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Robert Greenberger Obituary

GREENBERGER Robert E. Greenberger, Jr. (Robbie), age 20 of Fairfield, beloved son of Robert E. and Deborah (Upton) Greenberger, passed away peacefully Thursday, August 14, 2008 at Yale-New Haven Children's Hospital following a courageous battle with Leukemia. Born in Lynbrook, N.Y., April 8, 1988, Robbie had been a Fairfield resident for the last 16 years. He was a graduate of Fairfield Ludlowe High School. As a parishioner of Saint Pius X Church, Robbie was an altar server, a member of the choir and volunteered as a CCD instructor. He loved spending time mentoring children, and during his illness and the numerous stays in the hospital with many other children, he developed a desire to pursue a career as a child care specialist. Robbie enjoyed volunteering at the Community Theater in Fairfield and was an active participant in the science fiction fan community. Survivors in addition to his loving parents include a beloved sister, Kathleen M. Greenberger of Columbia, Md.; maternal grandmother, Gladys Upton of Sebastian, Fla.; paternal grandmother, Joan B. Greenberger of Boynton Beach, Fla.; and several aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, August 18, 2008 at 1 p.m. meeting DIRECTLY at Saint Pius X Church, 834 Brookside Drive, Fairfield. Interment will be private at Oak Lawn Cemetery, Fairfield. Friends may greet the family Sunday from 3 to 5 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. in the Spear-Miller Funeral Home, 39 South Benson Road., Fairfield. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Robbie's memory may be made to The Tommy Fund for Childhood Cancer, Yale-New Haven Children's Hospital, 20 York Street, New Haven, CT 06511-3202 (www.tommyfund.org). For information or to offer an online condolence, please visit www.spearmillerfuneralhome.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Connecticut Post from Aug. 16 to Aug. 17, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Greenberger

Not sure what to say?





Ann Watkins

August 29, 2008

Dear Bob, Deb and Kate,
We were all blessed to have known him during his short life. My heart goes out to you and I will keep you in my prayers.
with heartfelt condolences,
Ann and all the Watkins

Marsha V.

August 26, 2008

For Deb and Family,

I am so sorry to hear of Robbie's passing; he has gone from life here to Life Everlasting in Heaven.

There are not enough words in the world that can express the sorrow I have for you all.

God is with you. His loving arms embrace and give Holy comfort. I pray you will find peace through His love for you.

Ron Marz and Family

August 22, 2008

I know nothing that I or anyone else can say will make sense of out this, or make it better. But know that our thoughts and prayers and deepest sympathies go out to you. The world is a poorer place without Robbie, but we are all the better for having known him.

Jim Travers

August 21, 2008

My sincerest condolences to all the Greenbergers. Bob: you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers...God Speed to Robbie.

Francesca D'Angelo

August 20, 2008

Deb, Bob, Katie
So sorry to hear the tragic news!
I'm in shock and have no words to express my feelings. My heart goes out to all of you.

God Bless!

John Wilson

August 20, 2008

Dear Friends Bob and family,
For all the years I have known you and seen your little ones grow before my eyes, never did I conceive that either one would pass before I did. We know in our minds that such things can happen, but when it does, the heart feels the emptiness that such a lovely person's passing has created. To borrow from a fellow writer, he can still be found in the City At The Edge of Forever. We will all live there in our own time. All my heartfelt condolences and sympathies,

Cheri Rosen

August 20, 2008

I didn't know Robbie, per se, though I have watched him grow up at both Shoreleave and Farpoint conventions. He was a shining light, and will be missed. My condolences.

Susan Ponton

August 19, 2008

Although I had just met Robbie and his parents. I feel a great loss of such a young man. I'm so glad that Special Wishes was able to bring a little happiness to him while he was in the hospital. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time. Had I known sooner, I would have been at the services. May God bless you.

Sam Perce, Elissa Valentin, & Corey Franzen

August 19, 2008

Dear Greenberger Family,
Although we were only Freshman working at the Community Theater when we first met Robbie, he always treated us like all his other friends, even though he was a Junior. There was never time when we were with him and not laughing. Like at his 18th Birthday party at the theater watching the Rocky Horror Picture Show. We didn't see eachother often, but were always able to pick up where we left off.
He will always be in our hearts.

