Robert S. Peffle

Robert Stanley Peffle, affectionately known as "Bob" or "Peff," passed away on January 4, 2025, in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, at the age of 48. Born on April 4, 1976, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Bob lived a life defined by his dedication to family, education, and his enduring passion for soccer.

A proud alumnus of LaSalle College High School’s Class of 1994, Bob was a standout athlete who played a pivotal role in leading his soccer team to victory in the school’s first ever Philadelphia Catholic League Championship. He continued his academic and athletic journey at Drexel University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Political Science while playing collegiate soccer for four years. Later, he pursued his teaching certification in Physical Education at Eastern University.

Bob’s career as an educator and coach spanned more than two decades. He began teaching Health and Physical Education at West Philadelphia High School, where he also coached baseball and track and field for seven years. His “Speedboys” at West Philadelphia High School were like his second family, and the impact he had on his athletes and students there was immeasurable. He later taught at Fels High School for two years before finishing his career in Philadelphia teaching P.E at T.M. Pierce Elementary School. Bob then made the decision to take a part-time job at Holy Family School in Phoenixville, so he could spend more time with and care for his three little girls. Over nine years at Holy Family, Bob became a beloved teacher of Physical Education. Beyond the classroom, one of his most cherished roles was coaching soccer alongside his father at LaSalle College High School for 15 years. Together, they guided the team to multiple Philadelphia Catholic League Championships.

Bob’s passions extended far beyond teaching and coaching. A lifelong soccer fan, he was a devoted Arsenal supporter or “Gooner” and a Founding Member of the Philadelphia Union. 

Bob loved history. His vast knowledge of historical events always lent itself to lively conversations about current political issues. He always knew how to put things into perspective and challenge people’s thinking on world events.

Bob was a jam band enthusiast and before having a family, some of his fondest memories were traveling the country with friends to see Phish and The Grateful Dead.

He was an avid Star Wars fan. One of his favorite hobbies was designing and painting Star Wars Micro Galaxy figurines and dioramas. He was also the “Han” to Ali’s “Leia”.

In 2007, Bob married Ali, with whom he built a warm and loving home centered around their three daughters: Bea, Abby, and Lizzie. A devoted husband and father, Bob found immense joy in supporting and nurturing his family. His daughters were the light of his life and the source of his greatest pride. He was the ultimate “Girl Dad” who never denied a request from the girls to paint his nails or do his makeup. The house was always filled with laughter and giggles because of Bob’s sense of humor and ability to make us laugh whenever life got challenging.

Known for his compassion and strong principles, Bob brought joy to those fortunate enough to know him. His memory will forever be cherished by all whose lives he touched.

He is survived by his wife Allison (Rossi), his three daughters: Beatrice, Abigail, and Elizabeth. He is also survived by his parents Robert W. and Michele Peffle, his brother Michael and sister-in-law Yelena and three nieces-Hannah, Naomi, and Leia, and his mother-in-law Becky Rossi. He is also survived by his Aunt Margaret Conn (Peffle) and her husband Curtis and cousins.

One of the songs Bob always used to play when he knew he was going to have daughters was “I Will Take You Home”:

“Ain't no fog that's thick enough to hide you

Your daddy's gonna be right here beside you

If your fears should start to get inside you.

I will take you home.”

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their souls and all the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

St. John Baptist de La Salle…Pray for us.

Live Jesus in our hearts…Forever!

Relatives and friends are invited to his Funeral Mass in St. Ann Chapel, 604 S. Main Street, Phoenixville, PA on Monday, January 13, 2025 at 11:00 am.

Burial will follow in St. Ann Cemetery.

A visitation will be held in the Chapel on Monday from 9:30 to 10:45 am.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be given to Phoenixville Area Community Services (PACS), 101 Buchanan Street, Phoenixville, PA 19460 or Holy Family School, 221 Third Avenue, Phoenixville, PA 19460.