Robert “Bob” Steven DeCosmo

Robert Steven DeCosmo, 77, Columbia, S.C., passed peacefully on June 2, 2024 in Columbia, S.C. He was surrounded by his loving family.

Day, time and location of Bob's Life Celebration Event will be announced via invitation.

Bob was born on February 10, 1947, to Robert and Lucille DeCosmo in Brooklyn, New York.

He earned a B.S. degree and numerous certifications and advanced coursework throughout his career.

Bob and his wife Rosie were married 3 plus decades. A devoted and loving husband and Dad, his priority was always his family and their happiness. He was a wonderful cook, baker, and bottle washer as he joked about it with his wife. He loved baking cookies during the holidays and sharing them with his family and friends. He won cooking contests for his Chili and Tex Mex Enchilada dish.

Bob and his wife lived in Boca Raton, FL and Vero Beach, FL for over 30 years until they moved to South Carolina in 2018.

Bob worked for the Florida State System 30 plus years which included Florida Atlantic University and Broward Community College as Associate Director of Human Resources and Fire Marshall and Director of Risk Management. He played an instrumental role in managing fund raising golf tournaments throughout his career at Broward Community College.

One could always find Bob at the golf course, bowling alley, a fishing boat or pier, or his patio chair reading the latest Tom Clancy book snuggled next to Mel, his Siamese feline buddy. He had the best luck playing the scratch off lottery tickets and his wife could always tell when Bob had bought the scratch offs by the trail of gray debris left on the kitchen counter. Bob so enjoyed the weekend trips with his golf buddies, bowling league teammates, and poker club friends.

Bob's favorite music included 50s Doo Wop, Country Music, Roy Orbison and Righteous Brothers songs.

Bob's quick wit and humor brought joy and laughter to those of us who knew and loved him. Bob was always there to help those who needed help without anyone knowing how and who he helped throughout his lifetime.

"If you die you die."

"My dad used to say that. And he said it in his classic New York way. I can still hear his voice in my head. And he didn't say it morbidly, he would say it in response to someone being afraid to do something. It was his way of saying, "Do it, there's nothing to be afraid of." He knew what he was talking about.

He had a near death experience as a young man, watching his body being operated on from above the room and knowing that he was okay. He knew death wasn't the end and that it wasn't a big deal. So, in his eyes, you do what you want to do and don't fret over what most of us fear. I guess that's why he lived such a fearless full life. And maybe that's part of the reason he took care of those of us who still feared the great last adventure.

Here's a little bit about my dad: he protected us, even if it meant having to put himself in a really tough spot. He loved pizza. He hated idiots. He read at lightning speed and took his time when it came to being patient with me. He could tell you how to fix anything and had the most awesome stories. He loved nature, was a walking encyclopedia, and had the best sense of humor, saying the most inappropriately hilarious things at the perfect time or doing something to bother my mom and then mischievously smiling like, "He He He, got her."

Yup, my dad is a great man and he leads by example. So it's only fitting that he is the first of us to go. I suppose it's his way of once again saying, "If you die you die." I love you Dad. Don't visit me while I'm in the shower. That would be weird."-Shawn.

"My Dad had been struggling with some health issues for a while and June 2 was the day that the struggle ended. He was at home and passed peacefully. Everyone says their Dad was the best and that can't be true, but man it sure as hell seems like it doesn't it? My Dad was always there, patient and always helping. Sometimes he didn't show the affection but he always loved me without question. There will forever be a hole now that will not be filled with him not here. Rest easy Pops and know that you will be missed."-Brian

"Bob you are my soul mate, my best friend, the person who filled my life with joy and purpose. You gave me unconditional love and was the only person who could make me laugh until tears rolled down my cheeks. Now my tears are ones of missing your smiles, your silly faces, and hugs.

"I have so much of you in my heart." (John Keats)-Rosie

Bob is survived by his wife Rosie DeCosmo, Columbia, South Carolina; Sons, Shawn (Arlene) McAllen, Texas, Brian (Pam) Fletcher, North Carolina, and Mark (Becky) Wellington, Florida; Grandchildren, Draven, Caitlin, Nicholas, Daniel, and Catherine; and sister Janet DeCosmo; Sister-in-laws Irma and Diana; Brother-in-laws Ramon, Michael, Dennis, Joe, Ruben, Ricardo and Malcolm; Niece and Nephew Cassy and Steven; Great nephews Todd William, Hunter, Walker and Mackenzie, and Lifetime friends Terry and Stephanie Levix.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents Robert DeCosmo (May 31, 2002), Lucille DeCosmo (December 13, 2015), and sister Carol Waters, (October 26, 2016).

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Michael J. Fox Parkinson's Foundation (michaeljfox.org).

Online condolences may be made to dignitymemorial.com

Arrangements made by Dunbar Funeral Home-Dutch Fork Chapel, 7600 Woodrow Street, Irmo, SC. 29063.