Robert D. Hess, 95, of Delta, PA, died peacefully on Wednesday, February 7, 2024. Robert was born on September 16, 1928, in Delta, PA, to his late parents, H. Lyle and Mary E. (Thompson) Hess. He married his high school sweetheart and class mate, Doris M. Snyder on September 25, 1948. Sadly, she preceded him in death on February 26, 2016, after 68 years of marriage.

Robert graduated from Lower Chanceford High School in 1946 and was immediately employed by the Pennsylvania State College Agriculture Extension Office of York County as a Dairy Heard Improvement Supervisor for seven years. He then began a 27 year career working for Aberdeen Proving Ground as a Program Analyst for Test and Evaluation Command.

He was a lifelong and active member of Salem United Methodist Church, Delta, PA, where he served in many capacities. He and Doris were Youth Fellowship leaders in their earlier years and they succeeded Robert's parents and grandparents as Communion Stewards for over 30 years. Robert was also a Sunday school and Church treasurer for over 30 years and served as the Chairman of Trustees.

His fraternal memberships include; Friendship Lodge #663 F&AM, Fawn Grove, PA, Valley of Harrisburg Consistory and Red Lion Scottish Rite, PRR Technical & Historical Society, as well as several other railroad historical societies. He was an avid model railroader and wood carver. His decoys are in collections in many states, Japan and Italy. He was a rail fan and rode trains in many states and 13 European countries. He also enjoyed gardening, photography and instrumental music.

Robert is survived by his children; Lowell R. (Barbara) Hess and Gregory L. Hess and his former wife, Martha Jo Horton. He is also survived by his grandchildren; Matthew L. (Elizabeth) Hess, Alecia (Brett) Morris, Heather (Daniel) Liester, Lyla (Simon) Overmiller, and Rachel Hess, fiancée of Joshua Resh. In addition, he is survived by his great grandchildren; McKenna Morris, Devan Frantz, Chase Morris, Augusten Hess, Taryn Liester, Olyn Overmiller and Leona Overmiller.

In addition to his parents and beloved wife, Robert was preceded in death by his brothers; Gerald L. Hess (Marion and Evelyn), of Denver, CO, and Martin R. "Bill" Hess (Charlotte and Elizabeth), of Delta, PA.

A viewing will be held on Tuesday, February 13, 2024 from 9:30 am until 11:00 am, at Salem Church, 5042 Delta Road, Delta, PA. The funeral service will begin in the Sanctuary of the church at 11:00 am, with Rev. Lanny Kilgore officiating. Burial will be held immediately following the funeral in the adjoining church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting memorial contributions are made to: Salem Church, 5042 Delta Road, Delta, PA 17314.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Harkins Funeral Home, Inc., of Delta, PA.