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Robert Loftus Obituary
Robert D. Loftus
of Hillcrest
Robert D. Loftus, 62, of Hillcrest, died Wednesday evening, April 29, 2009, at Wilson Memorial Regional Medical Center. He was predeceased by his parents, June Goodell and Robert Loftus; and a nephew, James Loftus Jr. He is survived by his wife, Sheila LaVassar, Hillcrest; a son and daughter-in-law, Brian and April Loftus, Dallas, GA; twin grandsons, Nicholas and Brandon Loftus; a sister, Karen and Gary Haynes, Pt. Crane; brother, James and Dale Loftus Sr., Binghamton; nephew, Christopher Haynes; niece, Michele Reilly. He was a member of St. Francis of Assisi Church, Hillcrest, and a graduate of Lackawanna Jr. College. He was a retired coordinator of Behavioral Health Systems and Services for New Horizons at Binghamton General Hospital, after 20 years of service. He was the recipient of the James L. Palmer Counselor of the Year Award. He dedicated his life to helping individuals with chemical dependency. He was well respected by his peers and co-workers. He enjoyed golf, hockey and his 1970 Olds 442.
A Funeral Mass will be offered at St. Francis of Assisi Church, Hillcrest, Monday at 10 a.m. Entombment will be in Calvary Cemetery, Johnson City. The family will receive friends at the J.A. McCormack Sons Funeral Home, 141 Main Street, Binghamton, Sunday from 1-4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in memory of Rob may be made to U.H.S. Foundation, 10-42 Mitchell Avenue, Binghamton, NY 13903 for use at New Horizons.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Loftus
Jody Zizzi
May 23, 2011
Rob was the bright spot in my early recovery, and he was the greatest guy. I had the blessed honor to call him my friend. He was always in my prayers. God bless him, and his family.
Heather Rey
May 25, 2009
Brian,
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your father. I know you two were very close and how much you admired him. I hope you're able to find some peace knowing that he's now Home with the Lord and free of all his earthly pains. Cherish all your memories and the time you and your family had with him and always remember how proud you made him. My thoughts and prayers are with you Sheila and your family.
Eddie and Jennifer Bargeron
May 11, 2009
Sorry for your loss. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. Just know that he is in a better place.
Satin Waller
May 6, 2009
Brian and Family,
You are in my thoughts and prayers. I pray that your lives be blessed by the memories of your father. I know that he will be smiling down as he watches over your family.
April Loftus
May 6, 2009
I had the great pleasure of calling Rob, father in law. There were also many other titles Rob held: husband, father, grandfather (Pee-Pop) and FIGHTER (to name a few)! He was an inspiration to us all with his courageous fight against this terrible disease. Now, he is in a much better place, free of pain and suffering and surrounded by God's love. I know he will be watching over us all, guiding and protecting.
Rob, give Maggie a big hug for us and tell Pop-Pop, I love him!!!
You will always have a place in my heart.....we miss you....all my love
Chris Bailey
May 6, 2009
Sheila, Brian & family,
Rob was an amazing man, and will be greatly missed. My life, like many others', was touched by his kindness and caring and I'm fortunate to have called him not only my co-worker, but my friend. I've always admired his wisdom and strength, and have learned many things from him over the years. We loved him like family and will forever hold him in our hearts.
Mary Guy
May 5, 2009
Sheila, Brian, April and our boys:
I was blessed to be around Rob several times before he took God's Hand and he always radiated the love he had for his family. The boys were a bright spot in his life as were you all. The time he had on this earth was a true expression of his dogged determination to stay "awhile" and bask in the love of family and friends. What a wonderful example to leave for us all. You all were blessed to love him and he was truly blessed to have you all in his life. May you hold the Grace and Peace of The Lord in your heart as you get through this trying time. Know that Rob is looking down on you all sharing in your every breath.
With much love,
Mimi
May 5, 2009
Sheila, Brian, April, Nicholas and Brandon,
I know this is a difficult time and only time will "help" with the pain. You'll never forget how wonderful Rob was nor how much he fought to be with you all as long as he could. I was only around him a few times but he always seemed very loving. I understand your pain and send my prayers and love to all. God loves him very much and Rob will always be with you in more ways than one. You'll "feel" him in alot of different ways and remember how much he loved you especially.
