Robert George Exler

   Robert George Exler, 77, of Hertford, NC, passed away Wednesday, September 20, 2023 with his loving family by his side.

   Mr. Exler was born in Dearborn, MI on June 5, 1946 and was the son of the late George William Exler and Eleanor Pisaneschi Exler. The family moved to Tennessee and eventually settled in Pittsburgh, PA. His formative years were spent in Crafton, outside of Pittsburgh, and as a youth attended Saint Phillips and Bishop Canevin schools, and graduated from Langley High School. While at Canevin, he began a stellar football career as a halfback, and to this day still holds the record for the most touchdowns at two of the local fields. After he graduated from Langley High School he attended Adams State University in Colorado. Still excelling on the football field, he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Health and Physical Education and Driver’s Education, and later with a master’s degree in Health and Physical Education Resources.

   After his completion of his bachelor’s degree from Adams State University he was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers. Upon his release from professional football he married his college sweetheart, Susan Giordano, and they both returned to Adams State to complete their master’s degrees. He was drafted into the United States Army and served in the Military Police at the stockade in Colorado Springs, CO. Having received an honorable discharge from the Army, he and his wife moved to New Jersey. This was the start of a long career as an educator in which he taught health, physical education and driver education and also coached football, basketball, track and cross country in West New York and Jackson Township, NJ.

   In 2005 he and his wife retired and moved to North Carolina. Their new home, with an incredible view of the Albemarle Sound was situated on the 18th hole of the golf course. Together they shared their home with their beloved golden retrievers, Rudy and Cody. While in Hertford, Robert’s talents bloomed. He discovered a new talent of carving wood duck decoys and continued his passion for stained glass creations. His stained glass artwork enhances and accentuates the natural beauty of their home. Some of his stained glass military designs are on display at the Atlantic County Veteran’s Museum in Mays Landing, NJ.

  Surviving is his loving wife of 50 years, Susan Giordano Exler; his sister, E. Patricia Jenkins (Evan); and his brother, Timothy W. Exler (Elizabeth). Also surviving are his eight nieces and nephews who dearly loved him and will miss his playful spirit.

   In accordance with his wishes, no services are planned. Please help celebrate Robert’s life by hugging a loved one because tomorrow everything could change.

   Memorial contributions may be made to Disabled American Veterans, online at www.ihelpveterans.org, or to the SPCA of Northeastern NC, 102 Enterprise Drive, Elizabeth City, NC 27909, online at www.spcaofnenc.org.

   Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral and Cremation Providers, 1125 Harvey Point Road, Hertford, NC, is assisting the family with arrangements, and online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com.