Robert Roy Gorman

Robert Roy Gorman of Florissant, MO, passed away Sunday, October 9, 2022, surrounded by his family in Suffolk, VA, at the age of 87. Loving husband of the late MaryLea R. Gorman; beloved son of the late Marvin D. and Flossie I. Gorman Sr; devoted father of the late Tim P. (Mary E.) Gorman, Kelly L (Chris E.) Gill, Michael S. Gorman, and Jennifer M. (the late William J. Six) Gorman; cherished grandfather of Robert Gorman, Tim Gorman II, Brian (Robin Perry-Gill) Gill, Ashley (Andrew) Smith, and Cameron Six; treasured great-grandfather of Bryce Perry, Halle Smith, Maci Smith, and Fallyn Smith; loving uncle to numerous nieces and nephews. Robert is also preceded in death by three sisters and one brother. 

 

Robert (Dad) learned the value of hard work early in his life through delivering the local paper. As he grew he began working with Marvin, his father, in the concrete industry. It was during these early days where his boss encouraged him to attend college, followed by entering the Aeronautical Engineering field at McDonnell Aircraft Corporation. Dad stepped out of his career and served honorably in the United States Army and upon return to McDonnell was assigned to the F-4 design project. This allowed him great knowledge and experience propelling his career forward. 

 

Shortly after returning from the Army and returning to his career he met the love of his life, MaryLea (mom). The values he learned in his early years were now transferred and applied to his new and growing family. Hard work and family were always his highest priorities. Dad transferred out of then McDonnell Douglas and entered the job-shopper world so he could provide a better lifestyle for those he loved dearly. His career took him to Washington (Boeing), Texas (General Dynamics, Bell Helicopter), Illinois (Proctor and Gamble), and back to St. Louis (St. Louis Car Co, McDonnell, McDonnell Douglas, and Boeing). 

 

Some of Dad’s greatest career accomplishments include: His work on the F-4 project; Wing design for DC-10; F-101 project and early use of Titanium in aircraft deign; Developing a containment system to prevent explosions at a plant in Illinois; and his design of an 80 foot street car (some still in use) for NYC Subway on one continuous 32 foot mylar drawing. As great as these accomplishments were, Dad would tell you his greatest accomplishments reside within his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

 

Dad, you were a son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and great friend to many. Your presence will be greatly missed and always cherished and treasured in the hearts of all who had the pleasure of knowing you.