Love to all. Dawn Bargeron
Tiffany Magee
May 5, 2009
Brian & family,
I just wanted to let you know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. Only time will heal your heart. If you need anything please let me know, I know only too well how difficult this time can be.
God Bless
Debbie Tokos
May 5, 2009
Sheila, Brian and Family,
My life has been blessed and enriched having been able to have Rob as a dear friend and coworker. The love of his family was so evident and he spoke of you all constantly. We had the privelage of watching Brandon and Nicolas grow - he loved sharing his photos and telling us the most recent "cute" story...his love for you all was never ending. Sheila, Rob's love for you was so evident. Rob had many passions.. family first, his career at UHS and his ability to touch those who needed him most. All of this is truly a gift from God.
"In times of deepest sorrow, when tears cloud our eyes, it seems our grief is endless, but then we realize, that sorrow is the memory of a happy yesterday, and memories will live on and on."
Rob, my dear friend, may you rest in peace.
Love,
Debbie
Kriss & Dave Maroney
May 4, 2009
Brian & Family,
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
He will be remembered in your hearts.
David Larkin
May 4, 2009
Brian and April, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Brian, it certainly was evident that your relation with your father was very special---what a wonderful gift I know you did not take for granted and he must 've been so proud of.... His spirit will be with you and your family forever.
God Bless.
Nancy Wahl Santiago
May 4, 2009
To the Family of Rob Loftus -
I'm an old friend from high school days. Rob and Rita were in my wedding in 1968. I heard that he was doing well and that he had a wonderful son that lived in GA. After reading the entries in the guest book, I know he will be missed by so many people. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Gerlinde Bush
May 4, 2009
Sheila,
I'm so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you and your family. May Rob rest in peace and may you always have those special memories with him.
Mary
May 4, 2009
While doing an internship at UHS, I had the pleasure of meeting Rob. He was an excellent role model for a person new to the profession and gave generously of himself to others. I admired his caring way and wonderful humor. Not to long ago I had a chance meeting with him and we reminisced about New Horizons--he heart was still there.
Rob was a great guy who will be missed by anyone who ever was privileged to spend some time in his presence. My sympathy to his friends,family, and colleagues.
May 4, 2009
Shelia,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you now and in the coming days. He was a wonderful person and I know he helped alot of people. He will always be remembered as a kind soul.
He is at peace now with the Lord and the pain is all gone.
May you have peace also.
Love,
Georgi
Dick & Sue Barden
May 4, 2009
Brian & Family,
It seems, as you spoke of your Dad, after spending time watching him be strong & inspirational to you, that you have grown because of his strength. We are sure that is the strength he showed to all those he worked with through his life, and you are all stronger because of him. What a testimony to what seems to be such an inspirational person. May God wrap his arms around you all.
Dick Goodnough
May 4, 2009
To Robs Family, I used to play hockey with Rob and We used to have great times together. I used to see Him very infrequently and We always had a few laughs.
We were out of town to see Our grandkids and were not able to attend.
Robs friend, Goody
Alan Wilmarth
May 4, 2009
Shelia, Brian and family,
Where to start? If we are truly fortunate in life we have the opportunity to meet a person or two who can touch our heart and life in a magnificent way. Only if we are truly blessed to we get to share a career and a friendship with that person for more than twenty years. I am among the truly blessed as I had the gift of friendship with Rob. Throughout our years of working together, we weathered a number of storms and shared countless laughs, hugs and tears.
I cannot imagine the degree of loss that you all must feel, for I am overwhelmed at his passing simply as a friend and co-worker. Please know that you will remain in my thoughts and prayers as you move forward in your lives. Rob loved you all dearly and so often spoke of you thourghout his day. I am sincerely sorry for your loss, but truly grateful for having been able to share part of my life with Rob and with each of you through him.
I was once told that we make a liviing by what we get, and make a life by what we give. Rob gave more than any single human I know. Through his giving of himself, he built a life that will live on through those he touched. His handprint will remain on the hearts of all who knew him.
Sincerely,
Alan J. Wilmarth
RON & DOTTIE HOVANCIK
May 4, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Judy Orband
May 4, 2009
Sheila,
I am so sorry for your loss. I will continue to keep you in my prayers in the days ahead. I hope the memories of the years you and Rob shared will help ease your pain.
Take care and God bless you and your family.
