Robert Charles Laumann

Robert Charles Laumann, a loving father, husband, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 9, 2024, just two days before his 93rd birthday. Born at home in Cincinnati, Ohio, on Veterans Day, 1931, to George and Clara Laumann, Bob grew up alongside his brother George and sister Marian. A proud graduate of St. Xavier High School in Cincinnati, Bob was an accomplished athlete, playing football and running track. He went on to earn a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Cincinnati, where he was a dedicated member of the Sigma Chi fraternity. 

After graduation, Bob proudly served as First Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force, and was part of Operation Red Wing, where he was involved in a series of nuclear test detonations. 

In 1957, Bob joined Technical Equipment as a Sales Engineer and quickly advanced to President and Co-Owner. Bob earned the respect and admiration of colleagues, employees, and industry peers alike. Many employees stayed with the company for years, motivated by his leadership. Bob was a passionate and devoted contributor to the machine tool industry. He served as President of the American Machine Tool Distributor Association, was a Distinguished Member of the Board of Directors of the Society of Manufacturing Engineers, and was a longtime member of the Oriental Order of Groundhogs. 

Bob was preceded in death by his high school sweetheart and wife of 38 years, Mary Anne (Brickweg) Laumann. He is survived by their children: Beth (Dave) Striebel, Rob (Connie) Laumann, and Barb (Pete) Haley. 

He is also survived by his loving wife, Jane (Draugelis) Laumann, with whom he shared 29 joyful years, and her children: Mary (Jim) Dusseau, Bill Draugelis, Kathy (Mike) Witt, Patty (John) Duerr, and Peter (Emily) Draugelis. 

Bob was the proud grandfather of 23 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren, who will forever treasure his infectious laugh, remarkable storytelling, and unwavering love. He was one of the rare grandpas who could comment on Instagram posts, text and FaceTime to catch up on updates, and even order his dinner on DoorDash. 

Bob loved to travel and did so extensively. His trips over the years sparked a deep love for cooking, which became a cherished hobby. His family and friends were the fortunate beneficiaries of his culinary creations. Bob was a die-hard Bengals fan and a charter member and season ticket holder since 1968. He was also an avid golfer and longtime member of Sycamore Creek Country Club. 

Bob’s life was a testament to the power of hard work, love, and faith and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him. 

A visitation will be held from 10:00-11:00 AM on Thursday, December 12, 2024, at the Church of Incarnation, 7415 Far Hills Ave., Centerville, OH 45459, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Ohio's Hospice, which can be made at www.ohioshospice.org/give/