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Robert DeFazio Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Robert DeFazio
Ssg England
November 22, 2018
I still sit back and remember our time in AIT we where roommates for this 12 weeks in red stone ,Alabama we had some great times. You'll never be forgotten brother
55B AMMO specialist for life
Lily Zamora
September 12, 2014
Robert was like a brother and is very dificult to said goodbye for this reason i have select to remember him the way he was alive, in my prayers. To me is like we both PCS to diferent duty stations i go at church every 25 of April and for 9 years now the priest give a mass on Roberts name and the is the day i remember the he pass away every other day is like we are on different places and i can talk to him when i pray like i will talk to anyone else on the phone. I apologized for not been able to give my condolence to his family but is difficult to realized that a great friend as Robert who i meet in AIT and got station together in Miesau Germany is no longer here. I know he is with God in a better place and that gives me confort.
Lily Zamora
September 12, 2014
You are always present in the hearts of those you touch with your friendship, we know you are in a better place with angels guiding us in every step we take and keeping us safe. I send you my prayers and thank you for always been there for me and because i can still talk to you and i know you still help me when i need it. You are the best friend even know you are physically away.
April 27, 2014
Hard to believe another year has passed without you - you are not forgotten...
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Charlie Gili
March 31, 2013
Hello,
We would like to express our deepest condolences and also to let the Defazio Family know that we recently sent Care Packages to American troops in the war zones. Each box carried a dedication sheet that includes the name, service information and photo of your loved one. We recognize that this is a humble tribute, but we wanted you to know that it is heartfelt and made possible by thousands of like-minded individuals in the youth hockey community and beyond. We will not forget. May God Bless you and keep you strong.
Sincerely,
Charlie Gili & Family
On Behalf of the US Hockey Players Support Our Troops Campaign
October 24, 2012
In memory of Robert DeFazio.
Peggy Childers
May 10, 2012
April 24, 2012
To the family and friends of Spc. Robert W. Defazio:
Always remembering Robert. "Some gave all."
February 1, 2012
Our thanks & Prayers for you Ultimate Sacrifice for Us all. Keeping you & your loved ones & ALL Service Members in prayer & heart each day. May His PErpetual Light SHine UPon you forever & Comfort you family. AMEN
Peggy Childers
April 24, 2011
To the family and friends of Spc. Robert W. Defazio:
Please accept my remembrance of Robert on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
Peggy Childers
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
L Neal
April 3, 2011
To the family of Spc. Robert W. DeFazio:
Please know that just as your loved one remains in your hearts and minds; his sacrifice, and that of your family, remains with the people he died defending. Words cannot express the gratitude we feel for his bravery and selflessness, or the heartache we feel for your loss. God bless and keep you always.
April 29, 2010
I still think of you often. I still wonder where our lives would have taken us if you were still alive. I still cry when I think back to the day i got the phone call that told me of your death. 5 years seemed to go by so slow Rob. We miss you and love you so much!
April 26, 2010
You have been in my thoughts so much this past week. When I see the violets in bloom, I think of you because I remember them in the lawn at the funeral home. You are remembered.
Jean Crooker
April 25, 2010
Its hard to believe that its been 5 years since Robert passed away, he is missed so much. Robert we think of you every day and your in our hearts always along with your family. We love you Robert.
Love the Crooker Clan
Peggy Childers
April 24, 2010
To the family and friends of Spc. Robert W. Defazio:
Remembering Robert on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
March 17, 2010
Wow so next month is 5 years since you were taken from us. Not a day goes by when I dont think of you. I miss you so much and my heart aches for you. I cant wait till the day we meet again. Thank you for being my hero and my angel
Love you
Jeff Gurecki
July 13, 2009
I was the first to sign this guest book and have yet to since. It is tuff thinking about all the good times me and rob had. All we really did was hang out in his basement and play video games. But it was awesome cause just being around him was fun. I miss him alot and wish he was still here to hang and play video games with.
