Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Robert Schimmel Obituary
Schimmel's spokesman, Howard Bragman, says Schimmel died Friday evening in a Phoenix hospital.
Schimmel was a passenger Thursday in a car driven by his 19-year-old daughter Aliyah. Bragman says Aliyah Schimmel swerved to avoid another car and the vehicle she was driving rolled to the side of the freeway. Bragman says she is hospitalized in stable condition.
Robert Schimmel lived in Scottsdale. The 60-year-old comedian has been a frequent guest on "Late Night with Conan O'Brien" and on Howard Stern's radio show. His 2008 memoir, "Cancer on $5 a Day," chronicles his battle with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
Copyright © 2010 The Associated Press
151 Entries
Alan
June 30, 2021
Thanks for all the laughs, Mr. Schimmel. I would rate your show "Unprotected" as one of the top ten standup comedy performances of all time! Your bit about getting a sigmoidoscopy literally had me laughing so hard I was in tears the first time I heard it.
So sorry about all the health problems you had to endure, and of course, your untimely passing. I have great respect for the bravery that you showed in the face of your multiple hardships. You are an inspiration to so many people.
May you rest in peace. You will not be forgotten.
Charles Spencer Wood
December 18, 2017
Mr Schimmel was such an inspiration. I listened to his cds and still today share them with friends and co workers. Whenever he came close we to Kentucky I would try to go see him. I miss him so much and still enjoy his humor
Harry Simpson
September 3, 2014
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Rest Robert, until you hear at dawn,
the low, clear reveille of God.
Thank you for your service to this nation.
How you can show support
Lisa B
September 20, 2010
My candle for you Bob, always thinking of you. Times for me are hard right now as I find myself going through some emotions unknown to me and they scare me. I'm working on emulating the courage you had during your darkest times and know that mine don't even pale in comparison to yours but you inspire me to make the best of my situation and to move forward with gusto. I refuse to go down and be a victim, I'm a fighter and a protector. The strength you had keeps me going, allowing others to know your experience has brought so much fighter-spirit into my life and it will never let me falter. You're still my hero. "There goes my hero, watch him as he goes".
September 15, 2010
I work @ the Monte Carlo Resort in Las Vegas & Robert was our comedian headliner. What a truly-geniune person he was. Always upbeat even during his darkest time-fighting cancer. We will miss him dearly.
Christine Albert
Monte Carlo VIP Services
King Tungsten
September 12, 2010
Bob was one of those truly genuine, authentic people in life who aimed for your heart with his wit and humor, leaving ego and convention behind. His raw talent was an inspiration to all to live each day and never hold back.
Jackie Kolodziejski
September 11, 2010
You were truly a great person. You touched the hearts of many in your writings, in your comic skill and in the true sincerity of your being. You will be greatly missed! May you rest in peace!
September 11, 2010
May God grant you and your Family peace, Robert. Thank you for the Comedy Education.
Jon
September 10, 2010
I worked with Robert for more than 18 years. He was just as funny off stage as on. Class act on stage and off. Smart, intelligent, opinionated, warm, caring, and hysterical. He deserved better luck with his health. I miss him
lee from Cleveland
Larry Ginsberg
September 10, 2010
On this day of my fourth Wedding Anniversary I found out about Bob's passing. It has put a damper on my day, but Bob's Chutzbah to get passed things will get me through this sad news. I thank Howard Stern for allowing me to know the fantastic comedic skills of Bob. It is terribe that we all morn Bob when there was so much more for him to deliver. Rest in Peace Bob - You are missed.
Patricia Taylor
September 10, 2010
Mr. Schimmel,
Gave joy and hope to those of us that has battle cancer or still fighting to hang on. His brillant smile and hope of encouragement will be avoid for the people that he has touched. My prayers
are with his family and rest assure he is in heaven making the rest of the "Angels
smile. Patricia Taylor, Fayetteville North Carolina
Matt C
September 10, 2010
There is not a single comedian that has ever made me laugh harder and louder than you. You will be greatly missed Robert, God Bless.
