Meadville, PA - Robert Vere Stanford, Sr., 83, of Meadville, passed away Sunday, June 8, 2025, at Meadville Medical Center.

Robert was born in Meadville, on December 13, 1941, a son of the late William Vere Stanford and Dorothy DeRouchie.

On June 21, 1967, Robert married Rose A. Lang; she preceded him in death on October 29, 2008.

Robert attended Saegertown Schools. He entered the US Army on September 8, 1961 and served his country honorably as a Paratrooper. Following his honorable discharge on January 30, 1964, Robert became employed as a long haul truck driver, ending his trucking career at Dad's Dog Food. He was a member of VFW Post #2006. In his younger years, he enjoyed hunting and fishing. He spent many years participating in Truck Pulls competing under the name of "Work in Progress".

Robert is survived by two children Tanya Matelan of Erie, Robert V. Stanford II (Allyon) of Ferrum, VA; seven grandchildren Madalyn Stanford, Caitland West, Josie Shartle, Clayton Stanford, Adam Matelan, Cooper Stanford, Jax Stanford; four great grandchildren; a step sister Luann DeRouchie of Lancaster; and a step brother Raymond DeRouchie of Meadville.

In addition to his wife, Rose, of 41 years, Robert was preceded in death by a daughter Sonya Marie Shartle and his aunt Marie Stanford, who raised him.

Family and friends are invited to call from 1-3 PM on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at STEPHEN P. MIZNER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 404 CHESTNUT ST., MEADVILLE, where Funeral services will follow at 3:00 PM with Frank Tipping officiating.

Robert will be laid to rest with his wife, Rose, in Venango Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in Robert's memory to a charity of the donor's choice.

Share a memory or condolence at www.miznerfuneralhome.com