Robert Thomas DeFontes, age 94, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Saturday, September 29, 2018 at Mike Conley Cornerstone Hospice in Clermont, Florida. He was born September 17, 1924 in Baltimore City to Joseph V. DeFontes and Margaret (Ellison) DeFontes. Robert is survived by his wife, Karen DeFontes, sister Shirley Bray (John), four children; Marie D. Schuller (Robert), Robert Kirk DeFontes, Diane DeFontes, and Steven DeFontes, and four grandchildren.

Robert attended Southern High School. He left school to work as a film developer. When World War II broke out, Robert enlisted in the United States Army and was trained to be a medic. He served honorably in England during D-Day. Once discharged from the military, Robert immediately went to work at the G. M. Broening Plant in Baltimore where he worked on the assembly line for 15 years. He then joined his family business to operate their nursing home, from which he assisted in spearheading the licensing process of Nursing Home Administrators, setting the standards for future nursing home administrators of Maryland.

Robert became a Christian by surrendering his heart to Jesus Christ in 1981. His faith dominated his everyday life.

Robert was an avid fan of the Baltimore Colts in their heyday. He attended both home and away games, even in blizzards. Robert fell in love with motorcycling in his late 60's. Photography was a lifetime passion. Comic book super heroes captivated Robert and provided him with a fun past time. He was fascinated with wildlife and was constantly on the look out for any animals that might be nearby.

Many people close to Robert have expressed that he had a way of acknowledging people. Listening to them and being with them, making them feel valued.

Memorial services will be held on Friday, October 12, 2018 at 11:00 AM at Open Door Baptist Church, 17140 North Highway 27, Clermont, Florida 34715. (352)394-4905. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial donations in Robert's name to the Open Door Baptist Church's Missionary Fund.