Robert Rahr
| Robert "Robb" Phillip Rahr Jr. | |
| Personal Details | |
| Birth: | August 6, 1969 Steubenville, Ohio |
| Death: | November 25, 2022 (aged 53) Trinity Medical Center, Steubenville, OH |
| Education: | Bachelor of Arts from West Liberty State University |
| Military: | United States Army, Staff Sergeant, Military Police Canine Handler |
| Occupation: | K9 transporter (K2 Solutions), Security Guard (G4S/Allied Services), Veterans Homeless Shelter Manager |
| Residence: | Bethany, West Virginia |
| Party: | Libertarian Party |
Robert "Robb" Phillip Rahr Jr. (August 6, 1969 - November 25, 2022) was a dedicated libertarian from Bethany, West Virginia. He was born in Steubenville, Ohio, and throughout his life, exhibited an unwavering commitment to service, family, and community. Rahr was always ready to discuss libertarian and liberty issues. He volunteered on Larry Sharpe’s 2022 NY Gubernatorial campaign.
Early Life
Robert Phillip Rahr Jr., commonly known as Robb, was born to parents Robert P. Rahr Sr. and his wife, Barbara of Nottingham Twp, PA, and Christina (Luoto) Wells and her husband, Jack of Wellsburg, WV. His early life was marked by the close ties he shared with his family, which included three sisters: Jill Christina Lawson, Julie Rahr, and Courtney Falce.
Military Service
Rahr enlisted in the United States Army and served for 20 years, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. He specialized as a Military Police Canine Handler and was deployed in imminent danger areas, including Afghanistan and Korea. Additionally, Rahr served in four other countries, strengthening international relationships and ensuring the security of his fellow servicemen and women.
Throughout his military tenure, Rahr was awarded a slew of recognitions, among them the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Three Campaign Stars, Army Commendation Medal 4th award, and the Expert Marksmanship Badge with Pistol Bar. He built unforgettable bonds with several canine partners, notably Wanda and Falco, whom he considered not just partners but also family.
Education and Post-Military Career
After concluding his military service, Rahr pursued higher education and graduated from West Liberty State University with a Bachelor of Arts. He transitioned to civilian life, working briefly for K2 Solutions as a K9 transporter and later for G4S as a security guard. His tenure at G4S continued after its acquisition by Allied Services.
Rahr played a pivotal role in establishing and managing the Veterans Homeless Shelter in Wheeling, WV, a testament to his ongoing dedication to fellow veterans.
Personal Life and Legacy
Known for his fervor for history, museums, and his penchant for collecting Marvel and DC items, Rahr had a multifaceted personality. He had a deep passion for guitars, music, and often embarked on beer tasting adventures with friends. He was a member of both the Libertarian Party and the Libertarian Party of West Virginia. Above all, family was Rahr's anchor. His devotion to his wife, children, and later, his grandchildren was unparalleled. He was known for his immense heart, generosity, and an endless supply of smiles, hugs, and humor.
Tragically, Rahr lost his wife, Penny Katherine (Carlisle) Rahr, after 26 years of marriage in January 2022. He was also engaged to Missy Richmond of Hurricane, WV, before his untimely passing.
Rahr's sudden death after a short battle with aggressive cancer has left a vacuum in the lives of many. His legacy, however, lives on in the countless lives he touched, both through his service and his immense capacity for love and care.