He was the patriarch of a large, loving family. Bob grew up in Pittsburgh, Pa., was a proud alumnus of the University of Dayton, was a talented psychologist, and an avid photographer.

He battled prostate cancer during the last chapter of his life, but continued to show his sense of humor and strong faith with everyone he met.

For years he taught psychology at the University of Dayton and was a season ticket holder at UD basketball games, which brought him great joy. He loved camping, flying an airplane, hot sauce, sailing and being with family. &bsp;

Bob is survived by his wife, Patty (Harris); daughters Bridgette Pyles, husband Adam and children Robby and Clare; Katie Martin, husband Chris Drew and children Carson and Brian; Sheila Mraz, husband Max and children Noah and Larkin; and Kelly Degnan, husband Don and children Parker and Riley; brother-in-law Ned Harris and his wife Linda; niece Mary Mulhall, her husband Kevin and children Connor, Cameron and Fiona; and nephew Jason. He will be missed and loved by family and friends. &bsp;

A memorial mass will be held on Saturday, Jan. 17 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church at 11 a.m. in Tryon. There will then be a celebration of Bob&squo;s life at an After Life After Party at FENCE in Tryon.

In lieu of flowers, if you care to make a donation, the family suggests one of the following:&bsp; Hospice of the Carolina Foothills, 130 Forest Glen Drive, Columbus, N.C. 28722; or to the Bob Martin Project, where proceeds will go to a deserving student who needs assistance: University of Dayton, The Bob Martin Project, 300 College Park, Dayton, Ohio 45469-2964.

Condolences may be left at www.pettyfuneralhome.com.

Petty Funeral Home and Crematory of Landrum is in charge of arrangements.

‐ paid obituary