Kenna Larra
June 30, 2009
”Honor and Remember” - “Project Compassion” We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,600 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com . If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely and Respectfully,
Kenna
May 6, 2009
In some ways, your death in 2005 seems so long ago. It still haunts me. I think of you more often than anyone can imagine and I wish I could hug you once again.
Jenni Schmutz-Curran
May 3, 2009
Another year goes by and we miss you just as much as we ever have. Thank you soldier.
Peggy Childers
April 24, 2009
To the family of Spc. Robert W. Defazio:
Robert gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
May 3, 2008
You are remembered and respected. Thank you Spc Defazio!
Jenni Schmutz-Curran
April 26, 2008
Rob was one of the most caring guys I have ever known. While it has been 3 years since his death, it still hurts very much. I often think about Rob in the quiet moments...like when a song comes on, on the way to work and remember the summer of 99, Santapogue, 15th ave... and I remember that truly, the good do die young.
You will never be forgotten DeFaz!
In Memory of Robert ( Debra Estep )
April 24, 2008
Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers today.
The Wind on The Downs
“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”
(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )
Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….
“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”
I did not know Robert, but I am remembering on
this day he gave his all.
He is my hero.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
The Other Side
i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.
can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.
i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side
the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)
Sincerely,
Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom and MIL
Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55
The Other Side
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol
August 7, 2007
I don't pretend to know what to say or do that would bring you peace in your time of sorrow, but I will offer my heart felt condolences. I also offer you my prayers that in time the pain will easy and the memories of your HERO will carry you through each day and night. I want to thank your HERO, for his/her selfless act of becoming a member of the armed forces, his/her willingness to defend the United States of America, all that we hold sacred and for the sacrifice that will forever be etched in the memories of all those who knew him/her. Though tears can never bring him/her back, we hope that our tears express our gratitude for the sacrifice that he/she made and our sorrow at his/her passing. I believe for every fallen HERO there is a star shining brightly up above to remind us of the precious gift we were given.
Your mission on earth is complete and you are now a member of GOD’s Heavenly armed forces. Stand down brave warrior and take your rightful place in Heaven with all the HEROES who have passed before.
I made a special promise to LE RON A. WILSON (KIA on 07/06/07) on the day he was laid to rest as I touched his coffin, that I would never forget him nor would I forget those that gave their lives for our country before him, with him and after him and so when I came across www.legacy.com, I thought what a great way to keep my promise to Le Ron, so I will continue to leave tributes in each guest book until the day there is no longer the need to leave these tributes to a FALLEN HERO.
REST IN PEACE, HERO, YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!
PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)
July 16, 2007
Thank you for the sacrifice made by Spc Defazio and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!
Jenni Schmutz-Curran
May 30, 2007
Always in our hearts! We miss you Rob!
Gary
May 3, 2007
A true American hero.God bless Robert and his family.
April 24, 2007
I can't believe how fast time flies. It seems like only yesterday you were taking from us. Not a day goes by that I dont think of you. My heart still aches thinking of you. I will always have a special place in my heart for you. I love you!
Garnet Jenkins
April 23, 2007
In tribute to Spc. Robert W. Defazio, with a Multitude of Thanks, for this Brave Young Soldier's Courage, Dedication and Service to our Country and for Freedom.
May Robert Rest Safely, in God's Loving Care and may the Peace of God continue to be with the Defazio family.
Those who Made these Sacrifices, So Many and So Young, shall Never Be Forgotten, my brother among them. Killed in action in Vietnam in 1967.
"I will lift up my eyes to the hills- from whence comes my help?
My help comes from the Lord, Who made heaven and earth."
~ Psalm 121:1-2 ~
I am sincerely hoping that you continue to feel the thoughts of caring and support that surround you each day, as this Country Remembers Someone Very Precious to you, who is a Hero to all of us.
I am So Deeply Sorry for your loss.