Paula Serafini
September 10, 2010
I saw an HBO special with Robert Schimmel about 7 years ago...I laughed until I cried. I became a fan then. As funny as his show was...it was also so very heart felt. His outlook on life with so much tragedy under his belt; he spoke of it with such grace and dignity. I thought he was a very funny and talented man but what I really liked was him as a person. It makes me so sad that his life had to end in such a tragic way when he fought so hard to stay here. Robert Schimmel will be greatly missed by so many but not more then by his family. It's amazing the affect one man can have on so many lives. My deepest sympathy to his family. Most of all to his children...his legacy
Erin Neathery
September 10, 2010
Bob was a unique voice, a fountain of fun and a little bit of light went out of the world with him. Godspeed on your wonderous journey, Bob! Sending prayers and love to the entire Schimmel family.
Chad Johnston
September 9, 2010
May the Lord take you in to his kingdom and hold and comfort you for eternity Bob.. you were one of my favorite comedians and you will be missed greatly by everyone.. Rest in Peace man, you did great in this life while we had you with us :) See you soon, but hopefully not too soon :)
September 8, 2010
You were dealt a tough hand throughout your life, but you always managed to find humor. I've been a fan for years and I'm sad to hear of your passing, but I look forward to the day I can see you live in heaven. God bless you and your family in this difficult time.
Joseph Calitri
September 8, 2010
My wife and I initially saw Bob on an HBO special and immediately became sincere fans of his humor and presentation. We later were thrilled to see him in person in Boston. We also saw the television performance where he detailed his battle with cancer and made a statement which is now indelibly etched in my mind, being a cancer survivor myself. He said "I refuse to let this cancer control my life." Great words to live by. God Bless you, Bob!
a warren
September 8, 2010
You made so many people smile, mades lives better, gave hope for true honesty, & will be so missed.
Susan L
September 8, 2010
RIP, you were truly one of the funniest guys I've ever seen. You will be truly missed. I had the pleasure of seeing you in person recently and I'm glad I did. My prayers are with your family at this sad time. Wishing your daughter a speedy recovery.
Michael Bray
September 8, 2010
Robert..you were one of the funniest, ever. I saw you at Proctors in Schenectady and the balcony was shaking you were so funny. Looking over at my friends, and seeing them exploding with laughter..it was great! You will be missed, big time.
Howard Stern
September 8, 2010
You r nice!
Mel and Jeanne Ramsden
September 8, 2010
September 8, 20l0. I met Otto and Betty Schimmel on a cruise ship about 12 years ago and they told us about their son, Robert. A few years later, I heard him on the Bob & Tom show and he mentioned that Steve Spielberg was thinking of doing a movie on his mom's book, "To See You Again." Our sincere condolence to Otto and Betty and their family. Such a tragedy. Jeanne (Mel) Ramsden, Green Bay, WI
RR
September 8, 2010
What a crazy and funny guy...you brought some much laughter into my life but everyone that heard you. Bob you will greatly missed by all of us but especially your family and close friends. Our prayer are with your daughter for a quick recovery and Schimmel family. You were blessed with a great person...God watch over them all..RIP Bob your journey here is over but not ever forgotten...
September 8, 2010
I just loved the guy. Rest in peace..............Nate Menzano,(Palm Beach, Fl.)
Nancy Barrett
September 8, 2010
Thank you, Robert Schimmel, for your strength and humor. During my recent battle with cancer, I picked up your book at the library at Dana-Farber in Boston. Your words and humor helped me to laugh at myself and thrive during my darkest days. My sympathy to your family. Your voice will be missed.
Martin Singer
September 8, 2010
Thank you Robert Schimmel for the joy and laughter.
May Family
September 8, 2010
The first time we ever heard Mr. Schimmel was on the Bob & Tom show. funny to the core, hysterical, yet always acurate with his humor. Rest in Peace Robert and may peace and love be with your beloved family.
