Robert P. Stiener, age 94 of Merrillville, passed away peacefully at his place of residence Monday, February 23, 2009. He was a member of the Merrillville United Methodist Church and retired from U.S. Steel Merchant Mill in 1972 after 35 years of service. Robert was active in Merrillville Little League, the Methodist Church Dartball League and loved to play baseball. In his early years he was offered a baseball contract in the Minor Leagues but opted to work in the steel mills instead. Robert took pride in his gardening and shared the efforts of his green thumb with family and friends. He also enjoyed raising ducks and geese. Robert was preceded in death by his wife, Emma Stiener and eldest son, Robert F. Stiener. Robert is survived by four sons: Richard C. Carolyn Stiener of Clifton, VA, Thomas J. Diane Stiener of Commerce Township, MI, Dennis D. Ruth Stiener of Merrillville and William Stiener of Crown Point; 16 grandchildren; and 29 great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held Thursday, February 26, 2009 at 1:30 PM at Geisen Funeral Home, 7905 Broadway, Merrillville, with Rev. Jerry Walworth officiating. Interment to follow at Calumet Park Cemetery, Merrillville. Friends may visit with the family Wednesday, February 25th from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the funeral home. In memory of Robert, memorial donations may be made to the Robert F. Stiener Scholarship Fund thru the Merrillville United Methodist Church, 305 E. 68th Place, Merrillville, IN 46410. To share a memory or send a condolence to the family, please visit the guestbook section at www.geisenfuneralhome.com. For information call 219-769-3322.