Robert Potrzeba

Robert (Zebo) Potrzeba
Barre, VT
With heavy hearts, the family of Robert (Zebo) Potrzeba announce his passing on March 13, 2025 after a brief illness. Robert was born February 11, 1954, in Brooklyn, NY to Walter and Jean (Cox) Potrzeba. He graduated from Spaulding High School in 1972. He began his career at Howard Johnson's Restaurant in Barre, VT, where he made many lifelong friends. Later, he owned and operated Bob's Deli on the Barre-Montpelier Road. For the past 28 years, he worked with much dedication as a Residential Foster Parent for WCMH/DCF. Many of the youth stayed in touch with him over the years and expressed their gratitude to him. He was very touched by this and happy to know he made a difference in their lives.
He is survived by his beloved son, Luke Potrzeba and his wife Erin of Amherst, NH. He was a devoted grandfather, known as "Poppio", to Maeve, Charlotte and Harrison Potrzeba, all of Amherst, NH. He is also survived by his siblings, Nanci Calderwood and her husband, Thomas of Gulfport, FL, Bernard Potrzeba and his wife, Rachelle of Hyde Park, NY, and Laurette Edmunds and her husband Randy of Barre, VT as well as many nieces and nephews, all of whom loved and looked up to him. He leaves behind many friends and loved ones, including his former wife, Beth O'Hagan Fortin of Hinesburg, VT.
He was predeceased by his parents, and his beloved sister, Linda Ann Kilburn. Bob led a full and happy life. He leaves a legacy of love and kindness. The world was certainly a better place with him in it and he will be greatly missed by all that were fortunate enough to know him. Arrangements are in the care of Guare & Sons Funeral Home of Montpelier, VT. A private family service will be held later. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bob's memory to Amy's Armoire in Barre, VT, who assist foster families in the community.