Steven Isaacson
September 8, 2010
Bo was such a funny man. All my prayers go to the Shimmel family.
-Steven Isaacson Granby,Conneticut
Jim Nieznanski
September 8, 2010
Robert you were a very funny man you made me laugh, such a tragedy to know how your life ended I enjoyed listening and laughing to your jokes live or on your cd. R.I.P. heaven has received a very funny man.
I pray for your daughter's quick recovery. God Bless your family!
Jim Nieznanski (Aurora, IL)
D Gilcrease
September 8, 2010
Will miss your humorous take on life. Rest in peace in the beyond and make sure everyone just keeps on laughing. You were definately our favorite comedian of all time and you will be sadly missed.
September 8, 2010
Glad to have known you as a very funny comedian. My husband and I saw you in Nashville years ago and know that you will continue to make others laugh. RIP, prayers to your family and friends
R. C.
September 8, 2010
Mr. Schimmel was one of the best. He was an inspiration for cancer survivers and he will be missed greatly. For the Schimmel family, our thoughts and prayers go with you. Rest in Peace Robert.
September 8, 2010
Goodbye to a fellow comic, shared lots of memories. May he rest in peace.
John Rinaudo
September 8, 2010
Robert seemed like a man full of life especially For lving through so many personal tragedies. Now he passes with one final trajedy. He will be missed by his children and family the most, but also by all of his fans. A comic Genius is now at rest.
Paul Callen
September 7, 2010
Great Comedian! Great Outlook on Life! You Will Be Missed!
May, 1970
Debrah Ann Bachrach
September 7, 2010
I have Bob to thank for a lot of wonderful, wild, crazy, and fun times in my life. First he taught me how to rebel and sneak. Man, how my boring world changed. Our speeding down Hungry Hollow Road in the MG & up to the forbidden Three Fold Farms. Staring at clouds and laughing at how YOU saw them. One of my favorite memories was the day we were up in your bedroom; my back was to you checking out your stuff on your dresser. I turned around cuz you were cracking me up to find your back was to me; you were facing the wall standing on your bed performing on your “air-stage” in front of an audience. Then reality set in when your mom yelled “open the door and come down for dinner”. DINNER - at your house. Your mom was an excellent cook. There we were, Sandy sitting at the table like the well mannered young girl; yet Jeff was not as fortunate a sibling. Against your dads warnings you continued cracking jokes at the table and poor Jeff couldn’t stop laughing and got in trouble. Bob finally admitting to me last month that a specific joke you tell on stage IS OUR SECRET. You will always have that special place in my heart. A belated apology to Betty and Otto for when Bob broke into your room (not to look for keys like with Harry); we were innocently looking to steal a kiss in the wrong place and got busted. Bob, you said to me a few weeks ago “It was nice talking to you too. Right now, our talks our like a vacation for me mentally and emotionally, and I never take them for granted. I'm glad we reconnected. Talk to you later. Love, Robert”. Robert, I want you to heal soon, not just for my selfish reasons, but the world is waiting for your humor on this chapter in your life, which will bring more, much needed laughter to all of those who love you. My best to the Schimmel family for this special person to make a speedy recovery. 9/2/10
Boris Nelson
September 7, 2010
May the Lord welcome you as you make Him laugh! You were raw, honest, and correctly funny! You will be missed! RIP Mr. Schimmel...
May Ms. Schimmel recover fast and grow up to become a great woman her father has always known.
Condolences and prayers to the Schimmels.
September 7, 2010
Schimmel, the best of the best...rest Bob, you will never be forgotten...
Herman Tibbs
September 7, 2010
I am very sad because of his passing. His battle with cancer was an inspiration to many and his humor was priceless. He will be missed by many.
G Alexander
September 7, 2010
Death is always sad for our lost of a love one.But the Bible give real hope for our love ones who experience this tradgey. Our Creator give us real hope.The Bible writer Paul offered hope of relief from the last enemy."death. He wrote Death is to be brought to nothing." The last enemy to be abolished is death."(1Corthians 15:26)
Dwana
September 7, 2010
Rest in peace,Robert. You were one of my favorite stand up comics and you always made me laugh. You will be missed by your family,friends and fans. Now you can rest in God's loving arms.
