Robert Grbelja

Robert Grbelja, 91, of Paramus, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on January 27, 2026. Born on a small island off the coast of Croatia, Robert came to the United States at age 14 following World War II. He attended school in New York City and worked various jobs before proudly enlisting in the United States Navy at 18.

While on leave, Robert met his future wife, though both were born on the same Croatian island. They married on November 30, 1957, and later settled in Paramus, where they raised their family and created lifelong friendships. Their home became known for its warm holiday gatherings, especially the beloved Christmas Eve "Night of the Seven Fishes."

After the passing of his wife, Robert continued to live independently for many years. When the time came he was blessed with the companionship and support of kind and loving caregiver who helped him remain comfortable and independent in his own home. For the last two years of his life, he resided at Sunrise Assisted Living of Paramus, facing aging with grace and his trademark quiet humor.

After a long career working with asbestos insulation and developing asbestosis, Robert far outlived expectations, a testament, many said, to his strong Croatian spirit. He passed surrounded by love, and with "no regrets," as he often expressed.

Robert leaves behind a family who adored him and a legacy of resilience, gratitude, and devotion.

Cherished husband of the late Rose Grbelja (nee Antich). Loving father of Thomas and his wife Christine Grbelja, Laura and her husband Karl Rausenberger, Diane and her husband Marc Passarelli; grandfather of Kristin and her husband Conor Gelches, Charles and his wife Mayra Rausenberger, Emily and her husband Neil Brady, Taylor and her husband Alex Kanderis, Thomas Passarelli, Michael Passarelli; and great-grandpa to Harrison, James, Cian, & Lilyana. Predeceased by his brother, John Grbelja.

Family will receive friends on Friday January 30, 2026 from 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm at the Vander Plaat Memorial Home, 113 South Farview Avenue, Paramus, NJ. Funeral Service will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at the Vander Plaat Memorial Home, Paramus, NJ. Entombment will immediately follow at George Washington Memorial Park, Paramus, NJ.

Memorial contributions in Memory of Robert & Rose Grbelja can be made to:

PARAMUS COMMUNITY PANTRY

105 N FARVIEW AVE

PARAMUS NJ 07652

or

Muscular Dystrophy Association

1425 Jefferson Road; Ste 19

Rochester, NY 14623