Robert J. Bloomingdale

Mr. Robert J. Bloomingdale, age 72, of Wilmington, Delaware passed away peacefully on August 11, 2025 surrounded by his loving family.
Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, a son of Claire Louise Steinkirchner and Frederick L. Bloomingdale. He was the middle of nine children, Diane, Denny, Freddy, Lynn, Donna, Gina, Judy, and Beth.
Bob loved everything related to music, from yodeling to harmonies, from bluegrass to rockabilly. He spent years refining his skills and sharing his love of music with others. Bob always said his musical talents were throughout his family, his mom, Claire Louise was a beautiful vocalist, his brother Denny with the instrumentals, sister Gina, who sang and learned to play the guitar later in life and even Grandma Bert are part of the musical legacy. Recently, Bob traveled throughout Europe on tour with The Bullets. He told everyone it was an epic experience; even know he could not take his own Bass. He was a member of several bands and played with so many musicians throughout the years, all of which cultivated his musicianship. The Sin City Band, with Scott and Stevie and The Bullets with Michael and Pat and so many more, gave him space to thrive musically, but also allowed him to build relationships and brotherhoods to last eternity. The Galax Old Time Fiddlers Convention held a special place in his heart. Yearly adventures to Felt's Park surrounded by beautiful mountains and with world class musicians from all over held space for nearly 50 years. He always talked about next year's festival on the seven-hour car ride home. His Galax family was truly one of a kind.
In addition to his musical career, he was a talented picture framer, owning and operating R.J. bloomingdale's Art World, Inc. for 47 years. He loved the craftmanship of every frame and always felt every item of importance should be framed. "If it is worth keeping it is worth framing." Bob spent most of the last 10 years with his soul mate, daughter, and grandchildren in their combined home. He spent the mornings snuggling with Josie the couch dog, followed by the "Long" walk to the shop for some work and crossword puzzles with Pricilla. He never missed an opportunity to share a meal with the grandkids, always offering to fly and buy. He also acquired a new hobby in the last couple years, bicycle riding, with friends Dave and Steve. He would say he was heading out onto the trail for a short 10-mile ride. It brought him great joy to have some buddies join in. He sang and laughed at every opportunity with his daughter, sharing his best and worst jokes daily. He always helped to build some crazy project she had in her mind, sometimes it matched the vision and sometimes not, but always. He loved everyone.
Robert is survived by his daughter, Melissa C. Irwin and her Partner, Jeremy Smith; his grandchildren, Ian and Mia; his love and soul mate, Pat Bloomingdale; his brother, Dennis; his sisters, Judy, Lynn and Beth.
Arrangements have been entrusted into the care of Williams Funeral Home and Burial Services. Services are private. A black pocket t-shirt celebration will be announced shortly.
Memorial contributions in Bob's memory and honor may be made to Junior Appalachian Musicians, Inc., PO. Box 44, Independence, Virginia 24348
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