Robert “Bob” Charles DelPriore, 64, of Vero Beach, passed away on May 11, 2015, after a very brief illness. As he wished, he passed at home with his family present.
He is survived by his loving daughter, or as he would say, “my darling daughter,” Dana DelPriore Myers of Saratoga Springs N.Y.; his granddaughter “peanut,” Melena Myers of Saratoga Springs; nephews Anthony DelPriore, Michael (Michelle) DelPriore, and Robert (Lynette) Krikorian; and nieces Lauren Krikorian and Sheila (Jim) Calise; countless cousins, and his ”fur grandchildren” Bella and Gizzy.
In addition to his parents, DelPriore was predeceased by his brother Anthony and sister Dolores Krikorian.
Born on July 20, 1950 in Yonkers N.Y., he was the son of the late Carmine and Lucia (Mattera) DelPriore. He was a graduate of Port Jervis High School, and served in the Army Reserves from 1971 to 1977. During his working life, DelPriore worked as a heavy duty equipment operator and diesel mechanic, and was known for his talent and skill in the trade. He worked for many local, well known establishments in the Tri- State area, and at one point, was the owner and operator of Del’s Truck and Automotive Repair. At retirement, he had been employed at Monticello Raceway for many years, and was also known to be the starting car driver for the harness races.
A lifelong resident of the Orange /Sullivan County area, in his free time, DelPriore could be found boating on Starlight lake enjoying life with his friends, helping out a friend, or at Tenke’s garage with his lifelong friend and “buddy” Jupe Tenke. He enjoyed many sports especially football and baseball, and was an avid Giants fan. He attended this year’s Daytona 500 with some of his best friends and he cherished that time spent with them.
DelPriore moved to Vero Beach in December to enjoy his retirement and prior to his terminal diagnosis, was the happiest he had ever been, living out his dream of retiring to Florida. He may have only had four short months before he got sick, but he loved every second of his time there.
He loved his family and was especially proud of his granddaughter, his “peanut” Melena. He beamed with pride whenever he spoke of her and wanted nothing more than to see her graduate from college. Although he was not present physically, he was certainly with us in spirit.
Loved by everyone that knew him, DelPriore was known for his bright smile, dapper good looks, and his always friendly and outgoing personality. This could not be more apparent than in these last few weeks. The outpouring of love, prayers and support has truly been extraordinary and a true testament to the lives he touched. The family is very humbled, thankful and grateful. He will be forever missed and loved by all who knew him.
At his request, there will be no services and cremation will be arranged by Strunk Funeral Home in Vero Beach. The family requests that donations may be made on his behalf to Hospice of one’s choice. They were instrumental during his difficult time.
His daughter would also like to give a special thank you to Mike and Patty DeStefano for their love, support and extraordinary care for her Dad in these last few weeks.
A guest book is available at www.strunkfuneralhome.com.