ROBYN GARSIDE
August 12, 2006
MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS. I HAVE JUST LEARNED OF YOUR GREAT LOSS AND WISH TO EXPRESS MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES. PLEASE KNOW THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE OUT HERE WHO DO CARE AND YOUR HERO WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. HOLD TIGHT TO YOUR TREASURED MEMORIES THAT HIS SPECIAL SMILE MAY CONTINUE TO SHINE ON. I PRAY THAT PEACE WILL FIND YOU ALL SOMEDAY. STAY STRONG AND GODSPEED. SEMPER FI
A PROUD MARINE MOM
July 26, 2006
It has been more than a year, and I can't stop thinking hes coming home soon. I see him in my dreams. My heart feels empty and not whole when you left Robert you took a piece of me with you. I know they say time makes it easier but it does not. You were taking away at such a young age. I know your looking down on all of us, but a big part of me wishes you were here.
Kim Roeth
May 24, 2006
my reguards to the defazio family. Rob was a quiet guy in and out of school i remenber the days when we would go to santapauge and play baseball with all the guys and then go back to the house and hang out we will be miss very much
Laura Painter - Barratta
April 30, 2006
No, nothing makes the loss easier. As I watched the unit return on Tuesday, April 4th , from Afghanistan, I couldn't help but hold back tears, as I knew not everyone was back. I still miss him and he is still alive in memories, im my mind and my heart. A poem I wrote, says it almost perfectly :
He left this world in pain and fear
He left the ones he once held dear.
He walked those stairs, it took so long
He is now where he belongs.
He is happy in that other world
Although it's sad, it's true.
But just because he left your side,
Does not mean he left you.
He's happy now , he's not in pain.
He lived his life until the end.
GOD only takes the very best,
And puts their loving hearts to rest.
We still miss him, and there aren't too many stories or memories that I have that don't have him in it.
Chrisopher Noth
April 27, 2006
Time does not make it easier but as long as you keep in your heart he will never be gone.
Jenni Schmutz-Curran
April 10, 2006
In just 2 weeks, it will be a year since Rob has been gone. I just wanted to keep this alive as he will never be forgotten.
brad reda
October 8, 2005
my prayers are sent out to you
Nichole Chartier
July 25, 2005
I met Robert when he arrived at Miesau a couple years ago. He quickly became one of my best friends, mostly because of his great sense of humor. We had so many great times, drinking, watching Family Guy, and just hanging out in the barracks. He was a hard worker and a great soldier. I wish I had stayed in the Army and been there by his side. No one should have to die so young, especially someone so brave and strong.
When I heard about his death I cried for so long. His was the first name on the casualty lists that I knew. It was the first time that I could put a face to a name, and it made everything so much more real. It's been 3 months now, and it still hurts so much to think about it.
I hope everyone else is trying their best to stay safe overseas, whether in Iraq or Afghanistan. I also hope that Robert's death was not in vain.
God Bless.
Sarah Conway
June 14, 2005
Robert was a great guy. Very giving and careing. He was always there with a joke in school. He will be missed.
Keishia Hilliard
May 17, 2005
I was deeply saddened when I heard the news about Spc Defazio. I was once a member of 23rd ord co and he was in my mag. I would describe him as kind hearted and had such a wonderful personality. I would like to send out my condolences to his family and may god bless you all.
Carissa Matzen
May 11, 2005
May his angel rest in heaven. From one service member to another, you will never be forgotton. God Bless the DeFazio family.
Jessica L
May 9, 2005
I have known Robert my whole life. He was one of my best friends. We grew up next door to each other. He always used to come over and just sit on the couch sometimes he wouldn't even talk for hours. Just having him there was a great feeling. When he told me he joined the army I was sad. But I knew he wanted a better life for himself and the army to him was the way to do it. When my mom told me Robert was killed I could not believe it. I will also feel that a part of me is gone. He was my friend now hes my hero and guardian angel. I love you Robert and will miss you so much.
Elizabeth Voigt
May 5, 2005
When I heard news that Rob had died, I was devastated. Rob had an amazing personality which made you drawn to him. I remember all the times I spent with him and I will cherish those memories forever. Thank you Rob for being, not only a hero to America, but also a hero to me. My deepest condolences go out to all of Rob's family and friends. You are forever in my thoughts and prayers.