Joe Huse
May 3, 2009
Brian & Sheila,
Rob was a 'special' friend. As Brian's step-father, I shared a very special 'son' with him. Brian, the special releationship you shared with Rob was alway obvious and your admiration for all that he added to your life was alway there for all to see. I was always very appreciative and thankful that Rob accepted me a part of your life and he and I spent considerable time talking 'cars', sports, and laughing over some of your and OB's 'hair-brained' stunts.
Sheila I know you've lost your soulmate and our hearts go out to you. You know for the all the Guest Book messages that Rob was a well respected professional, a great friend, and a role model for more people that any would imagine.
God Bless You both and rest in the knowledge that he's taken his rightful place in the Home of our Lord.
Mari-Jo Salak-Trumino
May 3, 2009
Rob was truly a wonderful person. My collegue Courtney and I worked with Rob at New Horizons and there was never a time that he left our offices when we weren't smiling and laughing. What a wonderful spirit he had and just a wonderful human being. God bless you.
May 3, 2009
Sheila, Brian, and family,
I am so deeply sorry for your loss. Rob was a wonderful man. I will always remember our talks we had. Rob always had good advice to help you through what ever situation you were going through. I will never forget the April Fools joke I played on him, which is how he got his nick name, (Mr. Fox). I gave him a message that a Mr. Fox called and wanted to speak to him along with the phone number. Rob called the number as our floor listened out side his office. He was so professional on the phone only to find out that he had called Ross Park Zoo. From that moment on he was Mr. Fox. I will miss Rob and I know he is with God and is now at peace. May God be with all of you, and know Rob loved you all and was so proud of his family. Vida Bendick
Tim Osborn
May 3, 2009
Rob what a great friend to all and those in most need of help in a time of crisis.
Please know that you are in my prayers and I hear there is great golf courses in heaven. God Bless
Brandon & Nicholas Loftus
May 3, 2009
PeePop,
From Nicholas: I love you. . .and I want to give you a kiss!
From Brandon: I love you too, and I'm sorry I didn't get to kiss you. Please hug Maggie Dog and Pop-pop!
Rita Huse
May 3, 2009
Rob,
God Blessed us with our beautiful son Brian. He is that special person today because of being inspired by you. The bond between you and Brian is so close - which is a reflection of you being a wonderful father and role model for him. Even though our lives went in different directions, I never stopped respecting and admiring you for the special person you are. Over the years, you've touched many lives and created a special place within all our hearts where we'll always remember you. Rest peacefully Rob, it's a peace you've earned.
Lynn Paige
May 3, 2009
Brian,
I had the priviledge of working with your dad at New Horizons. He was a great person, candid with his words, a great advocator, stubborn, controlling, dressed to a "T" every day-even when he wore jeans, he looked sharp (I did have to send him home once for wearing 2 different shoes). I called him "Bob" because he disliked it so (in turn he called me Lynnipooh)and enjoyed telling him when he got a "little poofy" during our meetings, when he would tell us what to do, the best part was when he would come to me after and say "was I a little poofy?". I also got to travel with him to Drug Court in Norwich for many Mondays. Best story he told me was when you once asked for his opinion and when you didnt take his suggestion, he got upset and you told him that you asked his opinion, not what you should do. He told me that, that was one of his life lessons, which helped him hear what people were asking of him. What a great dad you had, he spoke so highly of you and your family, wasnt to often he didnt have new pictures to share. What a wonderful life you and your family get to celebrate. You are all in my thoughts. I will miss you "Bob"
Pete McGinn
May 3, 2009
Rob brought a positive spirit to UHS and shared that spirit with the people he met and worked with. I am glad to have known him.
Lisa Murphy
May 2, 2009
I had the wonderful pleasure of working with Rob at UHS. He always had a smile on his face no matter what he was going through. We had many laughs at work and I will always remember him and miss him.
Scott shephard
May 2, 2009
I met Rob 20 years ago as my counselor and had the honer to cut his hair for almost 10 years I will miss talking to Rob and I will never forget him..
Karen Haynes
May 2, 2009
Dearest Rob,
You have been in my prayers and thoughts since you became ill. I have been so proud to have you as a brother. You mean the world to me. I'll never forget all of our childhood memories and growing up with you. You were my big brother. Now you are not suffering and are in a happier place. You'll always be with me in mind and soul. Until we meet up again, never forget that I love you so much. Keep a light on for me.