Rahadyan Sastrowardoyo

August 19, 2008

May Robbie's soul be received by heaven and may his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.

Syndee Barwick

August 19, 2008

Dear Bob and family:

I am so sorry for the loss of Robbie.
May the beautiful memories of his life fill you with light and happiness. Love never dies; may it continue to comfort you, wrap you in its warm wings and be your steadfast companion until you all meet again on the journey.

Much love and blessings to you,
Syndee B.
DC Comics

Heather & Jeff Dean

August 18, 2008

Dear Bob, Deb and Katie,

We are so sorry for your loss. Peace be with you.

NED

August 18, 2008

I came to know how special your son and brother was through my daughter who works in Child Life at Yale-New Haven, 7 West. I have held you all in prayer, as well as the staff at YNH who supported you. As Robbie rests in the embrace of God, may memories bring you some measure of comfort.

Patrick Sponaugle

August 18, 2008

At one of the Maryland science fiction conventions probably a decade ago, Bob asked my buddy Dan and I if Robbie could work the evening's masquerade with us. For years, Dan and I had worked as backstage ninjas at convention masquerades, helping people on and off stage and wrangling props. Robbie had taken an interest in what we had been doing, and came to the convention with his own ninja outfit in the hopes of being part of the team.

Of course we agreed, and of course we had a blast. Robbie was fifty gallons of enthusiasm and energy in a pint sized container. He was hilarious and fun, smart and snarky. He pitched in with 100%, and possessed more self-confidence than most Marine battalions.

As the years followed while attending conventions I'd look forward to seeing Robbie, not just for the entertainment value of his
bright personality, but to marvel in shock of how fast the little boy I had been introduced to was seemingly launching into adulthood. Suddenly, I no longer needed to look down to meet his gaze, and just as suddenly, I had to look up.

I will always remember his unceasing charm and shining spirit. Deepest and sincerest condolences to Bob, Deb, and Kate from myself, my wife Lisa, and my daughter Grace (who spent a fair amount of hers toddlerhood upside-down and laughing in Robbie's arms). May God bless you and keep you.

Mary Aileen Buss

August 18, 2008

I am sorry for your loss. Robbie was special. The world is a poorer place for his lack.

Kristi Toole

August 18, 2008

I was really sad to hear about Robbie. My prayers go out to your family. I worked with Robbie for 2 years at the Hunt Club. He was always full of energy and life, and the kids loved him. He made work enjoyable for everybody, including me and I feel very blessed to have worked with him. When I get back to school, I will light a candle for him in the Sacred Heart Basilica at the University of Notre Dame.

Janice Walker

August 18, 2008

"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted."
—Matthew 5:4

Dearest Bob and family,

I just received news of the loss of your loved one and want to extend my heartfelt condolences. As Christians, we believe that we will be reunited with our loved ones again. Although the sorrow is great right now, please know that God will provide comfort in many ways.

May your memories of Robbie put a smile in your hearts,

Janice Walker
DC Comics

Athena Davis

August 18, 2008

Robbie was a truly wonderful person. I am aware that we all know it but it can not be said enough. He wasn't done fighting yet but I am so happy he left us peacefully. He will be SORELY missed. I know that his attitude in a desperate time will give me and others something to push for in our own times of need. I am so sorry to Mr. and Mrs. Greenberger and Katie, we all loved him, and still do.

Jan Hollerbach

August 18, 2008

Dear Deb, Bob and Katie,

It was a real blessing to get to know Robbie in the St. Pius X choir. What a wonderful human being God sent us in your son. He will be greatly missed.

Love,
Jan

Lateef Ade Williams

August 18, 2008

I'm doubly sorry to learn of Robbie's passing and to have learned of it after the services have concluded. I haven't seen Robbie in years but fondly remember him running around the hallways of DC and being impressed by his imagination and good nature.... in other words, he came from good stock. It is my hope that the knowlege that your family has positively touched so many lives and that we're all pulling for you now will hopefully give you a touch of comfort.

