Obituary of Robert Ilaria

Robert Ilaria, 88, of Clifton, passed away peacefully at home on Friday morning, January 18. Bob was born and raised in Newark, NJ. He joined the US Navy Armed Guard where he served on the ship John W. Brown in the European and Pacific Theaters from 1943 to 1946. He received the Distinguished Service Medal from New Jersey. Prior to serving in the US Navy, Bob was a baseball player/catcher and drafted by 3 major league baseball teams. He was a much loved friend and colleague at Riefolo Construction in Belleville where he was an estimator for many years. Bob is survived by his wife of 53 years, Dolores, daughter Robin Farnese and her husband Joseph, daughter Randy Mitchell and husband John, daughter Renee Woods and her husband Michael and five cherished granddaughters Nicole, Jacqueline, Alexa, Daniella, and Alexandra. Bob was an avid golfer who spent many happy days golfing with his friends. He also enjoyed playing handball at the YMCA. Most of all, Bob loved his family and was a hero in his daughters' eyes. He was a kind, beautiful soul and will forever be in the hearts of his family and many friends he made during his lifetime. Visitation will be private by the request of the family. A funeral Mass will be offered on Monday at 10:00am at Our Lady of Pompeii Church, 70 Murray Ave., Paterson. Private cremation to follow.