“A Legacy of Service”
In 2013, Robert was diagnosed with bladder cancer. Around the same time, his niece asked him and his wife, Carmine, to take her to church one weekend while her mom was out of town. That weekend, they visited Holy Cross and decided to stay, becoming members of the Church.
Even as he battled his illness, Robert’s passion for serving others was evident. After losing his job due to his illness, he was offered the position of facilities manager at Holy Cross by Pastor Paul. Rob loved Holy Cross and took great pride in caring for the building and the schools. A skilled handyman, he could fix almost anything on his own; but he also loved working with others on projects. Whether it was helping with a Habitat for Humanity home, assisting with mobile homes after a hurricane, or simply going to a friend’s house to help with a problem, Rob was always ready to lend a hand. He was an “awesome sheetrocker” and loved using his skills to serve people.
Holy Cross quickly became a family to Rob and Carmine, offering support and love through many difficult times. Through it all, their faith in God and their love for one another remained strong. Though Robert passed away four years ago, his legacy of service and love continues to inspire those who knew him.
Just this past August 23rd, during a Church Workday, Carmine was helping out by painting under the bathroom sink. There, she found some writing belonging to Robert-a note he had left behind while working. It was a happy coincidence that felt God-ordained to Carmine—a small, comforting sign that blessed her as she served the Church they both loved.