Barry Steinman
September 7, 2010
As a manager at the Tempe Improv, I fondly remember Robert bringing in candy and sweets for the staff each and every time he performed. He was a true MENCH.
Rachel Hawley
September 7, 2010
I am a HUGE Stern fan. Robert's January guest appearance was so touching. I thought that the fan who offered his liver would have worked, but no such luck.
Robert one of the best stand-ups of this time. Miss ya buddy! At least you don't have to have a long drawn out cancer death.
maryann vesnaver
September 7, 2010
to the family of robert schiller. never met him, but he made us laugh.
may the memory of him, allow you to smile.
Lisa
September 7, 2010
To the Schimmel children, may you take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Diane Williams
September 7, 2010
RIP loved your raw honesty
k. Batastini
September 7, 2010
Gosh, I hate to hear of his passing...he was hilarious. God bless his daughter and the rest of his family and friends.
Lisa Brewster
September 7, 2010
My condolences to The Schimmel family. My prayers are with you all. May the love you have for Robert carry you and guide you during this difficult time. He will be greatly missed. I've attached a poem by Author, Mary Frye written in 1932. I know it by heart and read it anytime someone passes. I hope it brings a smile to some of your faces as it does mine when I've experienced a loss. Hold onto one another and take care.
"Do Not Stand by My Grave and Weep"
Do not stand at my grave and weep;
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die.
angie
September 7, 2010
RIP bob
Craig & Helen Sunderland
September 7, 2010
Being from the UK we can only say we have heard and seen him via recorded media, much to our dismay. He's the funniest comedian we have listened to. Our heart felt condolences to his family and friends. We are sure he is keeping them laughing where ever he is now.
Megan J
September 7, 2010
He was such an inspiration to so many who fought and continue to fight against cancer. RIP, Robert. My thoughts and prayers are with the family at this tragic time.
Pam
September 7, 2010
I've seen Robert Schimmel at the Improv twice and on HBO. He had me laughing hysterically. His family and friends are in my prayers during this difficult time.
Michael Meckstroth
September 7, 2010
I have seen and met Bob on many occasions and he was a wonderful, funny and very giving man. I will miss the laughter he has brought for so many years. I have seen him at least twice a year for the last several years and he left me with a sore stomach every time. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family at this difficult time. Thank you for the laughs Bob!!
Sandy Suzuki
September 7, 2010
I saw you first when you learned about your son you were at the comedy store. You made it a point to stop by every so often even when you were sick and then the last time I saw you was when you were gearing up for the Extreme Makeover: Home Edition I happen to be in Cali and you did an impromptu visit and wanted to try new cancer jokes. I admire you for that (being an oncology nurse) I am happy to hear your daughter is ok. I am glad to know at least if you can not be with your daughter you are at least with your son.
Thomas Bilello
September 7, 2010
Another smile, another great comic has been taken away from us too soon. Thank you for all the laughs Bobby. You will be missed. Rest in Peace.
Leticia Bernacet
September 7, 2010
My condolences to the Schimmel Family
September 7, 2010
One of the funniest and wittiest comediennes I've ever seen. Thanks for bringing so much laughter to us all!
Kar & Jim
September 7, 2010
Always thought of him as "unstoppable!" What a shame for him to have suffered and survived so much, then come to this tragic sudden end. My thoughts and prayers to his family ... especially to his daughter who will undoubtedly have a tough road ahead.
Chris DeChecchi
September 7, 2010
I got to see him 2 times in my life and he was a great comedian, RIP and you'll never be forgotten
T B
September 7, 2010
I wish to send my condolences to his family and friends. I will pray hard for his daughter that she understands some things are unavoidable and I am glad she is unharmed in the accident. I enjoyed his humor and appreciated his outlook on life.
