Robert Rohrbach
Obituary Reports the death of an individual, providing an account of the person’s life including their achievements, any controversies in which they were involved, and reminiscences by people who knew them.
Robert (Bob) Luther Rohrbach, a proud veteran, loving family man and dedicated community member, passed away peacefully on Oct. 21 in Somers. He was 95.
Born on May 21, 1928, in Queens to Arthur and Theresa (Luther) Rohrbach, Bob’s life was marked by service, love and a deep appreciation for nature.
Bob was a proud alumnus of the Fort Schuyler Maritime Academy, Class of ’49, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in marine science. For three-and-a-half years after graduation, he sailed on various Esso (Exxon) tankers as AB, third and second mate before he was called into the U.S. Navy.
Bob served from 1952 to 1954, stationed mainly in Norfolk, Va., on board the Taconic AGC17 as combat information center officer and officer of the deck underway. He was discharged from the Navy with a rank of lieutenant (junior grade).
After his military service, Bob embarked on a successful career as a shipping broker for the Victor B. Benham Co., Ltd., where he worked for 42 years. His dedication and hard work were evident in his longstanding tenure with the company.
Bob was not only a dedicated professional, but also a devoted family man. He is survived by his loving children, Karen (Glenn) Cestaro, Nancy (Steven) Trombetta, Ellen (Brian) Parise and Sarah (Martel) Meyer. He was a proud grandfather to Jacqueline (Ryan) Cooney, Michael (Becky) Parise, Francesca Trombetta, Caitlin Parise and Benjamin Trombetta, and great-grandfather to Riley and Emma Cooney. Bob was predeceased by his wife, Barbara; his brother, Wilbur; and his parents, Arthur and Theresa.
Bob enjoyed annual vacations with family in Lake George, and in later years in Martha’s Vineyard. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and attending their sporting events (he was their biggest fan), theatrical and musical performances and graduations. He had a great love for all animals, especially the family dogs and cats.
Bob was an active member of his community. He was a longstanding member of the Thornwood Lions Club. While living in Heritage Hills, Bob was a member of 10-A Men’s Club and volunteered with the Health and Safety Committee, helping his wife, Barbara, run the flu shot program.
Bob was a loyal Dodgers fan and an avid reader. He enjoyed gardening and looked forward to potting his flowers every spring.
He was a man who lived his life with honor, love and a deep sense of community. His legacy will live on in the hearts of his family, friends and all those whose lives he touched. His memory will be cherished and his life celebrated for the love and joy he brought into the world. Bob’s life was a testament to a life well-lived and he will be deeply missed.
In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions in his name to the SUNY Maritime Foundation, 6 Pennyfield Ave., Throggs Neck, N.Y. 10465 or online at sunymaritime.edu/donate-now. Make checks payable to SUNY Maritime Foundation and please indicate that the donation is a Tribute Gift in Robert Rohrbach’s memory.
Contributions may also be made to Comfort Care Rooms at Phelps Hospital and mailed to Development Office, Attn: Jill Scibilia, 1 Phelps Lane, Suite 106, Sleepy Hollow, N.Y. 10591 or online at phelpsgiving.org/give-now. You can select “Comfort Care” on the drop-down menu. Make checks payable to Phelps Hospital and please designate your donation for “Comfort Care – Robert Rohrbach.” For assistance, call Christine Creat at 914-366-3107.
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