Robert P. Devitt Jr.

Robert P. Devitt Jr.

Robert Devitt Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Oct. 17, 2001.
A Life Lived to Its Fullest

At Kutztown University in Pennsylvania people may not have heard of Robert P. Devitt Jr., but everybody knew Psycho. Rugby player and life of the party, Mr. Devitt had been known to go so far as to eat goldfish and drink beer out of his shoes to keep revelers entertained. "There was nothing he would not do to keep a party going," said his brother, Timothy Devitt.

Although rugby took a back seat to golf after he left college, Mr. Devitt, 36, was always adventurous — skydiving, motorcycling and kayaking. He liked to quote his father, who would say, "If you want to learn how to play poker, play it for money."

And that's how he lived his life, whether it was cooking for friends, hitting the links or working as project manager for Cantor Fitzgerald with an office on the 103rd floor of the World Trade Center. He commuted three hours a day, said his fiancée, Nicole LeMaster. "There was nowhere else he would rather be."

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January 2, 2025

John Pedicone posted to the memorial.

September 10, 2023

Your Brown-Eyed Girl, Nicole posted to the memorial.

September 11, 2022

Wendy Sandifer-Stech (formerly Stech) posted to the memorial.

John Pedicone

January 2, 2025

Memories of Bob.

Darwins Theory of Evoltion was his favorite book. It was like 5000 pages. I think Bob read it twice. Bob was a Psychology Major and a very good student. Bob was not so much for in person but studied,read alot and aced his exams.

Bob favorite beer was Goebels. Bob called it the Champagne and Beer. Cost $5.33 a case.

Bob wanted to go over Niagria Falls in a barrel. Bob knew all the stats on falls survivors. His dream was to go over, drink a Miller and becoming a national spokesman.

Bob once took a group Splinking to Kutztown caves after a night of drinking. 6 or 7 people one or two flashlights. He led us in and out safely.

Bob and Steve from Mahawking would do door jam pushups for fun.. Bob was 6ft2 190 and always in shape.

Bob and Hobbs joined KU not knowing any rules. Bob became a good player and at games the crowd would yell "Pshyco". Bob enjoyed playing and also enjoyed after games. Once he invited a opposition player to crash in our hall closet at the Cliffs for a few days after they became drinking buddies.

After recieving a lifetime ban from Basin Steeet for something stupid, Bob meet the owners and accepted a week of cleaning the bar and kitchen as punishment.

Bob was a pole vaulter in H.S. and would tell us how Mike Cantrell at KU was a real good vaulter.

After my car water pump went Bob volunteered to fix it. A week later with may setback it unbelievavle worked!

Bob drove a old pickup in need of many repairs. He often drove with a untreaded tire barely hanging on to do odd jobs in Masonary. Before rugby he did masonary work for Doc Jones.

I once drove to Brick with Bob, Bob saw his girl,
A quick stop at his parents (we were fed by mom) and left after about 5mins). Bob had homework to get back to. About a 4 hour round trip from KU.

Bob and Don built the great bar we had at 509 Cliffs.

In the KU dorms we play Dungeon and Dragons. Bob would scream " lets pillage this place" through the game.

Just a few memories of a great spirit Bob. When I heard the news like everyone my heart dropped for Bob and his family! In my mind Bob could survive anything. Hoping to hear from the KU people.

Remembering 509 South Cliffs Bob's home away from Brick. 1986 to about 1988

Myself John p
Jeff C Kevin S. Don H JR Hobbs Steve Paul T Danny L Bob D and all others.



RIP Bob D. KU

Your Brown-Eyed Girl, Nicole

September 10, 2023

Oh Bob, how are we hours away from marking 22 years since 9/11/01 when you were tragically taken from us? Your father has passed, my father and mother have passed, your brother just passed less than a year ago. I have been married, have two sons, and have divorced. Your mother and I remain the best of friends and your family continues to be my family. You have a sister-in-law and three wonderful nephews whom you never met on Earth, yet I know you know them. (You never miss a thing!) I have thought of you each of the 8,029 and soon to be 8,030 days that have gone by in my life without you in it. Sometimes you're a fleeting thought, and other times, like today, I have intense memories and emotions. Anyone who has experienced extreme loss knows this about grief--- It can jump out of the shadows and beat you senseless before you even know what happened. People say, "Don't forget 9/11," but for many of us we just cannot. It's not a choice. We are happily going about our day and see an ad, a post, or a tv show about that day and that's it---game over. One minute we're laughing and crying the next. Let me tell you a few things you already know: I'll miss you always, I'll love you always, and I'll always think you were crazy! Lol! You were the best crazy I ever met, and I will forever be crazy for you! Until we meet again...

