Stanley Robert "Bob" Zola, 74, passed away February 2, 2026, following a 14-year battle with prostate cancer. He was at home, surrounded by his family. Bob lived a life centered on family, loyalty, humor and quiet strength, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Bob was born and raised in Pittsburgh, a fact he was proud to share. Bob carried his hometown pride throughout his life, especially when it came to the Steelers and the Pirates.  Year after year they tested his patience, but he never gave up on them. Each season began with renewed hope. Cheering for his teams kept him connected to his roots and sparked many spirited conversations.

Bob earned a BA in finance from John Carroll University and a MBA from Cleveland State University. It was in Cleveland where he met the love of his life, Debi, his wife of 48 years, his partner and best friend. He was the proud father of three sons - Jason (Kim), Jonathan (Laura), and Alexander (Steph). And his favorite people, his six grandchildren - Luke, Heidi, Benjamin, Remington, Penelope, and Cecilia.  He loved them all unconditionally and showed it through steady support, guidance, and humor.

Bob is also survived by his sister Janet Egger (John), with whom he shared a lifelong bond that survived geographical distance. He was predeceased by his parents, Stanley and Alice, who shaped his deep sense of loyalty and devotion to family.

Bob's professional career was all about GAS. He began his career by running the first Self-Serve gas stations in Cleveland for SOHIO (BP). Then he traveled across the country to California for an opportunity to get into the propane business. After six successful years, he was off to Arizona where he started his own propane company. But missing family and life east of the Mississippi, he relocated to New Jersey. There he continued building his career while waiting for the right opportunity. That opportunity came in 2002 when he was named President of Sharp Energy (a subsidiary of Chesapeake Utilities). He served in this role until his retirement. Bob loved his work - but even more, he loved the people he worked with. He was a mentor, a teacher and a leader who genuinely cared about his employees. His leadership was built on trust, loyalty, and doing the right thing, even when it wasn't easy.

Bob had four great passions - Fishing, Civil War history, Classic Rock and Roll, and his Pittsburgh Sports Teams.

He taught all his sons how to fish, though Alex shared his passion from a young age. Together they traveled from Maryland, and Tennessee to Canada looking for that Big One! He was also a member of the International Angler and traveled to the Bahamas.  It wasn't always about the catch but the experience and memories he created with his sons. That included teaching all the grandkids how to fish at his favorite place on earth, The Ranch in the Poconos.

He had a deep love of Civil War history. He made annual trips to Gettysburg and surrounding battlefields, just walking the grounds. He hired tour guides, and read extensively, continually learning. He even taught classes at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at UD, sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm with others

He loved to dance and sing, knowing the words to every classic rock and roll song. He traveled frequently to see classic cover bands, and saw his favorites, Led Zeppelin, The Doors and Queen many times. At many a family wedding he could often be found near the stage, or on it, rocking out to the tunes.

And of course, there was the Pittsburgh Steelers, (he was actually there for the Immaculate Reception!) and was always hoping this was the year that the Steelers would get that 7th ring!

But above all else, Bob was a family man. He had a quick wit, a generous heart and a knack for making everyone laugh. Bob's legacy of laughter, loyalty, and love will be carried on by those who knew and loved him.

Family and friends are invited to a Visitation at Resurrection Catholic Church, 3000 Videre Dr. Wilmington DE 19808 on March 12, 2026, from 10A.M. to 11A.M. Followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11A.M. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to support the research of Dr Samuel Denmeade, Bob's oncologist at Johns Hopkins Hospital.  All funds donated will go directly to Dr. Denmeade's cancer research, as Bob requested.

You can make a gift online. A direct giving link can be found here: ONCO-Kimmel | Johns Hopkins Secure eCommerce (jhu.edu) >