Robert L. "Bob" Tolloty

Robert Lewis “Bob” Tolloty, 96, of New Philadelphia, died Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at Park Village Southside following a period of declining health.

Born in Uhrichsville on May 26, 1930, Bob was the son of the late Lewis J. and Anna D. (Corredo) Tolloty. He was a 1948 graduate of the former Uhrichsville High School.

Bob honorably served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War, where he served on the front lines and earned the Bronze Star Medal.

Following his military service, Bob joined his father in the family business, Square Deal Auto Parts, which he later owned and operated with his brother, Gene. In 1953, Bob and Gene built Midvale Speedway. The brothers owned and operated the racetrack for more than four decades before selling it in 1999.

On July 30, 1955, Bob married Jeannine I. (Reed) Tolloty, who preceded him in death.

Bob was a man of many names: Bobby T, Tulio, Lonnie, and Papa Keno to name a few. He was a social person with many friends and interests, including collecting coins and playing Keno. He always had a magic trick up his sleeve and was a natural charmer. Bob was known for setting his own style rather than following trends, and was rarely seen without one of his signature hats. He enjoyed playing games with his grandchildren and great grandchildren and delighted in letting them win.

He is survived by his daughter, Andrea (Art) Soma of Pickerington, and their children, Eric (Loriana) Soma and Lindsay (Dustin) Drerup; his daughter, Dana (Harry) Mitzo of Lorain, and their daughter, Christina (Marco) Iafano; his son, Brian Tolloty and Jessica Tolloty of Granville, and their daughter, Julia Tolloty; four great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, and close friends.

In addition to his parents and wife, Bob was preceded in death by his beloved grandson, Tristan Tolloty, in 2023; his brother, Gene Tolloty; and his sister, Gloria Plotts.

The family will receive guests during a memorial visitation on Saturday, September 5, 2026, from 11 a.m. to noon in the Geib Funeral Center, 5600 N. Wooster Ave., Dover. A Memorial Service will begin at noon.

A private burial of Bob’s cremated remains will take place at Evergreen Burial Park at a later date.