Lakewood, New Jersey Native and Former Baseball Champion Robert I. Kirschner Passes at 86, Survived by Wife Frances and Their Children

In 2003, the late Robert I. Kirschner and his longtime wife, Frances were named Citizens of the Year by the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce for their remarkable contribution to the community.

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Robert I. Kirschner, a former New Jersey baseball star and longtime teacher and owner of a real estate company, passed away on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at the age of 86.

While the actual cause of death of Lakewood, New Jersey native Robert I. Kirschner, also known as Bob, has not been disclosed, his wife of 60 years, Frances, shared on social media that he was admitted to Columbia Presbyterian Hospital in New York City on March 15.

The post reads:

“My wonderful husband of 60 1/2 years, Bob Kirschner, passed away on August 12 at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital, NYC, where he had been since March 15. I kept praying for a miracle, but Hashem must have needed another angel. I appreciate all the love and support I have received.”

Fran Kirschner

Robert Kirschner, born on January 5, 1939, was an amazing athlete who showcased his baseball skills while attending Lake Wood Public Schools, from which he graduated in 1957.

According to his obituary page, Robert was a Junior assistant scoutmaster for Boy Scout Troop 4 during his high school career.

He further played football and baseball and was a key pitcher on the 1957 Shore Conference and Central Jersey Championship baseball team.

Similarly, during his junior year of high school, Robert Kirschner joined the U.S. Naval Reserve, serving actively with the Atlantic Fleet for two years after graduation.

While it is unclear if Robert Kirschner continued his athletic journey, his contribution to the community and sports field will always be remembered by his friends, family, and loved ones.

The late Robert I. Kirschner Began His Career in Teaching and Real Estate After Earning His Bachelor’s Degree

Robert I. Kirschner not only touched the lives of many with his exceptional athletic skills, but also guided thousands of people as a teacher and real estate agent.

He began his dual career in education and real estate after earning his B.A. from Montclair State Teachers College in 1963. Bob earned his M.A. from the same college in 1967.

Robert began his career as a teacher at his alma mater, Lakewood High School, and spent nearly four decades in the Lakewood Public Schools as a teacher, guidance counselor, career counselor, and administrator.

Throughout his many years working at Lakewood Public Schools, Robert managed five different departments and played a key role in advancing the district’s technology initiatives.

He led the establishment of the first technology labs and guided the process of digitizing the school libraries. In recognition of his pioneering work, he was awarded a Certificate of Distinction by the New Jersey Department of Education.

Along with his longtime wife, Fran, who also served as the teacher at Lakewood High School for over three decades, Robert supported many students, providing them with numerous gifts, including athletic jackets.

The couple also took some students into their house temporarily and sheltered them.

After retiring from his teaching career, Bob founded his own real estate company initially named Arrow Affiliates Real Estate, Inc., later renamed as Robert Kirschner Real Estate, Inc., in Lakewood, New Jersey.

Bob’s commitment to the community went well beyond his work in education and business. For over 15 years, he was a member of the Lakewood Industrial Commission and served many of those years as its Chairman.

During his tenure, he played a significant role in creating one of New Jersey’s largest municipally managed industrial parks.

He led efforts to expand the Lakewood Airport, including planning a new terminal design. Additionally, he was actively involved with the Lakewood Rotary Club, the Mayor’s Committee on the Handicapped, and the Lakewood Lions Club, and participated in several reunion committees for the Class of 1957.

In addition to his wife, Frances ‘Fran’, Robert Kirschner is survived by his two children, son Brian (Caren) of Eklins Park, PA, and daughter, Pamela Kirshcner Weinfield (Mark) of Newton, Mass, grandchildren, Nathan Kirschner, Adrew Weinfeld, Jessica Weinfeld and Alyssa Weinfeld, and sister, Carole Warm Snyder of Florida.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Jeanette Warm, and his father, Nathan Kirschner.

The family has organized a funeral service for the late Robert on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at Congregation Sons of Israel Holocaust Memorial Chapel, and the graveside committal services will be held on the same day at 11:45 am at Mount Sinai Cemetery, East 7th Street and Ramsey Avenue, Lakewood, New Jersey.

In Case You Didn’t Know

  • Together, Robert Kirschner and his wife Fran dedicated over seventy years to education and public services.
  • Robert also helped his wife, Fran, with her career in public relations at Frantasy Enterprises, serving as chauffeur as well as consultant on her many businesses.
  • He founded the Lakewood High School Alumni Association and served as its first president.
Suruchi Lohani
Suruchi Lohani
Suruchi is a business management student with a strong passion for writing, particularly when it comes to sports. She loves creating articles and blogs that explore various aspects of the sports world. With a curious mind and a love for both academics and creativity, she constantly seeks to expand her knowledge and share her insights through her writing.

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