Robert A. Erb

Born: January 30, 1932 At home with the Lord: June 12, 2020 Robert A. Erb was born in Ridley Park, PA, the son of John Walter Erb and Roma Chapman Erb. He is survived by his dear wife, Doretta Louise Barker Erb; and his children: Doretta Erb Edinger (married to Robert) and Carolyn Joy Erb McCann (married to Robert). Bob is also survived by three grandchildren; Thomas Scott Edinger (and wife, Stephanie), Douglas Robert Edinger, and Jenna Lynn Edinger Melzi (and husband, Justin); and three great-grandchildren: Olivia Anne and Hailey Brooke Edinger, and Brynn Elise Melzi. He is also survived by his brother, John W. Erb., Jr. Bob lived in Elizabeth, NJ for seven years, but-with his mother and brother-followed his Army officer father around the country during World War II, attending seven different schools. In 1949, he graduated from Sharon Hill High School. He subsequently earned degrees from Penn (B.S.), Drexel (M.S.) and Temple (Ph.D., physical chemistry major). He met Doretta in 1950, and they were married June 27, 1953 upon his graduation from Penn. They have lived in Valley Forge since 1958. Bob had a 39-year career at Franklin Research Center, doing research and development by contract with government and industry, including being awarded 20 U.S. patents. When FRC was closed, Bob became an independent scientific consultant from 1993 to 2020, and served as Technical Director of Doretta's SiliClone Studio. His activities included fabricating custom silicone prostheses and training others in the field, and he made presentations in many conferences and journals. He is the author of Handbook for Realistic Silicone Prostheses. He was active at Valley Forge United Methodist Church, teaching adult Sunday school and summertime Bible studies, and singing in the choir. He also led Bible studies at FRC and in the neighborhood. His book, Great Verses from the Bible with Comments, reflects his love for his Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ and for the Word of God. He enjoyed reading, travel, sculpture, oil and silicone painting, and playing his organ and keyboard. A Memorial service will be held at Valley Forge UMC, at the convenience of the family.