Somerville

Robert D. “Bob” Somerville, 98, of Butler, passed away peacefully Wednesday, Nov. 26, 2025, at Newhaven Court at Clearview.

Born in Butler on Dec. 29, 1926, Bob was the son of Doyle and Laura B. Somerville. He enlisted in the Army Air Corps while still in high school and went to basic training after graduating in 1944.

Bob returned home to Butler and married the love of his life, Joan Hixon, on April 14, 1950. He built their home on Shanahan Road, where they raised their family.

Bob began his career at Armco Steel Works in 1948. He eventually transferred to the combustion engineering department in 1954, and was named combustion engineer in 1974, where he eventually retired in 1986, at the age of 59.

A devoted outdoorsman, Bob was well known throughout the Butler community for his love of hunting, fishing and spending time in the woods. He and some of his closest friends built a deer hunting lodge in Kane, Pa., and enjoyed many years doing what he loved most. He had numerous hobbies and interests, including hunting, skeet shooting, handloading and fishing.

Above all, Bob was a man of deep and steadfast faith and joyfully shared his love for Jesus Christ. Bob was a member of Orchard Hill Church in Butler.

Bob is survived by his son, Jon Somerville; his daughter, Sue Ann Smith of Pittsburgh; four grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

SOMERVILLE — Funeral services for Robert D. “Bob” Somerville, who died Wednesday, Nov. 26, 2025, are being held at THOMPSON-MILLER FUNERAL HOME, 124 E. North St., Butler, on Sunday, Nov. 30. Visitation will take place from 1 to 4 p.m., with the funeral service to follow immediately at 4 p.m. Pastor Brady Randall, of Orchard Hill Church, will officiate.

All who knew Bob are encouraged to share memories and upload photos to his unique remembrance page at www.thompson-miller.com.

Please sign the guest book at www.butlereagle.com.