides in the rumble seat will never be forgotten. He also forged many friendships on the racquetball court where he perfected his unreturnable serve. Rob continued to give to others as a mentor in Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. An avid cat-lover, Rob generously gave to the ASPCA and was never one to turn away a stray cat… or three.

After retirement, Rob enjoyed cheering on the Yankees, spending time at Lake Naomi on the beach and skipping stones with his grandchildren.

Rob is survived by his former wife Nancy Monaghan and their two children — Scott Hart, Kelly Odonnell (Wasdyke) and six grandchildren—Kayle Wasdyke, Megan Wasdyke, Riley Wasdyke, Logan Wasdyke, Sarah Hart and Jonathan Hart. Rob was preceded in death by his stepsister, Betty Lou Gee of Zelienople, PA.

Services will be held on Thursday, February 4th, 2021at Cochran Funeral Home in Hackettstown from 4-7 p.m..

Donations in Rob’s name can be made to the ASPCA (aspca.org) or Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (bbbs.org).