Robert L. Rabe, 76, died peacefully Oct. 18, 2018, in his Zionsville home, surrounded by his family. Born in Allentown, formerly of East Greenville, he was a son of the late Louis W. and Edith C. (Behrle) Rabe.

He was a loving father and great friend to those who traveled in his circles. He was extremely hard working with great mechanical aptitude, spending his lifelong career working in residential construction as a heavy equipment operator.

He was a loving, offbeat, creative thinker who always helped a friend in need. We are forever grateful for his love and presence.

He is survived by his five children, Robert (Susan), of Murrysville, Kathleen Lyons (Tom), of Prospect Park, Kevin (Jeannette), of Thornton, Donna Chiappardi (Chris), of Zionsville and Sandra Fusco (Brandon), of Drexel Hill and their mother, Diane Matava Gardner; 10 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; brother, John, of Zionsville; beloved companion of 30 years, Debbie Cotter, of Media.

He was predeceased by a son, William Gordon; grandson, Matthew Scott Gallagher; sister, Edythe Louise Gozdiskowski.

Memorial contributions may be made to Fox Chase Cancer Center for Bladder Cancer Research, 333 Cottman Ave., Philadelphia, 19111-2497.

Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Oct. 26, at the Mann-Slonaker Funeral Home, 222 Washington St., East Greenville, 18041. A viewing will be held 10 to 11 a.m. prior to the service.