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Robert Rosenthal Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Robert Rosenthal
Dr Patti Britton
November 9, 2023
It has been almost 20 years since my daughter Holliday died of HIV/AIDS in 2004. I posted but my post is missing here! So....I knew Bobby and his mom through Mothers' Voices, our moms' suppport group and the beauty of our shared stories. Bobby was a treasure in my life. He lit up a room, was handsome, charm-personified, smart, and funny as hell. I'll never forget driving us down the Coast Highway in California, in my hot red Miata convertible, top down, along the extreme cliffs near the ocean, and his saying to me, "Slow down. I'm scared. If I die in this car, my mother will kill me!" Such was this one-of-a-kind delight. Miss you, Bobby! xo, Patti
Jeff Rosenthal
November 14, 2008
Bobby
Its been a year already and a day does not go by when I dont think about you for at least a few seconds. Although we could have been much closer, you know I always loved my little brother and when push came to shove, we were always there for each other (You know what I am talking about) I still find it hard to believe your not here anymore, but you have left so many memories that it still feels like your around. I'm so glad we had that nice talk the last time we saw each other. I know your up there watching mom and making her laugh. Lots of people miss you and you wont ever be forgotten.
PS - you need to learn to stop barking when you dont get your way.......we know your inside Beckett somewhere.
Love
Jeff
Suzanne Benzer
November 11, 2008
My dear Bobby,
Today is the anniversary of your passing. Last night I lit a candle for you that is still burning. As I recited the prayer, I thought of how you and Jeff would laugh together each time I lit a candle because I would say the same Hebrew prayer for every occasion. You knew it was the only one I know)
This night was different.
This book has been a celebration of you by those who knew and loved you. They all felt your essence..your sweetness, your wit, your energy, your special way with children and animals, your compassion for the less fortunate, your cheerful nature in the face of so many struggles.
We were a pair and what times we had. I feel as though a part of me is gone...and it is. I still hear your voice saying "What's up" or "Hey it's me" on the phone,
You will be a part of my heart forever my darling boy. I know that you have found peace at last.
Mom
Thank you to Bobby's friends and family who put their tributes in this Guest Book. It have given me much solace to know how many people loved my son.
Suzanne
Ian Lobell
October 30, 2008
Bobby,
I can't believe it has been a year since we last saw each other. I loved your heartfelt words at my 40th Birthday party.....only to receive the tragic news of your death a few days later. You are with me always. You were a great friend. I'm just surprised you haven't haunted me yet. Are you taking a break? Having so much fun? This is unlike you!
Much love,
Ian
Chris Murphy
September 8, 2008
Bobby,
I just learned today of your passing and how sad I am! Thank you so much for all of the work that you did for Body Positive while I was there. I remember being convinced that you were Irish because of your fab sense of humour and that great smile and laughing with you about it. So much fun and so handsome. I hope that your family is healing and that you have found peace.
Peace and with much love,
Chris Murphy
eric benzer
June 21, 2008
my dear brother bob...
i just got to our parents home in amagansett and i can feel your presence and equally feel the void of your absence...driving down further lane i could not help but think about how much i miss my family living in maryland, how old i am getting, how extremely proud i remain of you and your struggle, and how much i miss my brother and friend...i mean really miss my brother and friend...
i am forever reaching for my cell to text you, call you, and smile with you...and still find myself crying in my office during the day...
the baltimore benzer 5 are doing extremely well except for missing uncle bobby, and as JP&S repeatedly said on the drive out here this morning..."why did bobby have to leave us and i wish i could change things for him"...which i think made the entire car cry until we thought of how much you ate and how you seemingly inhaled all types of food and beverages...and then would go upstairs and take a cat nap for EIGHT hours...wake up in the middle of the night and eat all our left overs from dinner the night before...
please know your incredible mom is doing much better than i ever expected, as is my dad...i am working hard to improve my relationship with your mom and despite me not being a blood son to your suzy, i try my hardest to make sure she is fine... and as you and i spoke too many times about i will always take care of her and she will never be alone...regardless of distance, circumstances, or her wishes to the contrary...i promised you that i will always take care of her, and i shall keep my word regarding jeff too...
i send you emails all the time at aol but for some reason they come back unanswered...go figure!
please know we miss you, continue to love you, laugh with you, and forever feel you in our hearts...
with eternal love,
brother eric
Suzanne Benzer
March 15, 2008
My dear Bobby:
Today is your birthday. I remember every moment of the day you were born so well. You were a sweet baby, a darling boy and continued to be so throughout your life. You were a joy to me and those who knew you.
Paul, Claudia, Roger, Laura and I celebrated your birthday together by having dinner and going to see Rent.
We will continue to do so every year.
We remembered your sensitivity, your concern for others, your sense of humor, your intelligence and your love of life,no matter how difficult. We felt your spirit there with us.
I miss you my sweet boy. You will be a part of me forever. You are in my heart and I am thankful for the time we had together. I pray that you are someplace beautiful and you are happy and finally at peace.
Mom
Robert Oakes
February 18, 2008
Words . . . fail me. There is just sadness and hope.
