Service measured not by GOLD,
                           but by the GOLDEN RULE

Service measured not by GOLD,
          but by the GOLDEN RULE

330.262.7771

Robert M. œBob  Szala, 94, of Wooster died on Thursday, June 9, 2022 at Ohio ™s Hospice LifeCare.
He was born March 2, 1928 in Tire Hill, PA to Martin and Anna Punchak Szala.   Bob proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy.
Bob and Irene opened their first meat market, Wooster Food Market, in 1966 on South Market Street.    They later relocated to Bob’s Wooster Food Market on Bowman Street where they were known for quality meat and old fashioned customer service for over 20 years, greeting every customer with a smile.    After selling the market and semi-retiring, Bob continued to help out the new owner and also worked part time in his son’s beef jerky business. He and Irene were volunteer gardeners at the Secrest Arboretum. Gardening was his favorite past-time next to fishing.    Bob was a member of the American Legion, Fraternal Order of the Elks, Eagles, Moose, Knights of Columbus, and Lamplighter’s.
He is survived by his wife of over 72 years, Irene Tigyer Szala; son Michael (Marcia) Szala of Valparaiso, FL; grandchildren Nicholas Szala (Kristyn), Rachel Szala (Mark Courtney), Amanda (Crowther) Olsen (Patrick), Jayce Crowther (Fukuko), Michael Crowther (Sierra); six great-grandchildren and a sister Dolores Carnahan of OH
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Stephanie Crowther and a brother Richard Szala.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, June 14, 2022 at 11:00 AM at St. Mary Catholic Church, 527 Beall Ave., with Rev. Stephan Moran officiating.   Interment will follow in St. Mary Cemetery.
Friends will be received one hour prior to the service at the church.
McIntire, Bradham & Sleek Funeral Home, 216 E. Larwill St., Wooster is assisting the family.
The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations could go to Friends at Secrest Arboretum,3540 Burbank Rd, #190, Wooster, OH 44691.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mcintirebradhamsleek.com.

Memorial Contributions
The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations could go to Friends at Secrest Arboretum,3540 Burbank Rd, #190, Wooster, OH 44691.

Service
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, June 14, 2022 at 11:00 AM at St. Mary Catholic Church, 527 Beall Ave.

Visitation
Friends will be received one hour prior to the service at the church.

12 Comments

  1. Bob was a really great guy. He was as much part of the Italian neighborhood as I was.

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  2. My Condolences to the Szala Family. What a wonderful person and friend he was to so many! I grew up visiting his store on market street, then working for him on Bowman Street. The Szala’s family gave so much in our area and I carry found memories of Bob and Irene. Sending prayers for comfort and peace.

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  3. My prayers and thoughts to Irene and the rest of the family. Bob and Irene were the most friendly people I have dealt with especially in the wonderful store on Bowman Street. Our family had dealt with them over two generations before they retired. Bob still worked for the new owner after retiring. He always had a beautiful smile for everyone and was so willing to help you find what you needed. They do not make people anymore who are so accommodating and helpful as Bob and Irene were. I will certainly miss Bob and his smile and send all my love to Irene and the family. Bob rest in peace you have earned it.

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  4. Irene and family, We visited both of your meat markets for years. Bob and Irene were always so friendly and helpful. My prayers and deepest sympathy to all

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  5. As much as we enjoyed shopping at Bob’s, the conversation was the real treat. What a great guy. Condolences to Irene,Mike, and the Szala family.

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  6. Dear Irene and your family. OH, we knew Bob was ill for a long time, but this is still a shock. Like he could live forever. After you moved to your condo, out of our neighborhood, ow we missed seeing the two of you walking together! And seeing your lovely gardens at your home down on Tanglewood!
    From shopping in your Market on Bowman St, when we lived at the corner of Washington St, and through the times we’d get to see you in the grocery store, even after Bob couldn’t come with you anymore, you both always made us feel loved and happy! Just like always.
    You are both in our hearts and prayers. What wonderful beings you both are and were and will always be! Big hugs and much love from Jimmy and me, Susi.

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  7. Bob will be missed by all who knew him, he always had a smile for anyone that he met. From cleaning his coolers at the store, to all the fishing trip he took us on. He will be missed. Not only as a father to Mike but a friend to me My condolences to Irene, Mike, and the Szala family

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  8. The time I spent with Bob was priceless. Sharing and comparing the changes in the meat business over the years, the changes in the neighborhood and customers. Bob always had a smile and if asking him about himself you would hear” good good “. Bob was a person I can say I’m a better person for knowing. The pride he had for his family would show on his face when talking of their accomplishments. There were plenty. RIP Bob

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  9. Szala family, I was saddened to read about the loss of your loved one. Bob was a great person,always had a smile and greeting no matter how busy he was.I enjoyed all the years I did buisness with him , as he was honest and fair with everyone. I know he will be missed by many. You have my deepest sympathy.my thoughts and prayers are with you

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  10. Dear, Irene and family, I just heard of Bob’s passing. You have my deepest sympathy and prayers. Irene, if there is anything I can do for you please call me. My number is 330-466-5685.
    Tied calling you a few months back but there must have been a block on unknown numbers. You both have been in my daily devotions.
    God bless you Irene and family.
    Love,
    Mary Ann Massaro

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  11. Dear Irene, I so loved to come to your meat market on Bowman. Would often stop after being at St.Mary for the day.
    You both were very stong and courageous in your faith.
    I plan to see Bob in Heaven! And you too, when it is our time. May you have peace.
    Fondly, Mindy Brain former St. Mary Principal.

    Reply

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