Heather Ordover

August 17, 2008

Deb, Katie, and Bob (who I 'know' through your blog),
It might seem odd to the outside world to know that I'm sitting here in Tucson, Arizona with tears streaming down my face. I doubt it will seem that odd to you. Deb and Katie, you two are part of my podcast world, both through email and interviews and as a consequence, Robbie's illness and passing have affected me in ways I certainly didn't expect. I never even got to interview him on Mary Shelley. As a teacher and a mother, the thought of losing another bright light in this often troubled world...well...
I am so, so sorry for your loss. You have been in my thoughts and prayers for months and you will continue to be there for a long time to come.
I wish you peace.
With much (if long-distance) love,
Heather Ordover

Esther Ready

August 17, 2008

Bob and family,
My heart goes out to all of you. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Esther Ready and family

Robert Longo

August 17, 2008

Bob,

My deepest sympathies on Robbie's passing.

He is w/God now & free from disease & pain.

While I cannot know exactly how you feel I can say I have been there & lost friends to this disease.

Please call me ANYtime if want or need to talk.

Angela Armstrong

August 17, 2008

August 17, 2008
Dear Deb, Bob & Katie: I have no words except to say how much I love Robbie and prayed for him to recover. I know he is with the Good Lord in Paradise. My prayers go with you all now. Robbie was like one of my own grandkids - such a good kid. I will miss him.

Love, Angie Armstrong

THOMAS ROWELL

August 17, 2008

my condolences to BOB and Family
from all of us at The Fairfield Cinemas

Steve, Renee, Ethan and Christian Wilson

August 17, 2008

Robbie's friendship and enthusiasm made our corner of the world a better place. We thank God for the gift of his presence in our lives. That gift, like Robbie's spirit, will live on.

Bob, Deb and Kate, our prayers and our love are with you.

Katrina Sharp

August 17, 2008

Dearest Deb, Bob, & Kate,
May angels surround you during this time, and God be with you all.

You are surrounded by such loving friends and family, which will help to get you through this time. You have a special place in our hearts. I'll remember my visit with your parents here in Alaska, which has always given me another special heartlink to you. Know you're in my thoughts & prayers.

Sharon (Smap) Palmer

August 17, 2008

Robbie was an old soul with wisdom and compassion beyond his age. He crammed a lot into his few years on this Earth and brightened the lives of everyone who knew him. I shall miss seeing him at the conventions. My heart goes out to you at this sad, sad time for you, and we all, have lost a remarkable young man.

Barbara Fischer

August 17, 2008

The Lord reached out his hand and said come be with me and I will give you peace. Robbie is at peace now and the Blessed Mother has welcomed him with open arms. May God comfort Deb, Bob and Katy

Judi Cardello

August 17, 2008

My daughter had the wonderful pleasure of having Robbie as her catechism teacher for part of last year. She adored him. He was a wonderful young man and made a great impression on her. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.

The Staff of Spear-Miller Funeral Home

August 17, 2008

Offering our deepest condolences during this time.

Roo Bosco

August 16, 2008

Mr. and Mrs. Greenberger and Kate,
I cannot find words to express something you already know - what an amazing person Robbie was and that he was the most incredible gift you could have given the world, no matter for how short a time. I will forever be a better person, and a happier person for all the time I have spent with him. I could never have asked for a better friend. My heart goes out to you.

Mairéad Keenan

August 16, 2008

While I never personally met Robbie, I know of him through his Uncle Jeff and of course through the remarkable tributes I’ve read. For such a young man he has left a sizeable impression on so many people. I'm personally impressed by his strong character, his dedication to his faith, his volunteer work and his aspirations to help others.

I extend my deepest sympathy to Robbie’s parents, sister, extended family and friends.

Eternal rest Robbie.

Cindy, Lance & Greg Woods

August 16, 2008

There are no words to express our sorrow at Robbie's passing. He was an amazing soul whose life on this earth was far too short. The convention hallways will not be the same without the force of nature that was Robbie Greenberger.