John McCormick
September 7, 2010
Saw Bob at Carolines a few years back.He was my fave comedian. Gonna miss him...
September 7, 2010
My deepest condolenses to the Schimmel Family! My deep concern for Aliyah--God Bless! Pam Turner, South Carolina
DENNY MARTIN
September 7, 2010
my condolences to all the Schimmel family on your profound loss.Robert was my favorite comedian.I absolutely thought he was the best.I lost him too and am just as sad at his passing.May God greet him in paradise with a smile and a hearty laugh.He deserves that much...and God bless you all in your time of need.My love to you,Denny Martin.
Michael Soza
September 7, 2010
I just want to say how sad I am,He brought so much joy to so many people.I always found great comfort in his humor.He will be missed.My prayers go out to his family...Michael A.Soza(Tucson,AZ)
KAN
September 7, 2010
To the Schimmel family: I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I know that an unforeseen occurrence can take any one of us away from here at any time. However, this does not stop the pain of losing our dear loved ones. Because He "cares for us", our loving heavenly Father will help us to endure the burden of our aches and pains.
Ilene Sacks
September 7, 2010
I am so sad to hear of Robert's passing. I first saw him on a Rodney Dangerfield's HBO special and loved his humor from then on. My condolences to his family. A sad day!
Eileen Howe Noakes
September 7, 2010
I remember Robert from Saguaro High School in Scottsdale, AZ. He used to walk his girlfriend to all of her classes. She was in my biology class and he was very sweet when he was waiting for the teacher to come to class with the rest of us. I also remember him on campus.
September 7, 2010
Robert was my favorite comedian ever. No other could make me belly laugh like he could. The world will be so sad without you, but think of the great friends you will be reunited with. God Bless. Bernie Eddy, Rockwell Iowa
Gary Boyd
September 7, 2010
As a fellow cancer survivor you routines made me laugh and forget the worry and the pain. You also reminded me to be grateful. Thank you...
Karen Yoho
September 6, 2010
I could not be any sadder to hear of the passing of Robert Schimmel. His comedy was introduced to me by my husband, Robbie (who passed away at age 51 four years ago tomorrow). I also just finished reading Robert's book and I enjoyed his outlook so much....I have passed the book on to others. Robert, when you get to heaven look up my Robbie...he was a great joke man too...I'm sure you'll have fun telling jokes to God. You are my hero.
Andrea Williams
September 6, 2010
Robert was a master of comedy. I never laughed so hard. My condolences to his family.
A friend he never met
KEVIN KMETZ
September 6, 2010
Roberts' comedy came from his own life experiences. And one by one, he overcame them. God bless you and your family. Say hello to Sam Kinison, Richard Jenni and George Carlin. You will be missed.
Kevin Kmetz- Cypress, Texas
September 6, 2010
I have enjoyed your comedy over the years immensely. You have made me laugh and look at myself in new ways. My prayers are for your arrival to heaven and a speedy recovery for your daughter. God bless you and your family. -Nichol Johnson (Yoakum, TX)
Diane Rust
September 6, 2010
The world loved him because of his kindness and his humor. He became our friend and we feel such a personal loss. We will never forget him, his memory will live on thru his children.RIP dear friend, Diane Rust
Paul Kowalczyk & Robert Schimmel
Chris Kowalczyk
September 6, 2010
Miah
September 6, 2010
My condolences to the Schimmel family,
According to the account at Isiah 25:8
it holds out a loving promise which says
death will be swallowed up forever and
tears will be wiped from all faces.
September 6, 2010
My prayers go out to the family.God Bless the Family.
Rhonda Bent, Illinois
Ben Crawford
September 6, 2010
Robert Schimmel was one of my favorite comedians and a decent man to boot. I was more drawn to him through his struggle with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, a disease that my son also battled and won. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family during this time of loss.
Aggie
September 6, 2010
While I was going through chemo/radiation... someone suggested that I read your book. It was a contributing factor into me doing so well!! You made me see that it was better to laugh than it was to cry... and with laughter... I survived!! God Bless You and Your Family!!
