Robert "Bob" Barbalich

Bob Barbalich (76) passed away on December 2, 2025 leaving behind a legacy of laughter, love and cherished memories. Born on May 4, 1949 in New Orleans, Louisiana, he quickly discovered that life was more fun with a good joke or a harmless prank. If there was a rubber snake, a whoopee cushion or a perfectly timed joke within reach, you could count on him to use it.

To know Bob was to laugh – sometimes with him, sometimes at him and sometimes at yourself. His humor was his way of lighting up a room, easing a hard day or reminding us not to take life too seriously. His pranks and stories have become memories for many to retell for years. He had a talent in finding the fun in every moment and a greater talent in sharing it with the rest of us. He was a wealth of knowledge and always had a great story to share. He loved New Orleans and could tell you endless history stories about it. He attended Jesuit High School before going to LSU where he pledged Delta Tau Delta. He then followed his grandfather, father and uncles into the family business and worked at Economy Iron Works until he retired. He was a member of the Marine Club of New Orleans, loved coaching his sons in baseball and volunteering at PAC, taking vacations with his family, tailgating and going to LSU and Saints games, fishing, playing golf, and most recently becoming the "bird man".

Beyond his jokes, Bob had a big heart. He was always there when you needed him, listened to those who needed him and used laughter as his way of saying "I'm here for you". His family and friends knew that

beneath the great jokester was a man who loved his family and friends deeply and lived fully.

He is survived by his 3 children; Lindsey Sumich (Jonathan), Andrew Barbalich (Lauren), and Stuart Barbalich (Brooke). The 9 most precious grandchildren to him that called him Paw-Paw; Hailey Sumich, Lexi Sumich, Mollie Sumich, Matthew Sumich, Lucas Barbalich, Josephine (Josie) Barbalich, Wyatt Barbalich, Cooper Barbalich and Callie Barbalich. His 2 sisters; Karen Smith (James) and Susan Wiegand. His former wife of 33 years; Cynthia Engel Barbalich, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Robert P. Barbalich and Daisy Bouysou Barbalich.

His celebration of his life and yes, his jokes will be held on Friday, December 12, 2025 at Garden of Memories Funeral Home and Cemetery in Metairie, LA. Visitation will be 9:00am -11:00am with the service beginning at 11:00. In lieu of flowers please donate in memory of Bob to your local church or to Jesuit High School.

Though the world is quieter without his laughter and jokes, we are grateful for the joy and love he brought to our lives. We are sure he's already making heaven laugh and smiling down watching his family carry on his legacy.