The longtime superintendent of the Delaware County Board of Developmental Disabilities, Robert R. “Bob” Morgan, died Tuesday. He was 70 years old.

Morgan retired from the superintendent’s job in May 2015 after serving in the role for more than 31 years. He lived in Lewis Center.

“Bob was known throughout the community for his passion and drive to help people with developmental disabilities,” said Kristine Hodge, current DCBDD superintendent. “He was a visionary in many ways, helping to grow innovative programs while fostering strong community ties. He left us with an amazing team, and we will continue to build on the foundation he laid.”

“Among many other accomplishments in his time with DCBDD, Bob Morgan was a national leader in the idea of self-determination,” states the agency’s website. “He truly believed that families should have control over the services they receive. Bob also received the Kenneth Legats Award for visionary leadership in administration in 2010.”

“Along with Bob’s many civic and business responsibilities, he always found time to play Santa Claus for all those who believe,” his obituary states.

Hailing from Tallmadge, Ohio, Morgan graduated from Mount Union College with a bachelor of arts in psychology. He was a scholarship athlete there, lettering three years on the varsity football team. He also graduated from Akron University with a master of arts in education. He served in the U.S. Army as a captain in military intelligence and was stationed in Germany.

He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Lynn McDowell Morgan; two sons; and extended family.

A memorial service will be on Saturday, March 5, at 2 p.m. at Snyder-Rodman Funeral Home, 1510 W. William St.