Robert Oberholtzer, Navy veteran and healer, dies at 76

Robert N. Oberholtzer passed away at home Aug. 19, 2025, at the age of 76 after a long struggle with cardiac and pulmonary issues. He was predeceased by his loving parents, Wilmer and Nancy, his mother-in-law, Charlotte, and his wife, Maureen Gilligan. He is survived by many who will miss him, including his children Hugh (Crystal Socha) and Cathleen; his sister, Ruthanne Ferguson, and brother, David, and their families; as well as the Wise and Rosen families, and many others.

Born in Lancaster, Pa., on Oct. 6, 1948, Robert — or Bob to many who knew him, Doc and Obie to others — spent his youth enjoying nature, raising animals, becoming an Eagle Scout, being a varsity track athlete, and playing percussion in the school marching band. These early experiences instilled in him a deep connection to nature and music.

Bob enlisted in the Navy during the Vietnam War, where he trained as a medic and found a passion for blending science with caring for others. These passions led him into a career as a health professional in New York City: first as a phlebotomist, then a physician assistant, and finally as a physical therapist specializing in home health and wound care.

It was during those early days of his career, while working night shifts in a Brooklyn hospital, that an accidental meeting changed his life. Bob bumped into his future wife, Maureen, during one shift, and they would go on to spend the next 50 years together. They eventually moved to Staten Island before settling in Plainsboro, N.J., where they started a family. Bob looked back on his years in Plainsboro with fond memories, being well known in his community and often found spending long hours caring for his yard. He took great pride in serving the Trenton community with the Visiting Nurses Association. During that time, Bob also became a certified Reiki practitioner.

Bob lived a life rich with passions and interests. He spent long hours archiving and sharing his music collection or picking up an instrument to play. He lit up when talking about the Grateful Dead, the Rolling Stones, and all kinds of rock and roll. He was an active member of the recovery community for many years, volunteering with “the club” and speaking to young adults struggling with addiction. He enjoyed snorkeling and scuba diving, gardening and lawn care, caring for many pets, photography, cooking, candle making, and exploring different spiritual and cultural traditions without judgment.

He will be remembered for the many lives he touched personally and professionally, the strength he demonstrated in the face of challenges, his acceptance of others no matter their background, and his values of service, family, and compassion. His wish was that the world might experience a little more peace and love.

A memorial gathering will begin at Kimble Funeral Home on Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025, at 10 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m.