Obituary of Dr. Robert J. Stegner

Dr. Robert J. Stegner, DDS, 91, and a lifelong resident of Honesdale, passed to eternal life Tuesday morning, March 13, 2018 at 12:15 A.M. at the family home. He was the son of the late Robert E. and Leila A. Stegner, and brother of Joan M. Stegner and Janet T. Stegner who survive him.

The family still lives in the home his parents built before their marriage in 1923.  Dr. Stegner was born September 30, 1926, in Honesdale.  In his youth, he helped his father at J.H. Stegner & Sons Bakery.  Later, he was a Western Union Boy, delivering telegrams by bicycle at .35 cents an hour.  He began playing trumpet, and with his neighbor and friend, Dick Varcoe (saxophone), formed a Dance Band.  Other members of the band were Laceta Bates (piano), Walter Kimble (caller), and Lou Mang (Drum).   They played throughout Wayne County, as summer boarders enjoyed dancing; especially square dancing.  He never took a drink.  Hose Co. #1 sponsored an Easter Monday Ball and because of his beautiful trumpet tone of Easter Parade, his twin sisters, Joan and Janet chose trumpet as their instrument.

After High School graduation, Bob enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps and was trained as a B-29 mechanic.  This took him to Okinawa.  He was honorably discharged as Sergeant in 1947, and entered St. Bonaventure College, followed by Temple University School of Dentistry.  He opened his office at 617 Main Street, Honesdale, the building his grandfather once owned.  Dr. Stegner practiced over 40 years.  He appreciated the friendship of many of his patients.  His retirement was a happy one as he had many interests, among them, and most important- the care of his parents.  It was an enjoyable time, and they lived to be 91 (Mother) and 104 (Father) in their own home.

The family expresses their thanks to the many people who offered help during his illness and at his passing.

Also surviving are sister, Grace Stegner Keen; nephews, Robert Keen and wife Nancy, and Philip Keen and wife Gail.

Arrangements are entrusted to Jenkins – Howell Funeral Home Inc., Edward Howell, Funeral Director, Supervisor, 269 Belmont Street, Waymart, PA 18472.

Private Burial is in Bethany Cemetery.

www.JenkinsHowellFuneralHome.com