Robert Dickman
February 24, 2017

DICKMAN, ROBERT: As befitting a man as generous and endearing as Bob Dickman, at age 96 his huge heart could not keep pace with his unwavering optimism that he would live forever… and it finally gave out. He died at home on February 24 and family, friends and relatives across the miles mourn his loss. Bob is survived by his devoted and loving wife Gene (Baim) Dickman, and his adoring two daughters Terry and Jody Dickman. Also survived by nephew Michael Marcovsky and niece JoAnn Gesner.  He was preceded in death by his daughter Cathy Dickman Mellott, sister Louise Dickman Marcovsky. Born in Pittsburgh on April Fools day, 1920, he was a hard working son who went to work at an early age to help support the family.  After graduating Allderdice High school in 1938 he found a job at Gardner Displays, a builder and producer of trade show exhibits. He had every good intention of going to college, but the money was too good and it appeared he had found his calling as an "exhibitionist." He held different positions at the company from 1938 until 1949 taking a four year break to serve in the US Navy during WWII. In 1950 a group of account executives asked for a raise but Mrs Gardner thought they were already making too much money and refused. So they left the company and founded their own exhibit company named GRS&W, which were the initials of the executives last names.  If he had the $5000 to invest, it would have been GRSW&D. It become very successful and he became its president. In 1974, a British company made them an offer they couldn't refuse.  The company was sold and was called Giltspur. He courted and married Gene in 1948 and inherited her massive family of which he became the patriarch.  He was the life of the party whether hosting tennis events, in which he also was a competitive player, or Thanksgiving weekends at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort.In retirement he was a lifelong learner at OSHER, CMU and arranged interesting bus excursions for his contemporaries. More recently he was an active participant at Anathan Club. Bob Dickman's "Remember to live" tattoo and tandem sky dive in commemoration of his 90th birthday exemplify his indomitable spirit. His legacy of kindness, light and love will prevail in the lives of everyone he touched. Graveside Services and Interment will be held on Tuesday at 11 AM at West View Cemetery of Rodef Shalom Congregation. A memorial celebration will follow at Rodef Shalom Temple, 4905 Fifth Avenue (at Morewood) at 12:30 PM with a reception to follow. Memorial contributions may be made in Bob's memory to a charity of the donor's choice. Arrangements entrusted to Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc. www.schugar.com  

Condolences

Dear Gene..I send my heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Bob\'s generosity of spirit and his lovely personality warmed my life in Pittsburgh. You and Bob served as mentors and inspiration to many of us. I am grateful for the time you both spent with me.