William Robert Haas

William Robert Haas, 75, passed away peacefully at CaroMont Regional Medical Center on November 16, 2024 with his loving family by his side. He was born in Gaston County on March 15, 1949 to the late Robert and Lucille Haas. 

Robert was the patriarch of our family. He lived his life with love, integrity, humility, wisdom, patience, compassion, and devotion, and selflessly offered his help to family, friends, and anyone who needed him. He had the best sense of humor and loved to make people laugh, especially his great-granddaughters. To know Robert was to love him

He was also a survivor. Robert lost his mother when he was 10 and his childhood was tough. As the oldest of his siblings, he was thrust into the position of caretaker, which shaped him into the caring and giving provider he was. These experiences also kindled a staunch resolve to never again live in poverty, fear, or neglect. 

As a natural protector, in the 70s Robert started martial arts and became a second-degree black belt. The bonds he formed with his martial arts friends continued until his death. They loved each other like brothers, and they were there for him till the end. 

Robert’s work ethic was unmatched. With only an eleventh-grade education, he started at NAPA Auto Parts in 1969 delivering parts, and tirelessly worked his way up to an executive position in the company. He retired after 50 years of service, a true American story.

After retiring Robert lived life to the fullest, traveling often and buying all of the toys he always wanted, including a convertible red Corvette, a Harley, and a boat. His last years were some of the best of his life. He was head-over-heels in love with Sonya, and loved sharing his life with her. She jokingly called him “boss man,” but everyone knew he would’ve hung the moon for her if she asked. Their happy place was the beach, where they created many beautiful memories. 

Again, to know Robert was to love him. Your life was better if he was in it. His smile, his laugh, and his love and generosity will be sorely missed, but the wonderful memories he created will live on forever in our hearts.

Robert is survived by his beloved wife, Sonya Cowan; son, Shane Haas; brother, Mike Haas (Libby); step-brother, Fred Chambers; sister, Vivian Farmer (Randall); granddaughter, Jessica Hudome (Mark); and his great-granddaughters, Evie and Rosie. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his step-mother Anna Mae Chambers.

A visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 8, 2024 at Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home. Following the visitation at 3:00 p.m., family and friends will gather in the chapel to share their memories in celebration of Robert's life.  

Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia, NC (704) 864-5144 is serving the family.

Online condolences may be made at: www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com