Obituary for Robert Barbella
Robert (Bob) Barbella, a beloved son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend passed on the morning of June 2, 2020, at the age of 84. Robert was born on December 3, 1935 in The Bronx, New York to Dominic and Lena Barbella.
Robert was a talented drummer and veteran of the US Army as part of the First Army Band before going on the road as a musician. He later graduated from NYU’s School of Engineering. Robert worked for Northrop Grumman as a computer programmer during the 1960’s. One of his proudest accomplishments was working on the Apollo program which designed and built the Lunar Module, the vehicle that landed the first men on the moon. He then worked for Con Edison as a programmer analyst rising to the rank of Senior Systems Manager of Data Management Services and retired after 26 years. Robert spent many years running with the New York Road Runners Club and finished 6 marathons. He was also an avid tennis player. Bob was known for his easy-going personality, contagious sense of humor and generosity. He was devoted to his family and beloved by friends and coworkers.
Robert was predeceased by his brother Anthony. He is survived by his wife, Kathy, of 45 years. He also leaves behind 4 children, Peter (Cathy), Robert (Laura), and John Barbella; and Jennifer Vandeloo (Mark). He will be missed by his 8 grandchildren, Robert, Christina, Joseph, Timothy, and Juliann Barbella; Noah, Emma and Ashley Vandeloo. Bob also leaves behind 6 nieces and nephews, John, Larry, Lauren, Molly, Ethan, and Taylor.
A funeral mass will be held at a future date Private Interment Ferncliff Cemetery
Contributions in his memory may be made to Robert’s favorite charity, St. Jude’s Hospital (www.stjude.org) or see link below
Robert was a talented drummer and veteran of the US Army as part of the First Army Band before going on the road as a musician. He later graduated from NYU’s School of Engineering. Robert worked for Northrop Grumman as a computer programmer during the 1960’s. One of his proudest accomplishments was working on the Apollo program which designed and built the Lunar Module, the vehicle that landed the first men on the moon. He then worked for Con Edison as a programmer analyst rising to the rank of Senior Systems Manager of Data Management Services and retired after 26 years. Robert spent many years running with the New York Road Runners Club and finished 6 marathons. He was also an avid tennis player. Bob was known for his easy-going personality, contagious sense of humor and generosity. He was devoted to his family and beloved by friends and coworkers.
Robert was predeceased by his brother Anthony. He is survived by his wife, Kathy, of 45 years. He also leaves behind 4 children, Peter (Cathy), Robert (Laura), and John Barbella; and Jennifer Vandeloo (Mark). He will be missed by his 8 grandchildren, Robert, Christina, Joseph, Timothy, and Juliann Barbella; Noah, Emma and Ashley Vandeloo. Bob also leaves behind 6 nieces and nephews, John, Larry, Lauren, Molly, Ethan, and Taylor.
A funeral mass will be held at a future date Private Interment Ferncliff Cemetery
Contributions in his memory may be made to Robert’s favorite charity, St. Jude’s Hospital (www.stjude.org) or see link below