Rev. Robert "Bob" Frank Matthias

The Rev. Robert Frank “Bob” Matthias

The Rev. Robert Frank “Bob” Matthias, 91, of Swarthmore, PA, died September 10, 2025. The son of the late Frank and Maude Matthias, Bob was born in Philadelphia on December 2, 1933. He was a graduate of Upper Darby High School (1951), Gettysburg College (1955), and the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg (1961). He worked as an auditor and also served as a pilot in the U.S. Air Force prior to attending seminary.

He was ordained a pastor in the United Lutheran Church in America in 1961 and served parishes in Waynesboro and Altoona, PA (1961-1967), before being called to the Commission on Youth Ministry (1967-1972) and then as Coordinator for Youth Ministry in the Division for Parish Services of the LCA (1972-1987). He served as pastor of Messiah, Harrisburg (1987-1995), St. John, Pottstown (interim, 1995-1996), Redeemer, East Falls (interim, 1996), and as Assistant to the Bishop of the S.E. Pa. Synod (1997- 1998). Upon his retirement he served as interim pastor for four congregations in Rhode Island and Massachusetts (1999-2007).

He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Dorothy S. “Dody” (Kulman) Matthias, a daughter Karen (Wayne) Matthias-Long, sons Mark (Helen) Matthias, and Paul (Laura) Matthias, and by 8 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a brother, Donald.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in his name to Bread for the World (bread.org).

A Celebration of Life will be held at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Wallingford, PA, on September 27, 2025, at 2:00 pm.