Robert David Dillon

                                                                                              Robert D. Dillon

                               “He seized life with joy. He gave to life generously. He leaves a legacy of love and laughter.”

Robert David Dillon, 83, entered his eternal rest on Tuesday, November 3, at Mahoning Post Acute in Lehighton, Pennsylvania. Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on March 21, 1943, to Normand and Florence Hensel Dillon, he was known simply as Bob to all who knew and loved him. When introduced to new acquaintances, he would often joke that he was “the real Bob Dillon.” He was a graduate of Frankford High School and proudly served in the United States Army.

Bob met his childhood sweetheart, Kathleen Loeb, at the age of 10 in Town Bank, New Jersey. Their remarkable love story spanned 70 years, and they celebrated 57 years of marriage before Kathy entered the heavenly realm in April 2023. Together they raised two beloved daughters, and Bob treasured every moment spent with his family.

Bob lived life with passion and enthusiasm. He was a larger-than-life personality with an enormous heart to match. His many interests included showing Weimaraners, raising turtles and fish, building projects, admiring classic cars, and riding motorcycles. Yet none of these passions surpassed his desire to lead others into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. He genuinely loved people and never met a stranger. More than a mechanical engineer and machinist, Bob was a deep thinker whose compassion touched everyone he encountered. He continually searched for God’s purpose in life and cared deeply about the needs of others. He faithfully remembered the prayer concerns of his church family, friends, and many within the motorcycle community he loved.

Bob delighted in sharing the Gospel and the joy he found in Scripture. He led the Ready Riders chapter of the Christian Motorcycle Association in Pennsylvania. After moving to Indiana, he founded the New Life Riders Motorcycle Ministry and shared his monthly devotional newsletters with all who wished to receive them. Kathy was his partner in nearly everything he did, especially in ministry. By consistently placing the needs of others before his own, Bob left an unforgettable mark on countless lives. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, and his legacy will continue through his daughters, their families, and the many friends whose lives he touched.

Bob is survived by his two daughters, Kathleen (Gary) Matson of Palmerton, Pennsylvania, and Rev. Robin Dillon of Lakewood, Ohio; his grandchildren, Nicole (Amber) DiGerlando of Alfred, New York, and Eric Matson of Zellwood, Florida; his great-granddaughter, Rowan DiGerlando of Hudson, New York; and his companion and feathered friend, Merlin.

A memorial service will be held at a future date at Avon United Methodist Church. Memorial contributions may be made to Avon United Methodist Church, 6850 E. U.S. Highway 36, Avon, IN 46123. Local arrangements are under the care of Schisler Funeral Home, Northampton, PA.

                                                                        “To live in the hearts of those left behind is not to die.”