It is with great sadness to inform you of the passing of Philadelphia PGA Professional Robert Francis Pfister. “Bob”, age 86, of Wilmington, Delaware, passed away on May 12, 2026 surrounded by his wife and daughter.

He was born in Orchard Park, Buffalo, NY to Cecelia & Edward Pfister. Bob attended Bishop Timon High School and upon graduation in 1958 he joined the Navy. He served as 2nd class signalman on the USS Wasp Aircraft Carrier. After his honorable discharge in 1962, he entered the golf business. He spent the first 5 years at Saucon Valley CC in Bethlehem, PA in the summer. In the winter, he was at the Cotton Bay Club in Rock Sound, Eleuthera, Bahamas. Most notably, he spent 28 years serving as Head Golf Professional at Llanerch CC in Havertown, PA. Bob spent the final chapter of his work life helping the Golf Course at Glen Mills get established and grow into a top-rated public facility.

Bob’s passion was always golf. He enjoyed coaching the men’s golf team at St. Joseph University from 1982 to 1985. He excelled as a senior golfer, qualifying twice for the US Senior Open in 1990 and 1994. He won the Philadelphia Section Senior Championship in 1993 and 1996.

He also loved reading, gardening, fishing, and hunting. His caring nature and gentle kindness are what people will remember most about Bob.

Bob was preceded in death by his mother, father and brother Jim. He is survived by his wife, Trudy, his daughters Barbara Ann (Kevin), Beth Ann (Matthew), Sophie and Jessica; four grandchildren and one great grandchild. He is also survived by his siblings Ed, Jake, Sue and Margaret (Dick); and many nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to a Mass of Christian Burial at St. John the Beloved Roman Catholic Church, 907 Milltown Road, Wilmington, DE 19808 on Tuesday, June 30th, 2026, at 11:30am with visitation available prior to Mass from 10:00am until 11:30am.

We are so grateful for having Delaware Hospice’s wonderful team watching over Bob these last few months of his life. In lieu of flowers please donate to Delaware Hospice, 630 Churchman’s Road, Suite 200 Newark, DE 19702 (302-478-5707)

About the Philadelphia PGA Section
The Philadelphia PGA Section, covering eastern Pennsylvania, southern New Jersey and Delaware, is one of 41 geographical managing entities of the PGA of America. This Section manages nearly 900 PGA of America Members and Associates who are employed at over 300 golf facilities in our region.

Contact: Matt Frey, PGA, Director of Operations, mfrey@pgahq.com