Marina Olesen

August 16, 2008

I can't think of anything to say that will really comfort, except that I know Robbie was truly loved by everyone. We were blessed to ever get to meet him and he was a great friend. My family and I miss him more than we can imagine. Constantly during the day there are things that remind us of him and although they hurt now they also make me smile.
I'm so sorry he's gone.

You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Ariel David

August 16, 2008

I don't know what to say, and I think I never will. Robbie was such a great person and it was an honor to be his friend. I like many will miss him a lot. I wish my condolences to the entire family.

Kelley Bachard

August 16, 2008

Robbie was an amazing person to be around. As a classmate he always made me laugh and explained all the science stuff to me that i didnt understand...he will be greatly missed and my condolences go out to his family

Ray, Bonnie, Steve, and Alex Russolillo

August 16, 2008

Bob, Deb & Kate -

Robbie's all-too-brief life was a blessing to those who knew and loved him. We hope and pray that you find peace and comfort in his memory.

Lea Hernandez

August 16, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with Robbie's family and friends.

Stephen & Ann Lesnik

August 16, 2008

Deb, Bob, and Kate,

I always got a kick out of being around Robbie. He was an energetic force, and one that will be missed. The corridors of convention spaces will be a little emptier, but our memory of him will keep his humor and smile with us forever.

Our deepest sympathies and our love to you all.

Brigitte

August 16, 2008

It was a pleasure to meet Robbie, I will miss him even though his brave heart and incredible smile does not seem so far away.

His good natured, kindness to all the friends he made on 7 West always made me proud. No matter what age he made time for a game of cards with them.

Nils Anderson

August 16, 2008

Greenberger family,
Please accept my personal condolences as well as the deepest condolences from the entire class of 2006 at Fairfield Ludlowe High School. Losing Robbie so soon has hurt all of us. He will be missed by the entire class. Our prayers are with you in this time of need.

Nils Anderson
President of Class of 2006

Kerry Ward

August 16, 2008

Robbie E Greenberger - Nine Years Old
I remember Mom (Deb) and Dad (Bob) said, that:
Robbie can talk up a storm, he’s very charming and full of chivalries and grand sentiment
At first I wasn’t sure, but I can assure you there was 100% truth, in everything they said and in everything they said, they meant
So, here I speak of my experience, which begins with mathematics
Where Robbie taught me the phrase
8 x 8 is 64, I ate and I ate, til I was sick to the floor
It took my powers of persuasion to get his attention
But the timer on the microwave was my saviour!
For one minute is all it took, for him to learn his times table once more
Spelling, well there was another task together we mastered
He’d come home and his results were good, time well spent is what I thought
School presentation, “my special person”, that was me
A lump in my throat, I was proud
Just how honoured could I be?
Kate and me and Robbie too, we went skiing
Frustration set in, but I think they both came out winning
Mom claimed Robbie was adorable, how right she was
Being their nanny, was my job
In the summer holidays, swimming each day
It wore thin, but Robbie and Kate’s enthusiasm was always sure to win
Monopoly at 7 am, you gotta be kiddin!??? That caused me stress
Even so, I loved Robbie, cuz his energy was ever present
In school vacation, he was up by 6.30
I turned over in my bed and thought, just another minute....pleeeassse
Homework, huh? So what’s in it for him?
Laugh out loud, stars and rewards, but he took some convincing!
My touch typing skills, he took advantage of those :-)
I was typing his stories for school, while he dictated his prose
He made me smile, and warmness between us rose
To Jennings beach we went once, and we had so much fun?!
Playground, swings and slide
With Robbie and Kate, we could be there all night
Karate, he always came out smilin’
Had a lovely time with Robbie and Kate, when it snowed at the break of dawn, of course
I got up and threw snowballs and helped make a snowman, with no remorse
PT Barnum circus that’s where we were sent!
We had fun, camels, huge elephants erecting a tent
Big they were, I saved our lives from being trampled, or maybe I exaggerate!
Story time was a pleasure, batman was in the main
However, my storytelling talent was a little lame
Negotiation, Robbie was smart, there was no getting past him
He was questioning and rightly so
On many an occasion he was sure to win!
Chores, he hated ‘em, but don’t we all
Made me realise how similar to him I was for sure
Beanie babies, I have them here, inspired by Kate and Robbie, whom I hold dear
Hugs to you Kate, to Deb and Bob and just to let you know
I have the very fondest memories of Robbie, and I love you all
I too, Deb and Bob, would have preserved him in amber for all eternity
For my experience being your nanny was challenging, and oh so rewarding, an honour you know!
I’m sorry for you that Robbie had to leave us so
Love and hugs always
Kerry (Nanny, Derbyshire, England, UK Sept 1997-Oct 1998)

