Robert M. Hemphill, 99, a resident of the Reformed Presbyterian Home in Pittsburgh, Pa., formerly of Beaver Falls, Pa., passed away Tuesday, Sept. 3, 2013.

Bob was a member and elder emeritus of First RP Church of Beaver Falls and the former Geneva RP Church. He retired from Geneva College in 1984 after 35 years of service. He was preceded in death by his wife Helen LaVerne Raisley Hemphill, and four brothers, Raymond, Wendell, Willard and Kenneth.

He is survived by two daughters and sons-in-law, Sandra & Lauren Wolcott, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Marilyn & Allen Curry, North Wales, Pa; two grandchildren and their spouses, Dana & Keith Harbison and Todd & Kristin Curry; five grandchildren, Maia, Alexa, Erin, Caedmon & Ella; a sister, Marguerite Dean (d. 1/5/14), North Sewickley Twp., and a sister-in-law, Jean Hemphill, Pittsburgh.

Bob had many talents. He was born and raised near Belle Center, Ohio, where he worked at many farm-related jobs. While attending Geneva College, he worked at Geneva, built homes, sold bread, and worked at two factories. He joined the staff of Geneva in 1949, serving as assistant business manager and then as manager of Metheny Field House. Many relatives, friends and Geneva students benefited from his skills as a barber, and enjoyed Bob and Helen’s hospitality.

While he managed Metheny Field House he befriended the athletes and shared his wisdom with them. They lovingly called him Duke and established an award in his name.

After retiring, he and Helen traveled throughout the U.S. and the Caribbean. He took up painting and recorded many memorable scenes, animals, and people from their travels. While at the RP Home, he became known as Artist in Residence.

With a servant’s heart he loved his Lord, his church, his family, and his friends.