Earl Robert ("Bob") Lissit was born on March 8th, 1936, in Chicago, Illinois, to Dorothy (Segal) Lissit and Sidney Lissit.

He is survived by his son Scott, daughter Stacey, and daughter in-law Fanta, as well as grandchildren Abigail, Kadia, Josephine and Luke.  His son Daniel passed away in 2023. He was a devoted father and husband.

Bob graduated from South Shore High School in 1953, and from Northwestern University Medill School of Journalism in 1957 with Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Journalism.

He married Elaine Lissit in 1959, and Arlene Lissit in 1986 (who passed away in 2013).

Bob had an accomplished career in broadcast journalism and in academia.  One of his first jobs was as a producer for NBC News on the iconic Huntley Brinkley Report.  He was also a producer on ABC's The Reasoner Report, and on the PBS News Hour.  He was one of the original producers on ABC's Good Morning America show which won an Emmy award in 1976. Bob was an old-school journalist, deeply committed to getting the story right, bringing the truth and exposing injustice.  He particularly liked reporting on public interest stories such as unhealthy tap water, hoping to call attention to it and bring about positive changes. He was passionate about his work and expressed puzzlement at those who looked forward to retirement.

Bob was fortunate to find a second career that he was just as passionate about as being a news producer.  He was a Professor of Journalism at the Syracuse University Newhouse School of Public Communications from 1992 - 2011, where he taught undergraduate and graduate students.  He also spent a lot of time helping students find jobs at local TV news stations, and loved staying in touch with former students.  According to the Dean at the Newhouse School, "he leaves a lasting impact through the dedication he showed former students who went on to work in newsrooms across the country, and the enduring friendships he forged with colleagues."

Outside of work, Bob enjoyed taking the family on day trips, playing the piano, barbecuing ribs, and a good round of "catch" in the backyard. He loved playing board games and played a mean game of Scrabble. He was passionate about baseball, poodles, enjoyed country music, and attended the Preakness every year with his wife Arlene.

Bob passed away peacefully at his home on Feb 1st, 2025, with family at his bedside. Though he had been ill for a few years, he remained upbeat and chipper, discussing news, politics, and sports until his final days.