Robert J. Horning, Jr.

Robert J. Horning, Jr., of Mason, Ohio passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 15, 2021 at the age of 66.

Bob was born on September 2, 1954 in Akron, Ohio. His endless love for sports began at a very young age, snow skiing with his family and picking up tennis with his brother Chuck. Bob spent countless hours at the courts at Fairlawn Swim & Tennis and then Springside Athletic Club, and it didn't take long to discover a natural talent that would become a lifelong love. Bob had a very successful tennis career at The University of Akron, and continued his dedication and passion for the game for many years after. Bob later found a love (and hate) for golf, where he built many strong friendships over the years. There was never a sport Bob didn't gravitate towards - from Bocce ball and croquet with his wife, to fishing with his sons. Most recently, pickleball came as natural as tennis and quickly earned Bob's respect as a well-loved sport. All in all, if there was a ball involved, Bob most likely excelled at it.

On Saturday, March 23, 1985, Bob said "I Do" to a lifetime of happiness with his soulmate and best friend, Cheryl M. Rieth. Together, they built a home filled with love and laughter. Bob spent many years coaching his children's sports teams - soccer, baseball and softball, tennis, and lacrosse. According to Bob, a good coach simply needed to believe in his team and encourage them to have fun. Bob was always proud of his children and loved them dearly, but in the end it was his grandbabies that stole his heart completely. He lived for them every day, turning his original 3-month prognosis into 3 1/2 years of creating wonderful memories.

Bob will forever be cherished and missed by those who knew and loved him.

Bob was preceded in death by his father, Robert J. Horning, Sr.; his mother, Ruth (nee Heintzelman) Horning; and his sister-in-law, Polly Horning.

Bob is survived by his wife, Cheryl Horning; his daughter, Brittany (Andrew) Donovan; his sons, R.J. (Meredith) Horning, III and Ted Horning; his grandchildren, William and Henry Donovan & Robbie and Eva Horning; his brother, Chuck Horning; and many more loving family members and friends.

The Visitation will be held Saturday, June 26, 2021 from 2:00-3:00 PM at Mueller Funeral Home, 6791 Tylersville Road, Mason, Ohio 45040. A Celebration of Life Service will follow at 3:15 PM at the same location.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to the University of Cincinnati Cancer Center to support patient care and research (link to donation page will be posted soon). Bob spent his entire career working in clinical research and received excellent care at UC throughout his illness.

Mueller Funeral Home is honored to serve the Horning Family. 513-398-9100