Eileen and Bill Jeker
May 4, 2005
You don't know us but we wanted to extend our deepest sympathy to the family of another american hero. His sacrifice allows us the freedom we so cherish and are so grateful for. God bless you all.
Robert DeFazio
May 4, 2005
I am extremely sympathetic for Robert's family. I know how this must feel, having a loved one pass away...
Jessica Kastner
May 3, 2005
My deepest sympathy goes out to Robs family. I went to school with Rob and we rode the same bus..I just cant believe that hes gone. May god bless his family.. your in my thoughts and prayers.
Chucky Pipia
May 3, 2005
Words can't express how I feel. My deepest sympathy to the Defazio Family.
Alicia Rosado
May 3, 2005
My deepest condolences to Rob's family. I went to school with Rob and he was a great friend to me. He always made people laugh and cared about everyone. When he came to my sweet 16, he was absolutely right when he signed my guestbook "Robert, the Cool Guy". We love you Rob and thank you for fighting for us. May God Bless you.
Brian Glacy
May 3, 2005
I grew up with rob but we didnt become good friends until his 10 grade. Weather it was playing baseball, hockey, football, backyard wrestling or watching the Yankees & Giants he was one of my best friends. When he told me he enrolled in the army, i was happy for him but at the same time scared. its what he wanted and im glad it made him happy. We'll always love you and your dry humor. Take it easy, ill see u on the other side.
Christopher Banks
May 2, 2005
Robert and I grew up together through jr. high and high school. We took the same bus and even had the same s.s. classes. I will miss his aggressive playfulness he brought to our close 12th st crew as young teenagers. He is soft spoken and one of the finer men I've ever known. He will be remembered and loved by all who really know him. God bless him and all of his family.
John Frevele
May 2, 2005
Rob was just a great friend. He didnt even have to speak to make you laugh. My regards to the entire family! NEVER FORGOTTEN!
Jean Crooker
May 2, 2005
What can be said about someone who did what they believed in? Robert was truly an American Hero. He frought for what he believed in inspite of what anyone else thought. I will always remember his dry humor that made me laugh all the time. Robert touched many lifes in his short life span and I am glad my life was one of them. To the whole DeFazio family I give you my love and prayers. Robert you died a HERO and you will be missed greatly. Heaven got a woderful angel the day God took you, but we all lost a true friend. We will remember you always. May God Bless you and your family.
Katie Gaffney
May 1, 2005
I knew Rob through most of my friends. He was a great person, he fought for a country and our freedom and I think that's one of the most wonderful, honorable things you can do in life..
Kerri Luttmann
May 1, 2005
Our sympathy goes out to the DeFazio family. We will say a prayer for the whole family, especially Jennifer. We know how close you were to your brother and we cannot send anymore than our deepest regrets.
Love Always, Kerri and Brad
Peggy Chambers
May 1, 2005
I thank you for fighting for our country. I'm so sorry you had to give the ultimate sacrifice. You will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you, your family, and your friends.
Tommy Walton
May 1, 2005
My regards to the Defazio Family and to Mike and Jen. I feel for the family. The military salutes him for all he as done. Tommy Walton USAF
Kris Cody
May 1, 2005
In memory of Rob,
it is hard to believe that someone i went to school with, friends passed away. he stood up for what he believed in. he wanted to help our country, and he did. he came from a loving family. he was a great friend someone to talk to when feeling down always made people laugh.
we are going to miss you
Kevin, Anne-Marie, Kelly, Casey, and Taylor Lehmann
May 1, 2005
We are proud to have known Robert, whose heroics allow us to live our lives in the American Way, In Freedom!
Our hearts and support go out to all our relatives of the DeFazio family. God Bless.