ROSEANNE SCOTT
September 6, 2010
so sorry to the family i'm sure he was so blessed to have such a wonderful family,that loved him.may he rest in peace.keep him in your thoughts they last forever.amen
David J Bhaltazhar Esq
September 6, 2010
R.I.P.
Gambosi Family
September 6, 2010
Our thoughts & prayers go out to the ebtire Schimmel family. Saw him a couple times live at a comedy club in Chacago & met him after the show. He was a very funny & great guy. R.I.P. Rob. You will truely be missed.
Terrell Robinson
September 6, 2010
I saw you twice onstage in Wash. DC.
You were my favorite of the modern comics. Gonna miss your wonderful humor, Bob. Godspeed.
Ginny
September 6, 2010
Please accept my condolences on the loss of Robert. His book and his humor spoke for the rest of us cancer patients going through the same things. He was truly a remarkable man. May God bless all of you at this difficult time.
John & Mary
September 6, 2010
Our prayers for peace and consolation go to the entire Schimmel family. Robert brought to the world one of God's gifts to millions- laughter. When his name is mentiioned, people will smile.
September 6, 2010
'story
of life
love and
Death'
~amen~
wendy
September 6, 2010
i'm so sad he was so funny. he lived thrugh canser and got killed in a car that sucks RIP rob
Kathy Wiebke
September 5, 2010
My thoughts and prayers go to the entire Schimmel family. No family should have to endure so much. This tragedy serves as a reminder of how precious every day is.
Victoria&Andrew
September 5, 2010
our condolences to roberts
family,circle of laughter
circle of friends everywhere
very sad news to hear..
He sure had so much
to live for
sorry hes passed away..
He will be missed
forever be a legend~
rip godbless you'Robert'
Jay Carlson
September 5, 2010
Saw Robert live. He was great. We'll miss you, Robert!
Dutch Alexander
September 5, 2010
Robert will be sorely missed. He was a great inspiration to cancer patients everywhere. Rest In Peace my friend. God bless you.
John Santos
September 5, 2010
Hey I wanted to thank Bob for letting Us Open for you the last time here in Tempe. I had the wonderful chance to meet his son and daughter and his sister. Bob you are truly the nighest comic I have met in years. Thank you and you will be truely missed, comic legand and true fighter!
Susan Case-Lindstrom
September 5, 2010
My condolences to Robert's family and children. Very talented man and a great father. Taken from the world way too soon. Regards to the entire Schimmel family.
September 5, 2010
Precious Aliyah,
I know your grief is great. Please remember that "time and unforeseen occurance" befalls us all. In other words, accidents happen.
So, draw close to God in prayer for he is "near to those that are broken at heart; and those who are crushed in spirit he saves.” Another beautiful assurance from God is that he also promises to comfort your heart. So Aliyah lean on him, he will not let you down.
With sympathy
Lizbeth Morse
September 5, 2010
To make it through cancer and now this....my deepest sympathy to his family. Mr. Schimmel was THE best stand up comedian around. I had followed his career for years. He will be missed by so many people.
dayle rousseau
September 5, 2010
i loved robert as a comedian and his sarcasm and wit. he was a very funny man! i feel so bad for his daughter, may GOD help her through this tragic accident.
may GOD bless the schimmel family!
they are in my thoughts and prayers!!
Emily Tucker
September 5, 2010
Robert, you made my husband laugh very hard when he was dealing with multiple myeloma, which he ultimately died from. He taped your stand up and watched it over and over. Thank you Mr. Schimmel, for making my husband laugh. God bless you and your family.
September 5, 2010
What a talented and caring man. He will truely be missed. Prayers to his family.
Showing 1 - 100 of 151 results
Make a Donation
in Robert Schimmel's name
How to support Robert's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Robert Schimmel's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreMore ways to support the family
Visit the Sympathy Shop
Sponsored