Robert Fredrick “Bob” Hart, 60, of Scottsdale, Arizona, died peacefully on Feb. 1, 2026 in the company of his family. He approached his nearly six-year battle with cancer with fearlessness, grace and strength, inspiring many. He made friends easily and was known for his infectious laugh, warmth, and generosity. He cared deeply for underdogs and those in need and gave freely of his time and support.
Born on Oct. 9, 1965, to Leo J. Hart and Mary V. Hart, he grew up in Oak Park, one of eight siblings in a large extended family. He graduated from Oak Park and River Forest High School in 1983, where he excelled in football, basketball, and track, and later earned a business degree from Arizona State University.
He began working at a young age on paper routes, painting crews, and retail staff. He went on to build a successful, self-made career in sales across print, retail displays, and medical equipment.
Bob’s most important role was as a father, son, brother, and uncle. He loved his four children –– above all else and was deeply devoted to his family throughout his life.
He is survived by his children, Jacqueline, Sean, Georgia, and Madeleine and their mother, Stephanie Sammon; his mother, Mary V. Hart; his uncles Daniel J. Dowd and John M. Dowd; his siblings, Paul (Chris) Hart, Tom (Amy) Hart, Molly (Pat) Corrigan, Marty (K-leen) Hart, Meg (Marty) White, Amy (Jon) Tomaso, and Janet (Jim) Carson; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Leo J. Hart, and several grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins.
The Hart family is especially grateful that Bob found love, peace and unconditional support from Sheila Merrell. Sheila’s care of and devotion to Bob were incomparable.
Memorial services in Phoenix are pending. A memorial Mass will be held at St. Bernardine Church, Forest Park, on Saturday, Feb. 14 at 10 a.m. Donations in Bob’s name may be made to Hospice of the Valley or Oak Park Youth Baseball and Softball.
