Robert A. Light

Robert A. Light

WADSWORTH/GENEVA – Robert Alan Light, 74, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 4, 2026, at Boulder Crossing Health and Rehabilitation in Streetsboro, OH.

Born on January 18, 1952, in Geneva, Ohio, he was the son of Robert R. Light and Monna Light-O’Connor (Mansfield). He was a 1970 graduate of Geneva High School and a 1974 graduate of Miami University. He was a member of the Phi Kappa Tau fraternity.

Rob will be remembered for his deep love of sports, especially his hometown teams. A devoted fan of the Cleveland Guardians, he could often be found at the ballpark throughout the season, enjoying the game alongside family and friends. He also gave generously of his time, volunteering for many hours coaching baseball and basketball for Perry Recreation and at the Soprema Senior Center in Wadsworth, where he formed lasting friendships. His passion for rock and roll and live music was a defining part of his life, often taking him to concerts, most notably to see his favorite Journey tribute band, Escape. A longtime and dedicated member of Painesville Baptist Church, Rob’s faith and sense of community were central to who he was.

Above all, Rob was a loving father, a proud and devoted Papa, a caring brother and uncle, and a loyal friend to many. As the cherished grandfather of eight, he rarely missed a moment in their lives. He spent countless weekends refereeing volleyball games, standing on the sidelines of soccer matches, cheering from the audience at dance competitions, cheerleading events, and theater productions, or simply enjoying time outdoors playing with his grandchildren.

Rob was a skilled union carpenter by trade and a proud member of Local 95 for 19 years. He also served his community as a long-term substitute teacher, coach, and OHSAA Official, refereeing multiple sports including baseball, basketball, and volleyball. His dedication to mentorship and service left a lasting impact on those he worked with and guided.

He is survived by his children: Jenny (Vinnie) Spitalieri, Josh (Michelle) Light, Derek (Evie) Light, and Dean Light; his grandchildren: Celia, Gemma, Mackenzie, Antonio, Lucille, Eleanor, Benjamin, and Oliver. He is also survived by his sister, Betty (Vince) Barchanowicz and brother, Michael (Jessica) Light, his nieces and nephews, and the mothers of his children, Kitty Keenan and Emily Light.

Rob was preceded in death by his father, Robert R. Light, who passed away in 1978, and his mother, Monna Light-O’Connor who passed away in 2025.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 8, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at the Painesville Baptist Church, 1307 Riverside Dr., Painesville, OH. A Celebration of Life will be held on June 14, 2026 during the Cleveland Guardians game at 1:40 p.m.