Robert C. Gorner

Robert C. Gorner, 94, of Lancaster, passed away peacefully at home on May 25, 2026. Born in Lancaster on July 29, 1931, he was the loving husband of Shirley Ann (Lutz) Gorner, with whom he shared 70 years of marriage.

Bob graduated from McCaskey High School in 1949 and proudly served as an Infantry Officer during the Korean War. Following his military service, he earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Penn State University. He later served as a faculty member in the School of Engineering Mechanics while contributing to a confidential NASA-related project that supported the early U.S. space program in the late 1950s.

In 1959, Bob began his career with Armstrong World Industries, where he held numerous engineering and management positions. In 1969, he became the first Plant Engineering Manager of the newly opened Marietta Ceiling Plant. He retired in 1992 as General Manager of Fluids Engineering at the Innovation Center.

Bob was a licensed pilot, an avid golfer, and a colorful storyteller. He was also a devoted member of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, served on the Board of Directors for Meals on Wheels of Lancaster, and was a past president of S.C.O.R.E.

Above all else, Bob was a proud and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. In addition to his wife, Shirley, he is survived by his children: Diane (Keith) McGuigan, Brian (Sarah) Gorner, David Gorner, and Joann (Alwin) Philippa; his grandchildren: Shaun (Lauren), Kyle (Rachel), Ian, Jillian, Reed, and Wyatt; and his great-grandchildren: Landon, Brody, Austin, Hudson, Jensen, and Emma.

Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 10 Delp Rd, Lancaster, PA 17601. A visitation will be held from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by the memorial service at 11:00 a.m. Private interment at Conestoga Memorial Park will be held at the convenience of the family.