Your Sister,
Karen
Michael McNally
May 2, 2009
I had the pleasure and honor of working with Rob the pas 20 years at UHS. He eptomized the highest skills and compassion for the people he provide care. He will be missed.
Kristin
May 2, 2009
I am grateful for Rob's kindness, his friendship, his honesty, and his humor. He has made a difference for so many people in this community and the impact he's had on others during his journey is inspiring and infinite. He is loved and he will be greatly missed.
Heather Martinho
May 2, 2009
Rob has always had a special place in my heart. I shared good times with him and he helped me through tough times. I am so thankful my dad, Alan, had such a wonderful friend that was a friend to everyone in the family. Thank you for all your guidance and may you rest in peace. I will miss you.
Marcia Clark
May 2, 2009
It was a priveledge to have Rob as my supervisor at UHS. He was a man of knowledge, care and empathy. I always enjoyed talking to him about life in general and of course hotrods which we both had a passion for. He will be missed by many who had the opportunity to know him...May God bless you all in this time of sorrow.
Linda Daly
May 2, 2009
To Rob's family, I had occational encounters with Rob at UHS, and he was always kind and funny. He worked in the field of Recovery which is a dedication of the self to others in their worse moments, and I'm sure he touched many lives. May Peace find your hearts.
Rich Giustiniani
May 1, 2009
To the family of Robert Loftus, and his son Brian. I send my best wishes.. My cousin Brian. I am sorry for the loss of your father. He did a lot to help others. He gave his life to all that needed his help....Im sure God will grant him the rewards.
Jay & Kelly O'Connor
May 1, 2009
Brian,
Our deepest sympathy for your loss. You and your family will be kept in our prayers. I only had the privelege of meeting him a few times and you could tell how proud he was to have you as his son. Our hearts are with you.
Alan
May 1, 2009
It was an honor to work with and get to know Robb. He possessed an intelligence to know what needed to be done and the strength to do it. A life well lived. God Bless
Jennifer Burch
May 1, 2009
To Rob's family,
My prayers go out to all of you. Rob was my supervisor at UHS, during a very difficult time in my life. I appreciated his fairness with me. He was so helpful and caring. I'm glad to have known him.
Always, Jennifer Burch
May 1, 2009
Sheila and family,
I grew up with Rob, went to school with him and Jim. Rob was a driver in my wedding
and a good friend. Although we have not been in touch for many years, I was always very proud of what Rob had done with his life and how wonderful it was that he was helping so many others. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Ed Cordick Greensboro, NC
Andrea Reale
May 1, 2009
In our own lives, we are blessed with meeting some with 'spirit' and 'grace'. When I started on my 'professional' and also 'personal' road, I was honored to have our paths cross. Your deep smile, and compassionate heart has touched many. My prayers are with the family; and I know that your 'memories' and 'spirit' will allow them to pass on the gift, the gift of people, like you, who make this world a better place. Love, Andrea
May 1, 2009
Sheila, I am so sorry. My heart is with you. May Rob rest peacefully.
Sincerely,
Judy Matthews, Binghamton, NY.
Kathy Stanton
May 1, 2009
Sheila, Brian, and Family,
Rob and I worked together for 20 years. Most recently he was my boss. In that capacity we often butted heads but he would always come to my office and we would come to a positive resolution. We shared grandchildren stories, dog stories, and struggles with our health. He helped me get through a rough time returning to work still battling with my illness. His support was tremendously comforting to me. I respect his strength,character, and the love he had for his family first and the job that he had so much passion for. God be with all of you.
Denise Denmon
May 1, 2009
I will always remember Rob as a kind and gentle man, dedicated to helping others. Rob was not only a colleague, but also a great friend to my father, Alan. Rob touched many lives and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
May 1, 2009
I am so very sorry for your loss. May happy memories and the support of family and friends help to sustain you during this difficult time.
Sharon Kanick Schappert
Barb & Mark
May 1, 2009
We are so sorry for your loss and we will miss Rob, the pictures he shared of the twins and his caring way. He had many friends throughout the departments at UHS and we will always remember him here in Information Services.
Marcia Abbey
May 1, 2009
Bob's death is such a huge loss.Not only for those that he helped in his career but also for the community of professionals who care about those struggling with addiction. He had a gift and it inspired so many.
