Robert "Bob" Albert Casey Jr

Talented Actor – Great Man  

Robert “Bob” A. Casey, Jr., age 73, of Lancaster, formerly of Camp Hill, joined his beloved wife, Michele, in heaven and with his family by his side at Penn State Health Lancaster Medical Center on Monday, August 28, 2023.  Bob was born on Sunday, June 4, 1950, in Danville to the late Robert “Bob” A. Casey, Sr. and Louise (Wenner) Casey.  Bob was the widower of Michele Marie (Baker) Casey, whom he married on August 25, 1973, and who died on August 25, 2012.  In addition to his parents and wife, Bob is preceded in death by his father-in-law, Vern Hoover; his mother-in-law, Marie Hoover; his sister-in-law, Pat Bankert; and his two brothers-in-law: John Baker and Bob Baker.  

Bob’s survivors include his children: Kathlene “Kait” Linton and her husband, Dave, of Lancaster; James R. Casey, Sr. and wife, Melissa, of Mechanicsburg; his seven grandchildren: Jimmy, Ellie, Jovie, Savannah, Charlotte, Heath, and S.J.; his sister: Amy Jo Casey; his two sisters-in-law: Elizabeth Leach and Ann Pierce; his loving niece, Charity Mackes; and his beloved canine companion: Sadie.  

Bob began his performing career early at the age of 4 when singing his first solo at his family’s Methodist Church in Lightstreet, PA.  As a young person, he continued cultivating his love of the arts through his involvement with theater, marching band, and school publications including the yearbook.  Bob even wrote a play at the age of 14 — From Carrie’s Plantation to Gettysburg.  As an actor, Bob was master of his craft. He treasured his years at Bloomsburg University where he starred in many productions and met the love of his life (and favorite leading lady), Michele.  Bob brought life to every stage on which he performed over the years.  He was a talented leading man, and fondly recalled his roles as Don Quixote, The King, Captain Von Trapp, Emile de Becque, Papa Charlie, The Cowardly Lion, and so many others.  

As a director, Bob was a perfectionist. His attention to detail was unmatched and his sets were always immaculate.  He directed many productions with Trinity High School, MetRep, and MiShar Productions on stages around the country.  Some of his favorite theaters included The Dutch Apple, Genetti’s, The Host Inn, Oyster Mill Playhouse, Little Theater of Mechanicsburg, Capitol Dinner Theater, and The Ramada Inn (Laughlin, NV).  Many of his cast members will likely recall his unique style of direction (“Honk honk! You could drive a truck through that pause!”).  

As an educator, Bob loved pushing his students to step outside of their own experience to see the world through the eyes of others.  He brought a sense of both urgency and humor to nearly every lesson he taught.  Whether it was vocabulary or literary analysis, Mr. Casey’s class was full of life.  Every student was welcome and encouraged to be their authentic self.  This way of teaching was honored in 2001 when he received the Voice of Democracy’s Teacher of the Year Award.  

As a coach, Bob demanded the best from his students.  The many years he spent as a figurehead in the Pennsylvania High School Speech League (PHSSL) are a testament to his dedication to mentoring talented speakers and writers.  This led to his induction into the PHSSL Hall of Fame in 2004.  The students on his team and those fortunate enough to have him as a judge always got honest, constructive feedback intended to bring out the very best in their abilities.  

As a volunteer, Bob shared his gifts with every organization he worked with.  He spent many years as an active member in the Kiwanis Club and the Knights of Columbus organizing events, fundraisers, and providing services to his local community.  He truly had a servant’s heart.  

As a family man and friend, Bob never missed an opportunity to show how he felt about the people he loved.  From family vacations to the casino slots, Bob knew how to have a good time.  He loved shopping and decorating, going to soccer games, gardening, and spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.  He loved to reminisce — to share and listen to stories about the many adventures he had with others.  Bob was a very loving and generous man all the days of his life.  And while his presence will surely be missed by many, his impact will be felt for generations to come.  

All are welcome to join Bob’s family at his Mass of Christian Burial on Friday, September 8, 2023, beginning at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 410 E Simpson St, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055; with Reverend Michael Rothan celebrating.  The family will not be greeting guests at the church.  Interment in Holy Cross Cemetery in Harrisburg, will be private and at the family’s convenience.  Cremation was private.  

Friends and family are invited for a time of food and fellowship at Bob’s Celebration of Life Open House from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Buhrig’s Gathering Place, 25 East Main Street, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055, (717) 766-3421 (next to Buhrig Funeral Home & Crematory).  The family encourages everyone to dress casually so please no ties or jackets.  Over 100 parking spaces are available; just look for the “Buhrig” parking signs in all of our parking lots.  

The family will not be accepting flowers, instead, contributions in celebration of Bob’s life can be made to Little Theatre of Mechanicsburg, 915 South York Street, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055, https://LTMpa.com/Donations or Oyster Mill Playhouse, 1001 Oyster Mill Road, Camp Hill, PA 17011.  

Bob’s family has entrusted his care to Buhrig Funeral Home & Crematory in Mechanicsburg, (717) 766-3421.  Read Bob’s full obituary, view his memorial video and portrait, offer condolences and sympathy, share stories and memories, upload photographs and videos, light a candle and sign his official guest book by visiting Buhrig.com.