April 8, 1941 – January 3, 2017
Robert George (Bob) Kiefer was born in Akron, Ohio, on April 8, 1941, to Mary Louise (Cobb) Kiefer and Robert Clint Kiefer. Growing up in Akron, Bob demonstrated a keen sense of curiosity and a deep appreciation for community. He graduated from Kenmore High School in 1959, where he was known for his academic diligence and active participation in extracurricular activities, including the school’s drama club and student council.
After high school, Bob enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he was stationed in Germany. His time in the military was marked by a dedication to service and a strong sense of duty. He was honorably discharged in 1964, after which he returned to Ohio and pursued higher education at Akron University. While studying, Bob took up a job at Firestone Tire & Rubber, where he demonstrated a strong work ethic and a talent for teamwork and leadership.
Bob’s journey took a significant turn when he moved to Northern California. Here, he and his long-time friend Robert Cipriano embarked on an entrepreneurial venture in the restaurant business. Their restaurants quickly became known for their excellent service and community involvement, reflecting Bob’s natural ability to bring people together and create welcoming environments.
In mid-life, Bob experienced a profound spiritual calling that led him to Holy Apostles Seminary in Cromwell, Connecticut. Following this, he furthered his theological education at Saint Patrick’s Seminary in Menlo Park, California. On May 18, 1991, Bob was ordained a priest of the Diocese of San Jose. His ordination marked the beginning of a new chapter filled with dedication to spiritual leadership and community service.
Father Bob served in several parishes within the Diocese of San Jose, earning a reputation for his compassionate pastoral care and inspiring sermons. His most significant role was as Pastor at St. Frances Cabrini Church in San Jose, where he fostered a vibrant, welcoming parish community. His leadership and heartfelt approach to ministry left an indelible mark on the parishioners.
After retiring in 2011, Father Bob moved to Las Vegas, Nevada. Retirement did not slow him down; instead, he became even more active in his ministry. He committed himself to Guardian Angel Cathedral, where he was deeply involved in parish life. Additionally, he regularly helped with Mass and Confessions at numerous other parishes in the Las Vegas metropolitan area. Father Bob was known for his tireless dedication, making himself available whenever and wherever he was needed.
Father Bob’s personal ministry was characterized by his commitment to helping the homeless and advocating for Right to Life issues. His efforts in these areas were driven by a deep sense of compassion and a desire to serve the most vulnerable members of society. His work with the homeless included organizing food drives, providing spiritual support, and advocating for better social services.
Father Kiefer is survived by his daughter, Christa (Kiefer) Marlowe, and her husband Randy Marlowe of Pensacola, Florida. He took great pride in his grandchildren, Michael Hall and Lauren Hall, and cherished his time with several great-grandchildren. Family was of utmost importance to him, and he maintained close relationships with his siblings: his sister Karen (Kiefer) Smith and her husband Jim Smith of McDonough, Georgia, and his sister Ruth (Kiefer) Roach and her husband David Roach of Uniontown, Ohio. Father Bob also leaves behind numerous nephews and nieces, and many friends who considered him family.
Known for his joyful and generous spirit, Father Bob was a beacon of faith and kindness. His vibrant personality and unwavering dedication to others made him a beloved figure in every community he served. His legacy of compassion, faith, and service continues to inspire those who knew him.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Guardian Angel Cathedral in Las Vegas at 10:00 am on February 1. Burial will follow at Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Boulder City, Nevada. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at Saint Frances Cabrini Parish in San Jose on Friday, February 3, at 10:00 am.
Condolences may be sent to Father Kiefer’s sister, Karen Smith, at 2042 Reserve Pkwy, McDonough, GA 30253.
Catholic Holy Spirit Devotion to the Memory of Fr. Robert Kiefer
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Opening Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we gather in Your presence to remember and honor Your faithful servant, Fr. Robert Kiefer. We ask for the guidance and comfort of the Holy Spirit as we reflect on his life and legacy. May our hearts be filled with gratitude and peace as we commemorate his devoted service to You.
Scripture Reading:
John 14:26: “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.”
Reflection:
Fr. Robert Kiefer dedicated his life to serving God and the Church, embodying the fruits of the Holy Spirit in his ministry. His compassion, wisdom, and unwavering faith were a testament to the Holy Spirit’s presence within him. As we remember Fr. Robert, we are reminded of the Holy Spirit’s power to transform and inspire us to live lives of holiness and service.
Prayer to the Holy Spirit:
Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of Your faithful, and kindle in them the fire of Your love. We thank You for the life and ministry of Fr. Robert Kiefer, who faithfully followed Your guidance. May his memory inspire us to seek Your presence in our lives and to serve others with the same devotion and love that he demonstrated.
