Robert C. Oberman

October 19, 2026, was a sad day for the children of Central Pennsylvania, as Robert C. Oberman, better known to so many as “Anchoovie” the clown, passed away. Throughout his life, Bob dedicated himself to serving others, building lasting friendships, and bringing smiles to the faces of children and adults.

Born on December 18, 1945, to Robert C. Oberman, Sr. and Helen Oberman Rawson, Bob grew up in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. He attended Central Dauphin High School and Franklin & Marshall College, where he became a national archery champion and met Linley, the love of his life. They married and shared 57 years of love, laughter, cherished memories, and adventures.

Bob began his career as a geologist with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation in Indiana, Pennsylvania, where he also served as a Boy Scout master. He later returned to Harrisburg, becoming an administrator with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and establishing MOHR Air Conditioning. Outside of work, he enjoyed hunting, boating, fishing, golf, and cooking, and cherished his role as Uncle Bob.

Following retirement, Bob remained active as a 32° Mason, serving as Master of Robert Burns Lodge 464 and was a member of the Scottish Rite Valley of Harrisburg, Tall Cedars Forest 43, and Zembo Shrine. Through his Shrine service, he often drove children to Shriners Children’s Hospital in Philadelphia, forming meaningful relationships with the children and their families and helping make difficult times a little easier.

Bob was also a ballroom dancer, a member of the Shriners Motorcycle Club, and a talented woodworker who delighted in making and gifting items to friends. But it was clowning that left his most distinctive mark. As Anchoovie, he entertained generations of children at Zembo circuses and community parades. His many awards reflected his dedication and talent, but the recognition he treasured most was being named the best clown by the children themselves. Their happiness was always his greatest reward.

Friends and strangers alike remembered Bob for his unmistakable smile and his remarkable ability to bring joy to others. Whether serving his community, helping families, sharing his craftsmanship, or making children laugh, Bob lived a life defined by kindness, generosity, and humor.

Bob leaves behind a legacy measured not in awards or accomplishments, but in the countless lives he touched. He reminded us that sometimes the greatest gift one person can give another is a reason to smile. In the memories of the many children who knew him as Anchoovie, that smile will live on.

Rather than holding a funeral, Linley invites friends to call or visit her at home at their convenience. In lieu of flowers, family and friends may honor Bob’s memory with a donation to either Masonic Charities of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania or Shriners Children’s Hospital in Philadelphia, reflecting his lifelong dedication to helping children and bringing joy to their lives.