Robert "Bob" Michael Sylvester

Robert Michael Sylvester

Robert “Bob” M. Sylvester, 72, of Broomall, PA passed away peacefully on October 23rd in Bryn Mawr, PA with his loving daughter and son by his side.

Bob was born on June 3rd, 1954 in Philadelphia and was the eldest child of Richard and Georgia (Stephano) Sylvester. He was raised in Broomall and Newtown Square, PA, and graduated from Marple Newtown Senior High School in 1972. Georgia encouraged him to earn a degree, and he soon enrolled at Temple University. He commuted, worked several jobs to help pay tuition, and took summer and evening courses. He graduated in 1977 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering.

On a July evening in 1974 he met Janice Kane on a blind date. Bob and Janice fell in love, and were married at St. Anastasia’s Parish church on November 26, 1977. After a few years, they welcomed their son Brian and settled in Broomall to raise their growing family. Their daughter Laura was born a few years later.

Bob had a long career as a mechanical engineer and took pride in his work, earning recognition from coworkers for his strong work ethic. He made numerous friends on the job, and cherished those relationships long after he retired.

Bob was enthusiastic about many things. He loved television and movies, especially goofy ones like Young Frankenstein and holiday classics like White Christmas; he was enamored with classic cars especially the ’69 Camaro he had for a few years in his youth; he took enormous satisfaction in maintaining and landscaping his home in Broomall; he loved reminiscing and sharing stories about his childhood, from neighborhood escapades to family vacations in Maine.

Bob was beloved by all who knew him. He was generous to everyone, had an optimistic nature, and showed an exuberance for things he loved. He was happiest among close family and friends. Above all, he adored his late wife, Janice, his children and grandchildren. Throughout his whole life he gave them limitless support, unwavering encouragement, and joyful love.

Bob is predeceased by his parents, Richard and Georgia Sylvester, and wife Janice Sylvester. He is survived by his son Brian (Emily Parker), and his daughter Laura Pelkey (Todd), and four beloved grandchildren: Julian & Elijah Sylvester and Addison & Quinn Pelkey. He is also survived by his sister Judy Harper, many nieces and nephews, and many dear friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to honor Bob at his Visitation on Monday, November 2, 2026, 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM and to his Funeral Mass, 10:30 AM at St. Anastasia Church, 3301 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square, PA 19073. Interment immediately following at SS. Peter and Paul Cemetery, Springfield, PA.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the American Cancer Society, www.cancer.org/donate/memorial-giving.html  or the Foundation for Fighting Blindness, www.blindness.org.