Obituary of Robert J. Grandizio

Robert J. Grandizio, Sr Of O'hara Township, formerly Swissvale, passed away peacefully on March 2, 2023, with his family by his side. Beloved husband of Cynthia (Pardon) with whom he spent 58 incredible years. Devoted father to Leigh (Ken), Shari, Bobby (Pam) and Lara. Loving and playful Pop-Pop to Sonny, Taryn, Taylor, Cullen, Tommy, Emma, Callie, Briana, Marley, Dillon, Blaise, Tobin, Sofia and Deacon. Bob was born June 6, 1943 to Hilda and Frank in Swissvale, PA and graduated from Swissvale High School Class of 1961. He was the first of his family to attend college and graduated from Springfield College in 1965 where he starred on the football and baseball fields. Shortly after graduating college, Bob and Cindy were married and Bob realized his lifelong dream of educating and coaching young people when he accepted a job at Shady Side Academy. He served as a science and physical education teacher and coached football, wrestling, and baseball. Bob remained a teacher, coach, athletic director, administrator and mentor at Shady Side Academy for 32 years and also spent 11 years as the Assistant Head and Director of Admissions at the Kiski School in Saltsburg, PA. Bob made an impact on so many with is charm, wit, intelligence, and natural leadership skills. He had a gift for making others feel welcome and appreciated while also challenging them to be their best and contribute to the greater good. He was committed to impacting others' lives in a positive way and was a constant source of advice, support, discipline, and a few good laughs for decades. Bob had a lifelong love for the city of Pittsburgh, its sports teams, music, movies and was a voracious reader. Whenever he had the chance, Bob loved playing golf with colleagues, traveling with his wife and close friends, and attending sporting events with his family. All of these interests took a backseat to simple family functions like Sunday dinners and birthdays where his unconditional love for family and friends was on full display. Bob made a lasting impression on so many people that is legacy will live on for many years to come. A memorial service will be held to celebrate Bob's remarkable life on April 1, 2023 at 1pm, at the Hillman Center for Performing Arts at Shady Side Academy, 423 Fox Chapel Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15238 In lieu of flowers, remembrances can be made to Shady Side Academy, 423 Fox Chapel Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15238 or supportssa.org.. www.niedfuneralhome.com