Robert "Bob" Nicholas DeRosa passed away from respiratory failure on September 7, 2021. Born on January 26, 1948 in Manhattan, New York, to father Frank DeRosa, and mother Margaret. He was the youngest of four sons.

Bob was a kind and loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He is survived by his high school sweetheart Rosemarie, wife of 54 years, and their three children: Robert Jr., Donna (Luke), and Peter (Lynn). He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Janet (Joseph) whom he has know since she was 4 years old. Bob's 6 grandchildren were the highlight of his life, and his heart and joy - Giuliana, Nicholas, Evan, Isabella, Madelyn, and David. He went by many names with them - Grandpa, Gramps, Gramps-a-roo, and Grampy; he loved them all. He and Rosemarie would make several trips a year from Florida to Massachusetts and New York for holidays, birthdays, and many other family events. Bob was the epitome of a "family man".

Bob retired from the paper business after 25 years of exceptional service at New York Envelope. Shortly thereafter, he decided that he was not quite ready for full-time retirement, so in 2014 he joined 'the happiest place on earth' and began working at Disney's Animal Kingdom. He loved it!

His battle with serious medical issues in recent months showed his courage in facing life's challenges with a smile and endless hope. Just like he dealt with all experiences in life, Bob managed his illness with strength and grace and wanted to spend as much time with his family as possible.  In his final days he was indeed surrounded by family who adored him more than anything in the world. Despite the difficulties, Bob came out a hero and stayed strong until the end.

Bob was a wonderfully faithful Christian man who is very much loved, deeply missed, and will always be cherished. He was a light in this world and filled everyone's life around him with love, joy, and positivity. He was a friend to everyone he met and a source of strength to all who knew him. Bob always taught his family to do the right thing, and they will continue to live his noble legacy.

The outpouring of prayers, good wishes, and love he received in the months leading to his passing have been a blessing, truly inspiring, and comforting to his family.

Bob will be honored at Becker Funeral Home on Thursday, September 23rd. Visitation hours are from 3-5 pm and 7-9 pm.

Funeral mass is scheduled for Friday, September 24th at 1 pm at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Clermont, Florida.

Burial will follow after the mass at Oak Hills Cemetery in Clermont, Florida.