Robert J. Svehla

Robert J. Svehla – 61, of North Reading and formerly of Kentucky, died unexpectedly at his work on Monday, June 15, 2020.

Born in Lexington, KY on April 17, 1959, he was the son of the late William and Patricia (Sweeney) Svehla.

Rob was a graduate of North Reading High School, Class of 1977. He later attended the University of Kentucky and the University of Lowell.

He worked for the U.S. Postal Service in North Reading as a Mail Handler for 35+ years. He was a resident of North Reading for the past 49 years and was a member of St. Theresa’s Church.

Rob was a loving brother and uncle, who was up for anything and always making everyone laugh. When his nieces were younger, he was always playing sports with them in the yard or with beanie babies on the living room floor. His smile and red hair lit up a room and his silly jokes will be sorely missed.

Rob loved to cook and experiment with fresh ingredients. He could often be found watching Kentucky basketball games and cheering loudly for the Wildcats. He enjoyed listening to Jimmy Buffet and traveling to Key West with his brother. He loved to watch golf and would practice his swing often.

Family members include his loving sister, Carol A. Morrissey and her husband Phil; brothers, Michael Stanley Svehla and the late Richard William Svehla; nieces, Brenna and Rachel Morrissey.

In light of the current events, a memorial service for Rob will be held at a later date. Memorial donations may be made in Rob’s name to the American Heart Association, 300 5^th Ave., Suite 6, Waltham, MA 02451. Arrangements are by the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading. www.croswellfuneralhome.com

15 thoughts on “Robert J. Svehla”

So sorry for your loss, Rob was such a nice guy and he will be missed by all.

So sorry to see the loss of a great member of NRHS ’77

Rob was one if the nicest and even keeled people I ever knew. Great ball player that always kept his ego in check. His dry wit was fantastic.
He was famous for impersonating shots and dribbling techniques of NBA players. He could do Jo Jo White’s jumper better than Jo Jo. Only Pistol Pete could do Pistol Pete as well as Rob. I will never forget Rob. Never forget his laid back style which also made everyone pay attention when he spoke up and made a point. See you on the otherside brother.

Carol says:

June 22, 2020 at 3:26 pm

Thank you for the stories David. They brought a smile to my face. You probably knew this but Rob used to call you ‘the guy with two first names’.
~Carol

I remember Rob as a kind soul. I’m addened by the news, and send condolences to his famiky and friends.

Rob was a great person and excellent athlete. Graduated alongside of him. Prayers to the family

Rob was a great guy I enjoyed working with him at the P.O.

So sorry for your loss. Worked with Rob at the PO
A nice man. He will be missed. Rest In Peace Rob
❤️❤️

My sincere sympathies to the Svehla Family. Rest In Peace Brother.

So sorry for your loss

I worked with Rob for many years at the USPS in North Reading. He was a real gentleman, a quiet, easy going person, who loved sports and NE teams. It was my pleasure to work with, and get to know Rob. He will be deeply missed. RIP Rob

Such good memories with Rob. One was Rob teaching me to play basketball in front of his house. He dribbled between my legs and scored before I knew what happened. His smile said sorry, but this is how they did it in Kentucky. His love, skill and enthusiasm for the game was inspiring. Another was our last home game at NRHS. My father came to a game for the first time. Rob standing behind me in the lay-up line said, “hey isn’t that your dad”. That night, Rob only looked to pass me the ball, never taking a shot, because he knew it was important to me. Great friend and teammate. RIP Rob.