Dr. Robert Gabriel Squillante Jr.

Dr. Robert Gabriel Squillante, Jr.

Dr. Robert Gabriel Squillante, Jr. "Dr. Bob", 62, a remarkable orthopedic spine surgeon whose dedication and work ethic touched countless lives, passed away unexpectedly on July 2, 2023, leaving behind a world forever changed by his compassionate care. In his final moments, he donned his beloved Miami Dolphins jersey, reflecting his passion for both his favorite team and football. Growing up in Hollywood, Florida, Bob's parents paved the way for his journey through life. From an early age, he displayed an unwavering commitment to work and caring for his loved ones. Throughout high school and college, Robert worked a variety of jobs, from bagging groceries to parking cars for wealthy executives. It was during these formative years that he acquired an unbreakable work ethic, an attribute that would define his career.

After graduating from Northwestern University with a degree in Chemical Engineering, Bob embarked on a new venture as a futures trader in Miami, showcasing his sharp intellect and business acumen. However, his true calling awaited him in the world of medicine. Driven by his insatiable desire to make a meaningful impact, he began his studies at University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, followed by a residency at University of Pennsylvania and a fellowship in spine surgery at Cornell's hospital for Special Surgery. After numerous years of study, he embarked on a career as an orthopedic spine surgeon at Fredericksburg Orthopedic Associates in Fredericksburg, Virginia. There, his remarkable skill and unwavering dedication transformed lives, alleviating pain and restoring mobility for his patients at Mary Washington Hospital.

While Bob's professional achievements were undoubtedly remarkable, his brilliance was matched by his down-to-earth nature and sense of humor. For many years he enjoyed hosting fund raiser events for various charities with his wife, Joni at the Oaks, their historic home in Richmond. In the realm of parenting, where responsibility and routine often take center stage, Bob dared to embrace his inner child and play alongside his children with unrivaled enthusiasm. Other parents may have sent their children out to the yard to play, Bob dove headfirst into the world of make-believe and imaginative adventures weaving lifetime lessons. No beach trip was complete without Bob joining his children and their cousins in the playful embrace of the ocean's waves and digging holes in the sand.

Bob's love for learning and sharing knowledge was evident throughout his life. From a young age, he devoured newspapers cover to cover, keeping himself abreast of current events. His daily walks served as opportunities to engage family members with his captivating tales and enlightening discussions on the books he had read and current events. In his retirement years he cherished his time with his sisters who he loved dearly and parlayed his adolescent pranks into competing with them in his annual Squillante Family Olympics. In retirement, he also enjoyed connecting with friends and classmates from various phases of his life. His generosity of intellect fostered a deeper connection with his loved ones, allowing them to grow alongside him.

Dr. Bob's unexpected passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew him. Yet, his legacy of excellence, intellectual curiosity and childlike spirit will forever guide and inspire us. As we bid farewell to a cherished husband, father, brother, friend, let us remember the immeasurable impact he had on the lives he touched. May his soul find eternal peace.

Bob was predeceased by his mother, Catherine Ann Squillante and his father, Robert Gabriel Squillante, Sr. He is survived by his devoted wife, Joan Bellefield Davis; his son, Nicholas Squillante; daughters, Catherine Squillante, Julia Squillante and Lily Goodman; sisters, Alice Leone (Steve) and Jane King; his lifetime friend, Robert Taylor; a faithful dog, Mike, and numerous friends and family members.

On Tuesday, July 11, 2023,, the final viewing and visitation will be held from 1 until 2 p.m. and the service will be held at 2 p.m. at Bliley's Funeral home, 3801 Augusta Avenue, Richmond, VA 23230. After the service, a celebration of life will be held at The Boathouse in Rocketts Landing, 4708 E. Old Main Street Richmond, VA 23231 (VALET PARKING AVAILABLE). In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to ACTS, 1518 Willow Lawn Dr Ste 201, Richmond, VA 23230, https://actsrva.org/.