Robert J. Webb, Jr.

Robert J. Webb, 74, of Holland, passed away September 17, 2014 at his home. He was born in Toledo on January 13, 1940 to the late Robert and Geraldine Webb. Robert attended grade school at the former Irwin Elementary in Spencer Sharples Township and graduated from Springfield High School in 1958. He valued education and attained his goal of graduating from college when he earned his engineering degree from the University of Toledo. He would go on to earn an additional degree in business. Robert was a dedicated and tireless worker. In the 60s, he worked for the former DeVilbiss Co. as a research engineer. He then served as a clerk, treasurer and board member with the former Spencer Sharples School District until the district was absorbed by Toledo Public Schools. Robert was keenly interested in working to improve the district, the community and lives of the people who lived in the district. In the late 60s, he became the Executive Director of the Spencer Sharples Opportunity Center, a social agency that was operating out of a small building. As director of the center, Robert worked diligently to meet the needs of the community. He dreamed of a better facility to accommodate the needs of the residents and with the permission of the Lucas County Commissioners, Robert wrote a proposal to the federal government for a new building. The proposal was accepted and his dream became a reality. The new 30,000 square foot facility was opened in 1979 and the name was changed to the Lucas County Development Corporation. The new center included a day care, senior citizens programs, health and dental care, nutrition and food programs, activities and work programs for youth and a transportation program for seniors. Robert found great joy in working with the young people of the community. He was an advisor and mentor for many, always willing to hear their concerns, help them make wise choices and encourage them to lead productive lives. Robert retired in 2002 but continued to volunteer at the center until his health began to fail. In his free time, he loved sports and was an avid golfer. Robert is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Juanita (White) Webb; four children whom he cherished, Kevin (Shawn), Yvette, Vincent and Robert III (Donnella) Webb; twelve grandchildren; five great grandchildren; brother, Victor; sister, Sarah Thomas; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was also preceded in death by sisters, Delores Webb and Rose Fisher; and brothers, Dean , Gerald and Tyrone Webb. Funeral services to honor Roberts life will be held at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, September 24, 2014 in the Walker Funeral Home, 5155 Sylvania Ave. (west of Corey Rd.) where visitation will begin at 11:30 a.m. Burial will follow at Resurrection Cemetery.