02/04/2024
A Birthday Tribute to Bobby A. Mariotti from Mary Ellen Lukas
Your Life Dictated in Your Words
Robert A. Mariotti
February 4, 1946 – January 16, 2024
Passed away in his home Tuesday with Mary Ellen (Lukas) by his side. An immediate liturgy was said in their private chapel in their home attended by his adopted family and loved ones.
Son of Louis S. Mariotti and Sistina Augustine Mariotti both of Old Forge. Proud grandson of Louis Mariotti of Gubbio and Grandmother Eugenia- both from Italy. Bobby lived in Old Forge all his life and proudly held a dual citizenship i.e. USA and EU. Proud to be an American, Bobby was a Veteran and proudly displayed his love of country whenever and in whatever opportunity he had. One such opportunity that was presented- was his presence on the Penn State field at Beaver Stadium during the unfurling of our beautiful flag- it was such an emotional moment; “I will never forget it” said Bobby tearfully.
Bobby went to Old Forge School and graduated from Old Forge High School, class of 1963, where he played football (Number 22, Defensive End). His glory days included the year they won the Eastern Conference Football Championship. In 1963, he attended PSU Worthington campus and graduated in 1966 with a degree in drafting and design technology. During this time, he worked at Mariotti Lumber Co. with his father Louis and brother Eugene.
He married Kathleen Jeffers in 1966. She passed away October 5, 2008. Surviving are their three children: Robert Jr., Paul and Kathleen.
It was also in 1966 that along with his brother Eugene he became a founding member of Mariotti Building Products and in 1973 his brother Louis joined the company. Bobby worked at the company (redacted in newspaper) until he was terminated following the eulogy (https:www.eeshanchurch.org/post/a-son-s-testimony-of-his-father-adapted-from-the-eulogy-of-louis-mariotti-sr-1-6-2009) that he gave at the funeral of his father on January 2, 2009 before being on his way to Guadalupe. Bobby said, "I honored my father - when I was terminated it broke my heart. MBP was my pride and joy!"
Being an avid Penn State Alumnus, he and Mary Ellen rarely missed a home game, so much so, that all who knew him believed Penn State colors, blue and white, ran through his veins!
As Mary Ellen added: Whether he was teasing Jerry Jones owner of Dallas Cowboys about being a Giants fan or asking Paul McCartney about his day or stopping to talk with one of many homeless people- Bobby immediately won their hearts with his kindness, respect- and humor!!! The world may have lost the man, but the presence of his spirit and soul will always be with us. And where-ever you are- whenever you hear: “WE ARE” without a doubt you will hear Bobby shout, “PENN STATE!!!”
With sports aside- Bobby was instrumental in the purchasing of the property that today houses the Eeshan Church. Til this day, one of his greatest contributions was the building of the church's Bell Tower. He wanted to build the bell tower to call everyone to, "Bear the Light of Christ with joy!"
Mr. Mariotti also provided the lumber for hermitages for personal retreats, a commercial kitchen and additional guest rooms. Having a tremendous faith ethic he was a guiding light and leader during the transition of the ministry of Our Father’s Divine Work into, in his words, "an extraordinary religion.” He became one of the first members to leave the RC church and become Eeshan.
We attribute Bobby's dedication, support and love for Mary Ellen and pride in her work as the help that pushed Mary Ellen Lukas’ book, "Are You Still Mine?" To becoming a #1 best seller on Amazon twice. Bobby's final wish was only to be remembered in the prayers of those who loved him.
Belonging to the Eeshan religion, at his request, following cremation, Bobby’s final wishes also included that Mary Ellen arrange a celebratory service at a date of her choosing and by invitation only.