Wendy Sandifer-Stech (formerly Stech)

September 11, 2022

Bob and I were in the same class at Brick High School and I have fond memories that include him....in particular when we played miniature golf at Point Pleasant Board Walk. Bob was well-loved and easy to be around. Thinking and praying for Bob's family and loved ones on this 21st anniversary of his death. May God continue to comfort you as you live with the daily grief.

Cindy Roe

September 7, 2021

Remembering Robert on the 20th anniversary of 9/11...

Chris Bayham

September 11, 2020

I knew Bob when I was just 14 and he was 22..He was the kinda guy you looked up to. This man was strong funny and all around a great guy.. I think about him everyear on 9/11 because we worked side by side when we younger and he taught me alot about life..He was a Mason who laid block fast strong and like a ox..we lost contact after he changed jobs and he moved on in life .I'm a Mason today because of him & my brother steve . He was a good friend
I send my condolences to all his family

picked up on site.

alli hobbs

September 12, 2014

Stephen Mendez

September 11, 2013

Bob came to work with me at SSE Products (SSE Technologies) in Elmont back in the early 90's. I remember how his interview went.

We were sitting at a diner and I gave him 2 puzzles to solve. I wanted to see if he had the kind of perseverance needed for the job. He didn't give up and worked on the puzzles without asking for hints. He didn't figure the puzzles out but I wasn't looking for that in the short time that we had. I just needed to know he would focus and not give up.

He was such a card but a damn good worker.

I'll always remember him.

See you in heaven Bob!

Greg Boyce

September 10, 2013

Every year at this time I reflect back on 9/11 and think of Bob. I realized a few years ago that my students are no longer are old enough to remember that horrible day. I have begun sharing my experiences with them about not only 9/11 but the April Day when I found out Bob had been in the Towers. I hope that by telling them about Bob and the days event will help them understand and help keep the memory of that fun loving wonderfully goofy guy alive. The joy in which he took on life. You are not forgotten.

Joel Avalos

September 13, 2010

Down here in Laredo, Texas we have a motorcycle run in honor of the 9/11 victims. This year I had the honor of choosing his name(Robert P. Devitt Jr). I rode on my bike with him(Robert P. Devitt Jr), in my mind, riding along side me. I may have never met you Robert, but I respect you very much,and in my community, respect is the most important thing in life. This is the reason that I was very honored to choose your name. To the family of Robert, God bless you!

BARBARA & JOE ULRICH

September 11, 2010

WE REMEMBER BOBBY AND A NEIGHBOR WITH A WONDERFUL FAMILY. WE PRAY FOR HIM, HIS FAMILY AND ALL THE VICTIMS OF 9/11. GOD PLEASE GIVE THEM STRENGH AND PEACE OF MIND. ALL OUR LOVE.

David Cheung

September 11, 2010

Bob Sr.,
I remember you were excited to see your son at World Trade Center; and for no reason other than you wanted to share that joy you brought a book for my son. You lost yours on 9/11 I lost mine in 2006. While I can never feel what you feel, I know I too “miss him every day, every minute but I know he is in a better place and will see him again someday. I am very proud to be his father.”

Doug Abraham

May 15, 2009

In My Pocket

I have memories in my pocket.
They rattle among the change.

My memories of you are treasures I carry wherever I go.

They are stored in bits and pieces, parts of a beautiful whole
They give me comfort when I think I am alone.

Yes, I have memories in my pocket, like so much other stuff I keep there.

But of all the treasures I have, it’s the memories of you that are the most precious.

Swiez

September 11, 2007

McDevitt as we sometimes like to call you in our old appartment at the cliffs in Kutztown. We know you’re up there with Big Daddy Dese having a good time. I’m sure will meet again sometime in the future. You will always be remembered. Strength and Honor,

Eric Yermack

April 16, 2007

I have been very touched to learn of the full life of Robert and the enthusiasm that he had for living. He sounds like he was a fun person to know. I would like to learn more about his background (where he grew up, etc.) if anyone is willing to share. Please contact me.

Robert Devitt

December 28, 2006

My name is also Robert Devitt. I came across this by a Google search.It is chilling to read about this Robert. May God Bless him now that he is in a better place.My prayers to his family.

Kristine

October 31, 2006

As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.

P Tabbernor

September 24, 2006

In remembrance....

September 11, 2006

The way we remember our brother Psycho (slice).
Ku rugby Nation

Brian Somich

September 11, 2006

I was a roomate of Bob's for about 6 months at Kutztown, I couldnt believe the news when I heard it, I wish the best for his family, he was a really good guy who was a blast to be around. We had some great conversations late at night.

Bill Ports

September 11, 2006

I worked with Bob for a number of years as one of the vendors for Cantor. We enjoyed beer and golf together. I think of him often and pray for him and his family.

