Robert E. Gompf

funeral director, founder and past owner, Gompf Funeral Service, Cardington, Ohio, as well as father of Gene Gompf; father-in-law of LeAnne Gompf; and grandfather of Michalene, Gregory and Geoffrey Gompf, all funeral directors, died May 13, 2025, at age 99.

Gompf served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He became a licensed funeral director after graduating from the Cleveland College of Mortuary Science. Beginning his career with Shaw-Davis Funeral Home in Columbus, Ohio, he devoted 76 years to funeral service. He later worked at Curl Funeral Home in Cardington, Ohio, for 36 years.

Two significant events marked a turning point in Gompf’s career: the passing of longtime funeral home owner Marjorie Curl and the tornado that destroyed Curl Funeral Home. In response, Gompf and his wife opened Gompf Funeral Service in their own home. They later built a facility, which continues to operate.

Gompf was active in numerous organizations. He was a proud 32nd Degree Mason and member of Masonic Lodge #384 in Cardington and, later, Masonic Lodge #206 in Mount Gilead. Additionally, he was a member of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, Valley of Columbus; Aladdin Shrine Temple of Columbus; and Cardington Community Methodist Church. He also was a longtime member of the Cardington Rotary Club, from which he received the Paul Harris Award. Gompf was a devoted 76-year member of the Jenkins Vaughan Post 97 of the American Legion. He served on the Farmers’ Citizen Bank board of trustees and was a founding board member of the Morrow County MMRD. He also was a member of the Cardington Community Improvement Corporation.

Gompf is survived by son Gene, daughter Julie, eight grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and close friend Betty Newcomer.