Robert Mabry Ort, Jr.

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Robert Mabry Ort Jr. on November, 17, 2024. Robert passed away unexpectedly in the home that he loved on Lake Whitney.

Robert was born to Marie Hill and Robert M. Ort Sr. on July 11, 1952 in Dallas, Texas. Robert grew up in Dallas where he formed lifelong bonds with his best friends, Bill Nichol and Art Hoffman. After graduating from Thomas Jefferson High School and Richland College, Robert went to work for his Dad as a manager of the Donut Factory in Valley View Mall. This is where he met his future wife, Kathy Giordano and she met Bill and Art as well. Three years later in 1979, Robert and Kathy were married.

Robert started his 35 year career with Roma Foods Texas. He started in the warehouse as a truck driver and worked his way up with many promotions to Regional Sales Manager. Bob, as he was known, built many relationships with the Roma family. From working Dad, gentle giant, mentor and friend, Robert managed to build and raise a loving family during these years.

The great outdoors was always important to him. Family traditions formed throughout the years with trips to the White River and Bull Shoals. This is where his sons learned to kayak, trout fish, and water ski. Robert also loved fishing and hunting, which also became traditions through annual dove hunting trips and both coastal and lake fishing adventures with family and friends.

When the grandkids were born, he loved them so much; they could just melt his heart. Christmas, birthdays and holidays brought so many smiles and new joy to his life. Recently, a family pontoon boat was added, getting Robert back in the lake again to swim and play with all of the grandkids. He was so proud of his sons, daughters in love and grandkids.

Everyone who knew Robert knows how much he loved music, the hot tub and his RV. He enjoyed taking trips with his wife, Kathy, his brother Jack and sister-in-law Tracy, and brother-in-law and sister-in-law Pat and Kerri. In celebration of their 45th wedding anniversary, Robert and Kathy took their dream road trip to Alaska where many cherished memories were made. Last October, Robert’s niece held her dream wedding here on the lake bringing family, friends and more memories, not knowing it would be the last time we would all be together.

Robert was a loving husband, Dad, Papa and respected businessman. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him. Robert is survived by his loving wife, Kathy, sons Rusty Ort (Mary) of Richardson, TX, Jeff Ort (Stephanie) of Frisco, TX, grandkids Carsyn, Riley, Cameron and Ryan, his brother Jack Ort (Tracy) of Rockport, TX, sister Jane Rogers (Jim) of Austin, TX, mother-in-law Gail Giordano, sister-in-law Kerri Tate (Pat), along with many beloved nieces, nephews and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Tunnel to Towers or a charity of your choice. A celebration of life will be held at a later date in Spring ’25 for close family and friends at Robert’s favorite place, Lake Whitney, Texas. Invitations to follow.