Arnold Joseph “Arnie/A.J.” Rohrer

Arnold Joseph “Arnie/AJ” Rohrer, 89, of Fountain Hills, AZ, passed away peacefully at home on April 21, 2025. Born on August 3, 1935, in Wilkinsburg, PA, near Pittsburgh, he was a devoted husband to Dottie of 60 years and a loving father to Kevin and Kelly.
As a first-generation American, Arnie was hard-working and dedicated, which stemmed from the strong Germanic upbringing of his parents, Helen (Herbermann) and Joseph Rohrer. After graduating from the University of Pittsburgh’s engineering program, he spent over 30 years working as a Metallurgical Engineer for U.S. Steel throughout Pittsburgh, including his stint as the Chief Metallurgist at Homestead Steel Works. Despite his many responsibilities, he always made time for his family and his many interests.
Arnie’s hobbies helped define who he was. He had a tremendous passion for sports – both playing them and as a spectator. As a student at Central Catholic High School in Pittsburgh, he enjoyed playing basketball and tennis. He loved supporting all of Pittsburgh’s sports teams – especially the Steelers – and spent many weekends attending games in their Super Bowl era of the 1970s and 80s. Arnie’s love for sports and competition was something he shared with his children, leaving a mark on them that will never fade.
Arnie also appreciated traveling and enjoyed the many trips he took with Dottie and his family and friends to Europe, Hawaii, the Caribbean, Mexico, Myrtle Beach, the Southwest, Palm Desert, and even a life-defining cross-country road trip he took with his best friend Andy as a young man. His work took him to Brazil, Turkey, the Ukraine, and to many parts of the U.S., as well.
After retiring to Arizona, Arnie honed his golf skills well into his early 80s, playing 2-3 times per week with several men’s golf leagues. He enjoyed spending time with friends at the Men’s Club of Fountain Hills and singing in the Church of the Ascension choir. Other interests included following politics and the stock market, playing video poker, betting on sports, watching the Phoenix Suns, playing cards, enjoying fine food, and conversing with family and friends.
He is survived by his wife, Dottie, son Kevin (Lisa Guenther) Rohrer of Goodyear, AZ, daughter Kelly Rohrer of Oakmont, PA, sister Joan (Arthur) Hundhausen of Boulder, CO, three nephews, as well as many extended family members and friends who he cherished and who will miss him dearly.
A memorial mass will be held on Monday, May 19, at 10 a.m. at the Church of the Ascension Catholic Church at 12615 North Fountain Hills Boulevard, Fountain Hills, AZ 85268. Donations in Arnie’s honor can be made to the American Cancer Society or Central Catholic High School of Pittsburgh.
We find comfort in knowing that Dad’s legacy lives on through the many lessons he taught us, the love and laughter we shared, and the incredible memories we will cherish forever. He was a man of integrity, kindness, generosity, and good humor, and he has left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.