Robert Joseph Dietz Edsall

Robert Joseph Dietz Edsall passed away peacefully at home on December 28, 2024, at the age of 82. Born on March 25, 1942, Robert lived a remarkable life filled with accomplishments, adventures, and a deep love for family and friends.

Robert proudly served in the United States Navy as an Aviation Fire Control Technician and was a member of the prestigious Navy Flying Rifles Drill Precision Team. After his military service, he pursued education with determination, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Chemical Engineering, and Business Administration from the University of Maryland. His thirst for knowledge led him to further studies at the New York Institute of Finance, the National Institute of Stocks and Bonds, American University’s Creative Design & Advertising Course, and specialized technical schools, including Bell & Howell Electronic School, Diamond Reo Truck Tech School, and Ricoh Offset & Electrical School.

His professional journey began at The Washington Daily News as an Account Executive. He then joined Legg, Mason & Sons as a stockbroker before becoming Vice President and co-owner of Divco Truck Sales. In 1968, Robert founded his own company, Inter-Graphics, specializing in offset duplicating machines and supplies. Representing Ricoh of America and over 70 U.S. distributors and manufacturers, Robert's entrepreneurial spirit flourished.

He also contributed to education, developing vocational programs for D.C. Public Schools in Offset Duplicating. He authored curriculum materials, conducted seminars for school staff, and served as a trusted graphic consultant for major firms, streamlining in-house printing operations and bookkeeping systems. Robert also had a talent for entertaining and charming people with his love for magic and sleight of hand, often using his skills to connect with others and create lasting memories.

An accomplished creative, Robert wrote the advertising jingle for Koons Ford in Fairfax, Virginia, which became a syndicated national program adopted by other Ford dealerships.

Beyond his professional life, Robert held many roles: a licensed F.C.C. ham radio operator, a Notary Public in Montgomery County, and a member of the Fraternal Order of Police, the Better Business Bureau, and the Washington, D.C. Board of Trade.

Robert was a man of many passions. He enjoyed scuba diving, motorcycling, woodworking, and flying, having earned his pilot’s license. Known for his ingenuity and resourcefulness, he was the go-to person for family and friends whenever something needed fixing or a unique problem required solving.

Above all, Robert loved his family. In 2019, he welcomed his final grandson, Holden, who brought immense joy and laughter into his life during his final years. The hours spent playing and imagining with Holden were among his most cherished memories.

Robert is survived by his beloved wife of 37 years, Sharon; his children, Pollux Dietz, Tracy Cobile (and husband Eric), Revel Marlow (and husband Gary), Rachael Gureckis (and husband Michael), brother Jacques Dietz (and wife Jeanie); and his eight grandchildren: Crystalyn Gureckis, Kaylyn Marlow Owens, Michael Ryan Gureckis, Garyn Marlow, Cole Gureckis, Shawn Thomlyn Marlow, Jardin Cobile (and wife Grace Skinner), and Holden Dietz Shoemaker. He is preceded in death by his parents, his son Little John, and his brother James Dietz.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, January 20, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Victory Christian Center, 7722 Edgewood Church Road, Frederick, Maryland 21702.

Robert’s life was one of curiosity, hard work, and love, leaving a legacy of dedication, creativity, and resilience for those who knew and loved him.