Robert F. Sheahan, Beloved 'Mad Plumber'

Robert "Bob" Francis Sheahan, of Bensalem died on Friday. He was 77.

Born in Philadelphia on Dec. 9, 1935, he was the son of the late Frank and Rose (Crawley) Sheahan. He grew up in the neighborhood around Connie Mack Stadium with his siblings Joan Dornisch (Jack); Frank Sheahan (Sue); Elaine Valle (Joe) and Rose Cone (John). 

He played the quarterback position for the Murrell Dobbins High School football team and after graduating in 1954 enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served during the Korean Conflict.

Sheahan carried on a family tradition when he joined Plumbers’ Local Union 690 in 1967 following his grandfather Eugene and father Frank into the plumbing trade. He retired in 2001. His children affectionately called him “The Mad Plumber.” 

He was predeceased in August 1998 by the love of his life, Kathy Nolan Sheahan, after 10 years of marriage. Together they created a warm and loving home for all 11 of their children. 

Sheahan is survived by his children, Anita Sheahan Coraluzzi (Harry); Frank Sheahan (Donna); Robin Sheahan; Randi Sheahan Fletcher (David); Staci McHale (Rick); Damian Sheahan (Denise); Wendy Sheahan Coyne (Jason), and stepfather of Eddie Nolan (Lisa) , Billy Nolan (Colleen), Michael Nolan (Kathy) and Kathy Nolan Gerstle (Gus). He is also survived by his companion, Eileen Fox.

He was a dedicated supporter of Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and the Wounded Warrior Project. In lieu of flowers his family respectfully requests donations be made in his name to either of these vital organizations.

Although services will be private, Sheahan’s children invite family, friends and other “mad plumbers” to share in a celebration of his life at an informal open house on Nov. 2 from noon until 6 p.m., at his home, 947 Locust Ave., Bensalem.