Robert Thomas DeHoff's Obituary
Robert Thomas DeHoff, age 91, passed away on January 7, 2026, in Gainesville, Florida.
Bob was born in Sharon, Pennsylvania, to George L. DeHoff and Zita M. DeHoff, who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Donald and Richard DeHoff.
He was the beloved husband of Marjorie DeHoff, with whom he shared 69 years of marriage, and a devoted father to his son, Robert T. DeHoff II and his wife Rhonda, and his daughter, Susan L. Newkumet and her husband Jack. He was a proud grandfather to Harry and Zack Newkumet, who brought him great joy. He also had numerous nieces and nephews who he doted on. Bob was deeply loved by his family and will be remembered for his steadfast presence, intellect, and quiet dedication to those he cared for.
Bob earned his PhD from Carnegie Mellon University and spent his professional life as a Professor at the University of Florida, where he was a founding member of the Materials Science and Engineering Department in the College of Engineering. Over the course of his distinguished career, he authored countless scholarly papers and wrote the first and second editions of the textbook Thermodynamics in Materials Science, a seminal work that educated generations of students and remains influential in the field.
Above all, Bob was a man who valued family, learning, and service. He will be remembered as a loving husband, a thoughtful father and grandfather, and a respected educator whose legacy lives on through his family and the many students and colleagues he influenced throughout his career.
A Memorial Service will be held at Trinity United Methodist Church Chapel 4000 NW 53rd Ave, Gainesville, Florida 32653 on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. with Reverend Steve Price officiating. A reception will follow in the Atrium.
What’s your fondest memory of Robert?
What’s a lesson you learned from Robert?
Share a story where Robert's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Robert you’ll never forget.
How did Robert make you smile?