Elisa Hinken
May 1, 2005
My God rest his soul and may He provide comfort to his family at this difficult time. The ultimate sacrifice in the protection of our great country is painful for everyone, but his service was valiant and Robert shall be remembered by those he protected. The Hinken Family
Jenni Schmutz-Curran
April 30, 2005
People always say it couldn't have happened to a better person, but it is so right this time. I've known Rob since the 3rd grade, and although I haven't seen him in probably about 2 years, it breaks my heart to hear of this. My heart goes out to the family. Rob, you will never be forgotten, god bless you.
Susan Johnson
April 30, 2005
Thank you brave soldier for your service to this country. I am humbled and deeply grateful for you. May God bless your family at this time and bring them peace and comfort.
tom crooker
April 29, 2005
rob was like a brother to me we would always have fun he was really funny n would alway make you happy we would alway talk about the yankees or wrestling im really going to miss u robert
Matthew Pilewski
April 29, 2005
Rob was a great friend, I still can't believe it. Defaz maybe gone but he will always be one of my best friends. To his parents, brothers and sister I offer my sincerest condolences.
April 29, 2005
Check out the photo gallery. I uploaded a couple of pictures of SPC Defazio, the way he is rememberd here, in Miesau
Deb Kearney Miller
April 29, 2005
I never met Robert, but I knew his Dad as a kid - our families spent a lot of time together. I met his mom when she & Michael, his dad, were first going out. My heart breaks for his parents, Michael & Jeanine, his brothers & sisters, his grandparents, Tony & Reva. I am honored to be able to say that I knew the family of this man who so proudly & gladly served his country. It is obvious that he deeply touched the souls of his family & friends. My thoughts & prayers are with you all.
23rd Ord Co Halloween Party 2004
April 29, 2005
23rd Ord Co Halloween Party 2004 - Rob is the one with the budweiser cans...
April 29, 2005
Laura Painter
April 29, 2005
I worked with Rob, very closely. We've been friends since he arrived in the Unit over 2 years ago. I miss him so much. It hasn't quite sunk in yet that he will not be returning from afghanistan with the rest of the unit. My heart goes out to his family. He was a wonderful guy. If you need anything, feel free to write.
PFC Richard Scott
April 29, 2005
Defazio was a good friend and a good Soldier to work along side with. I will miss him greatly.
Nancy Lehmann
April 28, 2005
It has been so long since I had seen Robert. I remember babysitting him, it seems like just yesterday. His family and friends will miss him.
Michele Gargiulo
April 28, 2005
Robert was like a brother to me, he was such a funny little boy growing up, & ALWAYS made me laugh. It hard to believe he's gone.
Robert, I love you and you will be missed. You are and always will be in my heart a Hero.
Stephanie,Scott & Brianna Seibert
April 28, 2005
Saying goodbye to Robert to me is like saying goodbye to a brother. I watched him grow from a cute little boy to a heroic young man. We are very proud of him for serving our country and for being so brave. You will always be a hero in my eyes. Robert will be missed greatly. My prayers are with you and your family forever.
Gene & Karen Lehmann
April 27, 2005
Your death at such a young age is difficult to grasp. We know this is what you chose to do and you death in the service of your country is comendable. You will be missed by friends and family.
Debbie Spatafora
April 27, 2005
Thank you for fighting for our country. You are our hero. ALl my sympathy to the Defazio family, you are wonderful people. Robert will be missed very much. I didnt quite know him too well but i know the rest of you and I know he is as wonderful as all of you are.
Jennifer Miller
April 27, 2005
I'm shocked to know that someone I went to school with died in Iraq. I knew Robert since the second grade. He was really funny at times and could really make me laugh the way he would say hello.
Robert Eccleston
April 27, 2005
Rob was a great person to be around he always made me laugh. Rob's a very strong person and a hero for fighting for our country and he's going to be missed.
Jeffrey Gurecki
April 27, 2005
Rob was a great friend and I will miss him alot it still hasent really sunk in yet still in a state of shock. He will always be missed and will be a friend and a hero in my life forever. YOU WILL ALWAYS BE MISSED ROB. Thanks for the good times.
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