Litany of the Holy Spirit:
Lord, have mercy.
Christ, have mercy.
Lord, have mercy.
Holy Spirit, hear us.
Holy Spirit, graciously hear us.
God the Father of Heaven, have mercy on us.
God the Son, Redeemer of the world, have mercy on us.
God the Holy Spirit, have mercy on us.
Holy Trinity, one God, have mercy on us.
Holy Spirit, proceeding from the Father and the Son, come and fill us.
Holy Spirit, promised by Christ, come and fill us.
Holy Spirit, the Comforter, come and fill us.
Holy Spirit, the Sanctifier, come and fill us.
Holy Spirit, who governs the Church, come and fill us.
Gift of God the Most High, come and fill us.
Spirit of wisdom and understanding, come and fill us.
Spirit of counsel and fortitude, come and fill us.
Spirit of knowledge and piety, come and fill us.
Spirit of the fear of the Lord, come and fill us.
Spirit of grace and prayer, come and fill us.
Spirit of love and truth, come and fill us.
Spirit of peace and joy, come and fill us.
Closing Prayer:
Holy Spirit, we thank You for the life and ministry of Fr. Robert Kiefer. May his memory live on in our hearts, inspiring us to walk in Your light and share Your love with the world. Guide us as we strive to live out our faith with the same fervor and dedication that he exemplified. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Marian Devotion to the Memory of Fr. Robert Kiefer
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Opening Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we gather in Your presence to remember and honor Your faithful servant, Fr. Robert Kiefer. Through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we ask for Your grace and peace as we reflect on his life and legacy. May our hearts be filled with gratitude and devotion as we commemorate his dedicated service to You.
Scripture Reading:
Luke 1:46-49: “And Mary said: ‘My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me—holy is his name.'”
Reflection:
Fr. Robert Kiefer had a profound devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, drawing strength and inspiration from her example of faith and obedience. His life mirrored Mary’s humble service and unwavering trust in God’s plan. As we remember Fr. Robert, we are reminded of Mary’s maternal care and intercession, guiding us to her Son, Jesus.
Prayer to Our Lady:
Most Holy Mary, we honor you as the Mother of God and our Mother. We thank you for your constant intercession and for the life of Fr. Robert Kiefer, who dedicated his ministry to following your Son. Help us to imitate your virtues and trust in God’s will as we honor Fr. Robert’s memory.
Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary:
Lord, have mercy.
Christ, have mercy.
Lord, have mercy.
God the Father of Heaven, have mercy on us.
God the Son, Redeemer of the world, have mercy on us.
God the Holy Spirit, have mercy on us.
Holy Trinity, one God, have mercy on us.
Holy Mary, pray for us.
Holy Mother of God, pray for us.
Holy Virgin of virgins, pray for us.
Mother of Christ, pray for us.
Mother of the Church, pray for us.
Mother of divine grace, pray for us.
Mother most pure, pray for us.
Mother most chaste, pray for us.
Mother inviolate, pray for us.
Mother undefiled, pray for us.
Mother most amiable, pray for us.
Mother most admirable, pray for us.
Mother of good counsel, pray for us.
Mother of our Creator, pray for us.
Mother of our Savior, pray for us.
Virgin most prudent, pray for us.
Virgin most venerable, pray for us.
Virgin most renowned, pray for us.
Virgin most powerful, pray for us.
Virgin most merciful, pray for us.
Virgin most faithful, pray for us.
Mirror of justice, pray for us.
Seat of wisdom, pray for us.
Cause of our joy, pray for us.
Spiritual vessel, pray for us.
Vessel of honor, pray for us.
Singular vessel of devotion, pray for us.
Mystical rose, pray for us.
Tower of David, pray for us.
Tower of ivory, pray for us.
House of gold, pray for us.
Ark of the covenant, pray for us.
Gate of heaven, pray for us.
Morning star, pray for us.
Health of the sick, pray for us.
Refuge of sinners, pray for us.
Comforter of the afflicted, pray for us.
Help of Christians, pray for us.
Queen of angels, pray for us.
Queen of patriarchs, pray for us.
Queen of prophets, pray for us.
Queen of apostles, pray for us.
Queen of martyrs, pray for us.
Queen of confessors, pray for us.
Queen of virgins, pray for us.
Queen of all saints, pray for us.
Queen conceived without original sin, pray for us.
Queen assumed into heaven, pray for us.
Queen of the most holy Rosary, pray for us.
Queen of families, pray for us.
Queen of peace, pray for us.
Closing Prayer:
Blessed Virgin Mary, we thank you for your loving intercession and for the life and ministry of Fr. Robert Kiefer. May his memory inspire us to grow in faith, hope, and love, following your example of devotion and obedience to God’s will. Guide us always to your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.