It is with broken hearts that Footlighters announces the sudden passing of one of our longtime family members, the wonderful Robert Weidle. Anyone who met him loved Robert. With his distinctive laugh and gentle demeanor, he had an inherent way of connecting with people instantly. Robert wore many hats at Footlighters: He was a gifted performer, director, producer, board member, and box office manager. And while he called Footlighters home, he shared his talents with countless other groups in the area, such as Cincinnati Music Theatre, Mariemont Players, The Drama Workshop, Brieabi Productions, and Beechmont Players—just to name a few. He was actively involved with ACT Cincinnati as an adjudicator and ACT representative, as well as OCTA as a board member, regional rep, and OCTAFest chairperson. And, of course, with his big infectious smile and jovial disposition, he was known to the entire Tri-State area as Cincinnati’s Santa Claus. In fact, he was THE Santa Claus for an entire generation of boys and girls, many of whom brought their own children to visit with him at the zoo. But his favorite roles were that of partner to David, father to Rob and Cassidy, and grandfather to Mia and Keito. His unexpected passing leaves a hole in our organization as big as his generous and kind heart. We will miss him terribly. 

​

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, from 4:00 PM until time of service at 7:00 PM at E.C. Nurre Funeral Home, 177 W. Main St., Amelia OH 45102. 

​

​

For those interested in assisting the family with funeral and burial costs, consider making a donation here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/honoring-robert-weidle-a-legacy-of-love