Marty Devitt

May 17, 2005

Hello. My adopted son became Robert Devitt III in February, 2002. He took the name of my father. As I was looking through the tributes to 9-11, I saw the name of Robert Devitt and I read some of the tributes. I am glad that my son now has a new reason to proudly carry the name as I think that Bob must have been a terrific person. My son has two special people in heaven to pray for now who have his name. I hope that he will lead a life of dignity, kindness, and love that will reflect the goodness of their lives. I hope that we are related, because then he can truly carry on a legacy. My prayers for your family and your loss. Marty Devitt

jodi (packard) houlon

February 28, 2004

I am finding out about Bob's death two and a half years after it happened. He and I dated throughout college and went our separate ways afterwards. He was on my mind lately and I looked him up on the internet only to find this terrible news. Bob was an adventurous spirit and had a kind and gentle soul. Being with him meant having fun and plenty of laughs. He was amazing with numbers, facts, and trivia. When I think of my college years I think of Bob Devitt. I'll always have a special place in my heart for him. Although we lost touch over the years, I feel there is a void in the world without him. My thoughts and prayers go out to Mr. and Mrs. Devitt, Tim, Chris and Nicole.

Michael Litzenberger

September 11, 2003

I knew "psycho" from our days on the rugby pitch in Kutztown. Bob was not a small guy and ran like the wind. We downed an occasional ale together and enjoyed our time at Shorty's, Book and Brew and of course Basin Street. Those who didn't really know Bob probably thought of him as the guy who went to college for 7 years and never graduated. But this couldn't have been farther from the truth. He is quite possibly the most intelligent rugby player ever to suit up for Doc Jones. I had a chance to meet with his family and his long time girlfriend Nikki at his memorial in New Jersey. They are super people as was Bob. My family's prayers and those of all who played with you at Kutztown are with you on this solemn day.

Anonymous

December 21, 2002

Bob, I didn't know you very long. Just a couple of years when we played on the same football team as Dave, Chuck, Sal & Joey. I wish that I could have gottten to know you better. My prayers go out to your family.

Patty Meehan

September 13, 2002

Nicole and Family, I am sorry for your loss. I thought of Bob today,(9-11-02)and thought of how lucky I was to have known him. I only knew him by his voice over the phone, but he always made me laugh! He spoke about Nicole and his family often. I remember how he told me, a family member made him some relish for x-mas one year and he accidently broke the jar,and how disappointed he was. Well that story stays fresh in my mind every day because it makes me think of how grateful I am to cherish the little things in life, like Bob did.

Jo Devitt

September 11, 2002

Just like to say how sorry we are for your loss, Peter sounds like a typical Devitt - even here in Sydney (Australia) the Devitt's that I know are always the life of the party and lets hope that will never fade.

Edward Woodruff

September 10, 2002

I had done work for him at Cantor a couple of times and I just wanted to say what a great guy he was. I spoke to him about 830 that day. I wont forget him.

greg boyce

April 19, 2002

i had not heard the name "psycyho" for many years. i had not spoken to Bob since we both left Kutztown over ten years ago. When I read in our alumni magazine of his death. I was shocked and deeply saddened at the loss. I had the pleasure to live w/ Bob for a semester. In the past hours I have thought back to the time i was around him. I remember him going to a concert on Thursday(saying he would return Friday) and he ended up staying until Sunday. I remember when our sink was full of dishes we had to decide whose turn it was to clean them. Then the loser would invite over their girlfriend and con her into doing them for us. His nickname was fitting, but there was so much more substance to the man. he was a great person who would help you out at anytime. Although we did not talk or keep in touch he is and always will be a part of my great memories of a wonderful time. He will be missed.

Mario D'Alicandro

April 19, 2002

I met Bob a few years ago through a mutual friend, David, and I always loved when I got a chance to spend some time with him. Bob had a great way of always making you smile and forgetting your troubles. I met Nicole at David's son's baptism and my wife still remembers all the laughs that we had at that table that night. I also remember playing golf with him (although he really "played", I mostly made believe), and having a great afternoon with him. Although I was not Bob's best friend I cherish the memories that I have of him. He will always be in my thoughts.

Ann Szaniszlo

April 14, 2002

I wanted to express my deepest sympathy to Nicole, Bob's family and friends.

I am making a memorial quilt block for Bob for the United in Memory Quilt Project. I needed to get some more personal information than just a name so I have been searching around and came upon this memorial site. I have some wonderful ideas but if anyone here has any more ideas for things they would like to see on his block that I'm making please email me. Any input would be great. I want to make sure that this is a block he would be proud to call his own.

I hope I make him and everyone who loved him proud.

God Bless Us All!

Janice LeMaster

March 16, 2002

What can i say about Bob.

