Robi H. Bendorf

BENDORF: Robi H. Bendorf, Dec. 26, 1944 – Feb. 8, 2026, 81 years well lived: Robi H. Bendorf was born on Dec. 26, 1944, in an attic in Holland while his family was in hiding. A Holocaust survivor, he immigrated to the United States at 2 ½ years old, first settling in Crandall, Texas, and later moving to Breckenridge, Texas, at age 11. Robi lived a life defined by curiosity, generosity, resilience and an enduring belief that life itself is the greatest classroom. Though never a teacher by trade, he was always teaching — through his work, service, creativity, humor and unwavering encouragement of others.
Never Stop Learning-or Teaching Others: An Eagle Scout, Order of the Arrow, with two palms, Robi learned early the value of service and leadership. He graduated from Breckenridge High School and earned degrees in physics and mathematics from the University of Texas at Austin, where he met the love of his life, Mary. Married for 59 years and friends for 61, their partnership was one of his greatest lessons. Robi spent 27 years with Westinghouse, living in many states and embracing new challenges. He later earned a master’s degree in counseling from Penn State University and volunteered at Contact Pittsburgh’s suicide crisis hotline. After retiring, he became an independent consultant in purchasing and supply chain management, traveling globally and developing training programs. His teaching continued through tutoring at Peabody High School, teaching CPR, helping establish the Tri-County South EMS Department, volunteering as an EMT, and training nurses at Shadyside Hospital in therapeutic touch. His curiosity led him to metaphysical sciences, where he became a Reiki healer and was certified in therapeutic touch.
Creativity Heals the Soul: An artist at heart, Robi loved painting. His artwork lives on in the homes of family and friends, lasting reminders of his creativity and thoughtfulness.
Family Is the Greatest Classroom: Above all, Robi was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was endlessly proud of his children and four granddaughters, encouraging them to think critically, solve problems and believe in themselves. His favorite advice — “If you don’t like it, fix it!” — was his loving lesson in confidence and independence. He was also a Scout leader, Indian Princess song leader and a steady source of humor and wisdom.
Attitude Matters — Choose “Fantastic”: Robi battled cancer for five years with remarkable positivity, supported by the extraordinary team at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center and Shadyside Hospital, who will always hold a special place in his family’s hearts. Known for his “creative denial,” he famously answered “Fantastic!” whenever asked how he was doing — no matter the circumstances.
Robi is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Bendorf; his children, Emily Fischer (Ted) and Tim Bendorf (Nancy); his grandchildren, Alissa Paolino (Nick), Jayne Bendorf, Corinne Fischer and Colette Fischer; his sister, Fanny Watts (Mike); his brother, Allen (Petrice) Bendorf; many nieces and nephews; and three very lucky grand-dogs. Services at Temple David, 4415 Northern Pike, Monroeville on Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026, at 10 a.m. Visitation at Temple one hour prior to service (9 to 10 a.m.). Interment Homewood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Robi’s memory to the Mario Lemieux Center for Blood Cancers at UPMC Hillman or Temple David, Monroeville, PA. Robi H. Bendorf taught us — by example — that a life well lived is one filled with learning, service, creativity, humor, and love. And by every measure, his was truly … fantastic. Arrangements entrusted to Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc. schugar.com PJC