Robert Louis Saidla, 90, of Huntsville, passed away June 10, 2021. He is survived by his brother, Dr. John Saidla; four children; eight grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren. Mr. Saidla was preceded in death by his parents, Claud Ryan Saidla and Anna Jane Saidla, his beloved wife, Frances Ann Helms Saidla, brother, Claude, and sister, Mary.
With a degree in Civil engineering from Auburn University, he joined NASA as the space program was just beginning. He worked under Werner Von Braun and other German scientists. He served as Chief Test Conductor at Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, at NSTL in Bay St. Louis, MS, and at Cape Canaveral in Florida.
During those years, he also built the Saidla family home on Green Mountain in Huntsville. He and Frances had an open-door policy. All neighbors and family were always welcome into their home. He watched four generations grow up there to his delight.
One of his big goals in life was to be able to spend his last days in the Castle he built for his family. He achieved all his goals.
The family thanks all those who were a comfort to him during his final years.
Visitation will be from 1 to 2 p.m. on Friday, June 18 at Laughlin Service Funeral Home. The service will follow in the chapel with Pastor Byron Bradshaw officiating.
Flowers are appreciated, and memorials may be made to the Space and Rocket Center.