Michael Whalen
May 1, 2009
Brian, I am very sorry to hear about your loss. My thoughts are with you and your family and wish you the best during this tough time...
Gail Cribbs
May 1, 2009
I am a better person for knowing Rob.
Please accept my hearfelt sympathy.
Mindy ~
May 1, 2009
My deepest condolences go out to you at this time of mourning. Rob had a gift that he used to help so many. He will be greatly missed by all…
MaryJo Stevens
May 1, 2009
To the family of Robert Loftus. I had the privilege of meeting Rob 23 years ago as my first therapist-counselor. I am proud to say Ive been sober 23 years. He was the one counselor I remember as being the most kind and gentle soul I have ever met. May he rest in peace and watch over all of us. Thank you Rob for the start of my recovery I will forever be grateful to you. MaryJo
Mary Paden
May 1, 2009
Brian,
I am so sorry to hear about your dad. I only met him a few times but he always had a smile on his face and was always laughing about something. My mom talked about him all the time. I know she will miss him too. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Kelli
May 1, 2009
My thoughts are with you and your family. He was a wonderful man and will be greatly missed by all.
Deacon Joe & Pat Federowicz
May 1, 2009
We are so sorry for your loss. Rob was a wonderful co-worker,dedicated clinician and helpful presence; he is missed. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Pat and Joe Federowicz.
Candice
May 1, 2009
Brian,
My heart aches with yours. I know all to well the pain you are in as I lost my mother back in December. Just know that your father is at peace and will continue to watch over you, April and the twins from above. You will have good days and bad, but remembering the good times will help you through this difficult time. You are in my thoughts and prayers now and forever. God Bless you and family.
Jerome Scott
May 1, 2009
Dear Sheila, Brian and family,
I want to extend my deepest sympathy to your family. Rob gave tremendous love and support to all those drawn to him. He was truly magnetic with his personality and compassion. I believe he is in a better place, with a better view, so he can continue advising us on how to make our lives better. God bless, and remember that because of Rob we are all loved.
Ny Siboura Derry
May 1, 2009
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
-Steve Miller
May 1, 2009
Rest in peace Mr. Loftus. You were such a fighter & such a wonderful Dad. You raised a wonderful son who is as proud of you as you are of him.
My thoughts & prayers are with all of you. You have my most sincere condolences & my deepest sympathy.
God bless you all
Angie
May 1, 2009
My Dear Sheila,
Words cannot express how deeply sorry I am for your loss. Rest In Peace Rob.
With Love Always
Lyn and John Baer
May 1, 2009
Sheila and family,
Our thoughts an prayers are with you at this time.
Cindy Fitch
May 1, 2009
Miss Sheila, I am so sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers. May your memories help you through these hard times.
My last photo with dad
Brian Loftus
May 1, 2009
Rest in pace my loving father. You are in a better place than all of us. I will miss you terribly but I know you'll always be inside me. I will try to keep your loving legacy alive and I will make you proud. I will see you again someday. Watch over me, April and the twins. I love you forever. Love, your proud son.
Mike Foley
May 1, 2009
There are so many lives that are better because Bob touched them. Condolences to the family.
Linda Newton
May 1, 2009
Sheila,Brian and family, My deepest sympathy for you loss. I can't tell you what a pleasure it was to work with Rob and have him as a friend. He was kind , and caring to all patients and staff. He indeed had the respect of us all. I am truly thankful to have known Rob and learned from him over the years. May All of your hearts heal with the wonderful memories you have of him. He will be truly missed. Please call me if there is anything I can do for you . God Bless you all. Linda Newton
GeorgeW McMillen Sr
May 1, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Noreen Judd
May 1, 2009
Dear Shelia,
Although we have never met, I am Tina's sister Noreen and I've been keeping both you and Rob in my prayers. I will continue to do that and I pray that you will find comfort and peace in the days to come.
Warmly,
Noreen
Colleen O'Neil
May 1, 2009
My condolences to Rob's family...Rob was a great guy and a valued peer and colleague...he will be greatly missed...
Joe Mee
May 1, 2009
Bob and I go a long way back to our early days at McFarland Johnson and more recently at UHS. He was always willing to help anyone.
My deepest sympathies.
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