The Cincinnati community is dealing with the sudden loss of Robert Weidle, who, adorned in the red suit and white beard for two decades, was the embodiment of holiday joy at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. Dayton 24/7 Now reported last Friday that Weidle, known for his role as Santa Claus during the zoo's PNC Festival of Lights, passed away last Wednesday.
In a message shared within a private Facebook group, the zoo spoke to the heart of Weidle's persona, stating, "His magic will always be with us, in spirit," Dayton 24/7 Now reports. The schedule for Santa visits will continue at the zoo through December 23rd, despite the community mourning his unexpected death.
According to The Cincinnati Enquirer, Weidle embodied the holiday spirit beyond the confines of the Cincinnati Zoo. His death came as a shock particularly because it occurred mere hours after fulfilling his Santa duties on Wednesday night. Weidle's ties to the theater stretched many years, having been an active player, director, and contributor to local troupes such as the Footlighters, Inc. and Cincinnati Music Theatre. His impact on the community was described with a deep sense of respect and admiration.
Adding to the collective memory, WLWT notes that Weidle was "a gifted performer, director, producer, board member, and box office manager" who left an indelible mark on all those he encountered, thanks to his "distinctive laugh and gentle demeanor." Reflective of the community's affection, the Cincinnati Zoo emphasized Weidle's importance, "Anyone who met him loved Robert. With his distinctive laugh and gentle demeanor, he had an inherent way of connecting with people instantly," as taken from WLWT. The cause of Weidle's death has not been disclosed, and his family, as well as the zoo, have kept private on the matter. A GoFundMe has been established for those wishing to support Weidle's family in this difficult time.
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