Br. Robert J. Kinzler

Br. Robert J. Kinzler, F.S.C., age 70, passed away suddenly on November 28, 2025. Son of the late Robert L. and Margaret (nee Bilinski) Kinzler. Loving brother of Susan Kinzler of Pittsburgh, PA.

Brother Bob was a graduate of Central Catholic High School in Pittsburgh. He received a Master's in Social Work from the University of Pittsburgh. Brother Bob faithfully served the Christian Brothers for 50 years with the last 20 being at La Salle University. Prior to his service at La Salle, he served as director of Saint Gabriel's System, a multi-service agency for the rehabilitation of adjudicated delinquent youth, most of whom are from the city of Philadelphia. In 2001, Cardinal Bevilacqua appointed him, as the Director of the Office for Community Development. Brother Bob said, "I believe that Cardinal Bevilacqua is reaffirming in a very concrete way the role of the Church as the presence of Christ in the midst of our city. I feel very honored that the Cardinal has asked me to be a part of this significant event in the life of the Church and the City of Philadelphia."

At La Salle University, Brother Bob’s legacy was in service of others. He began his career at La Salle in 2005 as Director of University Ministry and Service and was serving as Assistant Vice President for Student Advocacy and Support at the time of his passing. He consistently advocated for students, always looking out for their greater good. Most recently, he chaired the Students of Concern team with great pride and distinction, always ensuring that those who needed additional support, resources or just someone to listen had that and a powerful advocate on their side.

Relatives and friends are invited to his visitation on Wednesday December 10th from 3:00pm to 5:50pm at De La Salle Chapel on the campus of La Salle University, 1900 W. Olney Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19141. Funeral Mass 6:00pm. Rite of Committal and Final Commendation on Thursday, December 11 at 11:30 am at La Salle Hall Chapel, 6001 Ammendale Road, Beltsville, MD 20705. Following the service, Inurnment at De La Salle Cemetery, Beltsville, MD. Reception to follow back at La Salle Hall.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations in honor of Brother Bob to La Salle University to support the Anna “Nush” Allen Student Emergency Fund. Gifts can be made online at www.lasalle.edu/give or sent to University Advancement, 1900 W. Olney Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19141.

Eternal rest grant unto Brother Robert, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.

May his soul and all the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

St. John Baptist de La Salle, Pray for Us. Live Jesus in our Hearts, forever.

BROTHER ROBERT J. KINZLER FSC

1955 – 2025

Born Robert Joseph Kinzler in Pittsburg PA -- 10 July 1955

Died at La Salle University in Philadelphia PA – 28 November 2025

Received the Religious Habit at La Salle College in Philadelphia PA – 3 August 1975

Entered the Skaneateles NY Novitiate – 1 July 1979

Pronounced Perpetual Vows at Saint Gabriel’s Hall in Audubon PA – 12 May 1984

ASSIGNMENTS

1975–1977 Philadelphia PA Jeremy House (scholasticate)

1977–1979 Audubon PA Saint Gabriel’s Hall

1979–1980 Skaneateles NY Novitiate

1980–1984 Audubon PA Saint Gabriel’s Hall

1984–1986 Pittsburgh PA University of Pittsburgh (graduate studies)

1986–1989 Philadelphia PA De La Salle in Towne

1989–2001 Philadelphia PA Saint Gabriel’s System (Executive Director)

2001–2002 Philadelphia PA Archdiocese of Philadelphia

(Director, Archdiocesan Community Development)

2002–2003 Rome IT CIL (renewal/sabbatical)

2003–2005 Philadelphia PA Temple University (graduate studies)

2005–2025 Philadelphia PA La Salle University

The District of Eastern North America remembers Brother Robert with memorial liturgies according to the tradition of the Institute. Through their prayers, communities and individuals entrust Brother to God’s loving care.

† May he rest in peace. †