Robert F. Phillips, age 95, died the morning of August 31, 2022, of natural causes, at the Grove at New Wilmington. Born December 9, 1926, in Butler, PA he later graduated from Butler High School where he participated in a variety of sports and became interested in coaching. After serving in the Army at the end of World War II as an intelligence operative stationed in Germany, he matriculated to Springfield College in Massachusetts where he majored in physical education and sports management. Bob spent his working years as the activities manager at YMCAs in Punxsutawney and New Castle where he organized and coached swimming, volleyball, basketball and an assortment of other sports and activities in high school and senior age groups. "Variety is the spice of life" was his favorite saying. In retirement in New Wilmington, he became a biking aficionado as he navigated bike trails across the country with youth groups, YMCA members and local club members. These bikers often purchased their equipment at a bike store he owned in Sharon. In his later years, Bob walked his two black labs across town and through Westminster College. Staying up to date on current events, a history buff and book collector, he often "held court" uptown and was quick to offer counsel to those seeking advice on specific topics or life in general. Bob leaves his former landlord and best friend, Jeff Jones and all those, young and old, who benefited from his coaching expertise, worldly knowledge and good humor. R.I.P. coach – see you on the eternal bike path. A Memorial Service will be held on Sat. Oct. 8th at 11:00 a.m. at New Wilmington United Methodist Church. Arrangements have been entrusted to the R. Cunningham Funeral Home and Crematory of New Castle. Memorial contributions may be offered in his name to the Lawrence County Humane Society, PO Box 62, New Castle, PA 16103 or online at www.lawrencecountyhumane.com