Rolf W. Weiss

Rolf W. Weiss, 87, a resident of Bluffton, South Carolina, passed away peacefully at his home in Sun City on November 5, 2026.

Rolf was born on August 28, 1939, in Vesser, Germany, to Wilhelm and Elli Weiss. He grew up in Germany, where he attended trade school and pursued his passion for scientific glassblowing, graduating in 1961.

Rolf and his wife, Marlene, married in 1961. In 1962, they immigrated to the United States under contract with Kahl's Scientific in El Cajon, California. Rolf proudly became a U.S. citizen in 1996.

Throughout his distinguished career, Rolf dedicated more than 42 years to the craft of scientific glassblowing, specializing in the production of deep-sea reversing thermometers. His exceptional skill and craftsmanship made him one of the last glassblowers in the world capable of producing these highly specialized scientific instruments. It was a rare and remarkable talent that he carried with pride until his retirement.

Rolf and Marlene spent most of their lives in California, where they worked, raised their family, and eventually retired. They later moved to Bluffton, South Carolina, in 2021, where they made their home in Sun City.

Rolf is survived by his beloved wife, Marlene W. Weiss; his three sons, Winfried F. Weiss of Santee, California; Andreas R. Weiss and his wife, Tracey L. Weiss, of Santee, California; and Michael C. Weiss and his wife, Heather L. Weiss, of Bluffton, South Carolina. He also leaves behind four grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Rolf will be remembered as a man of few words but a loving heart, devoted to his family and the handful of close friends he cherished throughout his life. He found enjoyment in riding his bicycle, watching his DVDs, and reading books. Though never one to seek the spotlight, he left a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to truly know him.

He will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by all whose lives he touched.

In loving memory, may he rest in peace.