Sharon VanBlarcom

August 16, 2008

Robbie's spirit and talent will be greatly missed. My thoughts, love and prayers are with with all of you.

Tony & Kathy Collett

August 16, 2008

I just wanted to add our condolences.

Mike & Elizabeth Flynn

August 16, 2008

The size of this tragedy is huge, but is happily exceeded by the quality of the years shared with Robbie and the mutual devotion of family and friends. We will be there in spirit at the service, and will continue to be with you -- as Robbie doubtless will, in spirit -- in the coming years.

Dorsey Vengrouskie

August 16, 2008

There are no words. Robbie, travel safely into the future. Catch up with my sister Jo, she will make you laugh.

Janet Banks-Mott

August 16, 2008

Dear Deb, Bob and Katie,
We are deeply saddened to hear of Robbie's passing. Our thoughts and prayers will continue to be with you.
Janet, Peter, Anna and Emily Mott

Andy Marinkovich

August 16, 2008

My sincere condolences to the Greenberger family on this very sad news.

Peggi Yacovissi

August 16, 2008

My sincere sympathy to all of Robbie's family. May God bring you peace.

Jody Jones

August 16, 2008

I am writing for Janet Buckwalter, who is unable at this time to get to a computer. She is deeply saddened at the passing of your dear Robbie. She and I both offer our deepest sympathy to you and to all who knew him.

Robyn Medina (Chantals Mom)

August 16, 2008

Greenberger Family,
I had the pleasure of meeting Robbie this St. Patricks Day. Our family made him an honorary "Irishman". His ecclectic soul left an impression on everyone that evening, from his Rock Band skills to his quirky jokes, through it all with a BIG smile on his face. It will be the little things you remember,the quiet moments,
the smiles, the compassion that Robbie had for others that will make you smile as he will always be with you. Someone so special will never be forgotten.

Karen Sobel

August 16, 2008

So sorry to hear from Dom about Robbie - My prayers are with you at this difficult time.

Susan Waters

August 16, 2008

The Waters Family, Chris, Sue, Danielle & Kelly will miss Robbie very much. Having gone through school with Danielle and participated in Teen Theater with her, she feels his loss deeply but lights up when remembering all the dances he attended with her. Chris and I enjoyed Robbie's sense of humor and down-to-earth personality, we went to sleep when Dani was out hanging around with Robbie and their mutual friends because we knew she was safe and truly having a good time.

Robbie will be missed and thought of by us often. If there is anything we can do now or later just say the word. God bless you all.

Jean Ingham

August 16, 2008

Debbie, my prayers are with you and I've sent angels to console you at this time. Robbie may be gone but he will never be forgotten.
love
Jean Ingham

sarah (picu)

August 16, 2008

Robbie was one of the NICEST, well mannered, genuine young gentlemen I have ever met, sick or not. In the words of Billy Joel, "only the good die young" He will never be forgotten.

Joanne Wortman

August 16, 2008

Deb, Bob, and Kate:

I never had the privilege of meeting Robbie, I only knew him through our mother to mother conversations about our kids. In Deb's shining pride in him, I always sensed that he was a rare treasure for his truly generous spirit--an outward focus that was extraordinary in a young person.

Rest in peace Robbie, after your long battle.

Esther (& Walter) Friesner(Stutzman)

August 16, 2008

Our heartfelt condolences to all of you. Words are inadequate. May the Source of peace send peace to you, and may Robbie's name ever be for a blessing. With love,

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