Robert A. Ortner, of New London, Ohio, died on November 23, 2024, at Cleveland Clinic-Hillcrest Hospital. He was 76 years old.  Born on July 11, 1948, in Norwalk, Ohio, to the late Ferdinand "Ferd" and Jane (Becker) Ortner, he was a 1966 New London High School graduate, the class President and Valedictorian.   Rob loved his classmates and truly enjoyed their reunions, serving as reunion committee chair and treasurer.

Rob was an entrepreneur and a problem solver.  Upon graduation from University of Cincinnati, he assumed his father's business, Ortner Insulating. Rob also worked with Ferd on the farm and took over the operation in the early 80's.  In 1983 he joined Chester's Tax Service in Wakeman.  He never retired because he truly enjoyed seeing his clients every year.

Rob served his community in many ways.  He was a member of the New London Ruritan for many years.  He also was the secretary of the New London Township Zoning Commission since 1982.

Witty and loving, Rob was a loyal friend, who was always ethical and resourceful.  He loved fall colors, sunrises and sunsets, and photographing nature.

He enjoyed spirited driving, car shows, auto races, and was a 45 year member of the Alfa Romeo Owners Club.

Rob is survived by his loving soulmate of 14 years, Jane Magargee; son, Aaron (Lori) Ortner of Norwalk; stepson, Jarrod (Sarah) Kipp of Norwalk; stepdaughter, Natalie (Rick) Bowers of New London and Jessica (Dan Whitaker) Kipp of New London; sister, Carol (David) Stoepker of Portage, Michigan; 11 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews, and many cousins.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his late wife, Lea Ortner, and brother, James Ortner.

Friends and family are invited to Rob's visitation on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at Eastman Funeral Home, 200 W. Main St., New London, beginning at 11 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 1 p.m. with burial to follow in Wakeman Cemetery, (5429 State Route, 303).  Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice but anything related to the benefit of children, Native Americans, or our military would have delighted Rob.  Online expressions of sympathy may be made by visiting: www.eastmanfuneralhome.com