Most people dont think that anyone is good enough for their child and Bob had to prove himself to me. However, he seemed to be the perfect one for my daughter, Nicole. They shared a great many interests, and enjoyed life together. He was fearless, and that would scare the daylights out of me, yet i knew that he would protect Nicki.( i did have my doubts however, when she told me she was going to jump out of an airplane) i was just getting to know him better and he was taken away so suddenly. I will always remember that saturday night that i called and he wouldn't let me off the phone. Nicki wasn't home and we talked and talked for hours about traveling and all the places that he wanted to see. He will be greatly missed by this family but never, ever forgotten. We will all be a family again some day. Imagine the fun. Thanks Bob, for making Nicki's life a happy one for all the years that you had together. She will cherish them always. And so will we.

Kathy B

March 10, 2002

Dear Mr. Devitt and family and Nicole. Please accept my sympathy on your loss of Bob. As a 1974 graduate of Kutztown (then State College)I feel a connection to the young man who from all accounts was one heck of a guy! All I needed to hear was that Bob played Rugby. Rugby was not played back in our day. My husband graduated in 74 as well. My son discovered the game three years ago. We are planning a trip to Kutztown to see them play.We also plan to donate to the Alumni Association in Bob's memory. "May the love of friends give you comfort and the love of God give you peace".

Robert Devitt Sr.

February 11, 2002

I miss him every day, every minute but I know he is in a better place and will see him again some day. I am very proud to be his father.

Tami Stahl

February 6, 2002

The first time I met "Psycho" was at Kutztown 12 years ago. It didn't take long to realize something very unique about him....he was the life of every party, but rather then enjoying the attention himself, he had an uncanny way of pulling others into the circle of laughter and sharing the joy with them. His "angel", Nichole, had an attraction to him as long as I've been friends with her. I am thankful for the times I had a chance to spend with both Bob and Nicole, and I feel fortunate to have known someone that was so hard to say goodbye too.

Anonymous

January 11, 2002

DEAR LORD BLESS ROBERT P. DEVITT JR.

AND MAY HE REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY

AND FRIENDS..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND

NEW YORK AND MAY WE NEVER FORGET

9/11/01...AMEN

Teresa Jahn

January 5, 2002

America Cries

We see your sorrow-

and our hearts cry....

We can not erase your pain

but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-

-the American people-

are beside you.

We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,

the strength that gives you courage,

and the words to lighten your spirits.

And when we are left speechless

may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts

to ease your sorrow.

May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-

-the American people-

face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn

Dixon, IL

Lisa Boggs

December 28, 2001

I met Bob and Nicki in 1998. They moved in next door to me in Plainboro, New Jersey. Everytime I think of Bob, I find myself smiling. He made me laugh.

I am very fortunate that he was in my life for that short amount of time. I look forward to seeing him again someday.



Love and miss you lots Psycho!

jenny Crawford

December 26, 2001

I had the pleasure of knowing Bob through Nikki. Iam proud to say I will always have the honor of remembering Bob, and his funny ways. He came from a great family and lived his life with a great women, something that many of us are still striving to achive. Although I am saddend that I will never share the company of Bob in this life time agin, I belive the time I spent with him is enough to bring joy, smiles, and "good advice" to last me a life time! Thank you Nikki for bringing Bob into my life too.

Gary Esposito

December 23, 2001

Bob was a true friend. He will be missed.

Meredith Cleasby

December 18, 2001

Dear Friends and Family of Robert,



My mother sent me a touching Christmas gift this year. Each day, I now wear a silver bracelet engraged with Robert's name on it. His name was randomly chosen for me. While I did not know Robert, I feel somehow connected to all that share in this loss. Thank you for letting me know what kind of person Robert was--I will wear my bracelet proudly.

Nicole LeMaster

December 1, 2001

Bob was my boyfriend of nine years. More accurately, he was my best friend. He truly loved his job and was proud to work in the World Trade Center for Cantor Fitzgerald. If you met Bob only one time, you knew what he was truly like. There was no second guessing what he thought or felt about anyone or anything. Everyone knew where they stood with him. I miss Bob more than I could ever express in words, but am comforted in knowing that he died doing what he loved to do...work in the financial capital of the world! His strength of character helps me deal with his death and remember him with laughter. Thank you to all of you who pray for Bob and all the victims of 9/11.

leslie miller

October 30, 2001

Please know that, all over the country, people care. You're never far from our thoughts and prayers.

Vincent Minerva

October 19, 2001

I worked at Cantor with Bob Devitt.

He was a gentle man and worked very diligently at his job.

I'll pray for him for the rest of my life, and all of those dear friends of mine who perished so tragically.

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January 2, 2025

John Pedicone posted to the memorial.

September 10, 2023

Your Brown-Eyed Girl, Nicole posted to the memorial.

September 11, 2022

Wendy Sandifer-Stech (formerly Stech) posted to the memorial.