Philip John
January 2, 2008
Bobby -
Forgive me for waiting so long to write this. The truth is that I so did not want this time to come. I've feared and mourned this moment ever since you came home almost 20 years ago and told me of your HIV (you were living with me at the time in L.A.). I wept then as I do now, perhaps because I always knew how much this would hurt. Bobby, you and I didn't so much meet as we collided; two more different people there rarely were - in background and temperament; I was a traditional, reserved, Midwestern kid; and you...well...weren't. Yet, despite the comedic chaos, emotional turbulence, and outright insanity that frequently characterized our lives, you formed a bond with me that - despite your passing - holds me still. Even in times when I shut everyone out, you refused to let me go. I was blessed to have you in my life. I love you, Bobby. And when I get to Heaven, I know you'll have an 18-hour "I Love Lucy" marathon waiting for me.
To Suzanne,
In the times I spent with Bobby, I never saw him light up as much as when he spoke of you. From the Murphy Brown comparisons to the corn-in-the-hair stories, he never tired of expressing to me the gratitude, pride, and love he felt for you.
January 1, 2008
Dear Suzanne,
We knew and loved Bobby since he was a young boy...
In later years he kept his torments private and showed only good humor this his public.
It is a tribute to you, Suzanne, that Bobby was loved by so many and gave so much love in return. You were his hero and we know he was yours.
We will always cherish our memories of his charm and good nature.
With love,
The Frymans, Grossbards and Leiwekes
Jacqueline Beck Rosenthal
December 27, 2007
I am Bobby's "wicked step-mother" or "JAX" as he lovingly called me. Yet not having met Suzanne's family and friends and just not wanting to cry any more, I was a bit apprehensive about the weekend memorial. On the other hand, I wanted to be around all of the people who loved Bobby so I could see him through their eyes. "Bobbyisms" were shared and there was lots of laughter mixed in with our tears. I left with the feeling we were all family---something Bobby always wanted.
Our house always had a more lively presence when he visited Florida. We were one big happy family; enjoying with his step sisters and brothers, Nana, Aunt Sandy,Uncle Zel, lots of cousins and especially Ally and Jared, his niece and nephew. We had great parties and took fantastic cruises together. Bobby was Nana's cabin mate on her 85th birthday cruise. Gave new meaning to the term "odd couple".
I was fortunate to spend a lot of quality time with Bobby and loved his wit, zaniness,and great sense of humor. He loved to make everyone laugh---a trait he seemed to accomplish with ease and panache. He had a zest for life and a passion for all things that were important to him.
I will greatly miss him, but will keep him in my heart forever.
Jax
Roy Rosenthal
December 27, 2007
Dear Bobby,
Well, it’s just past Christmas and very hard to believe over a month has gone by since you left us. I miss talking to you, but am glad we had a chance over the past year to share thoughts about life, love, feelings etc. I'm sorry I did not have a chance to tell you how proud I was of you to see the wisdom you had acquired. It was remarkable.
You would have been honored to see the beautiful, spiritual ceremony your family and friends conducted on the Saturday we went to Vassar. I have a picture of the lake and its shoreline which is even more beautiful now because of you........The ceremony on Sunday at the Gay and Lesbian Center in NYC was a singular event. You would have been so proud listening to the warmth and love from those dearest to you. Had you been there, you would have taken a lot of curtain calls and a standing ovation from over 150 people.
I'll write again and if you can, let me know how you're doing...
Much love, Dad
Paul and Sheila Silverman
December 19, 2007
Bobby - Handsome, intelligent, warm, funny, caring, deep, larger than life. There is so much to Bobby that a paragraph can hardly touch upon - but know that having you, and loving you, and knowing you is a cherished gift that will continue to give for years and years to come. Your life's stories are amazing - some we would all have loved to have experienced, and some we can't even imagine experiencing - but all equaling the sum total of you - and making you the person we love. You will be greatly missed, but will always be greatly loved.
Ronnie Singer
December 17, 2007
Bobby,
I will cherish our friendship forever. I knew you since you were 18 years old and we have been special friends. I looked forward to our phone conversations and e-mails. You were always someone I admired. Your strength and courage was amazing. I know that you are at peace now and not suffering any more. I will miss you and love you always.
Ronnie Singer
Susan and Stanley Sackner
December 14, 2007
We have known Suzanne & Bernie for only a short time but it feels like forever. The few times we were able to be with Bobby were special and we can understand all the wonderful things that others have said about him. The best remembrance we will have of him was the time we were at a family party at a mutual friend's house and Bobby took to our two grandchildren as if he had known them all their young lives. We will miss the opportunity of getting to know him better. Our hearts go out to Suzanne and Bernie for their loss. Susan and Stanley Sackner
Brenda Freiberg
December 12, 2007
Dear Suzanne and Bernie,
We talked so often over the years about our kids and your Bobby who became "our Bobby" to so many of us.
I cannot think of San Francisco or New York or Los Angeles and our old house without seeing him somewhere there.
It seems we walked down so many streets together (except in LA where no one walks). And I'm short so it was Bobby towering over me, but I know that what really towered were his spirit and ebullience and nothing can take that away from any of us who experienced that.
And one of the most beautiful things about Bobby was that knowing him meant that you really knew him - all the facets that we all have - the light, the dark, the everyday. He was one of the most real people I knew because he let me know him.
Thank you for the gift you gave to all of us - your son.
My deepest love to you,
Brenda
Ian Lobell
December 12, 2007
Oh Bobby. How could you go and leave me like this? Who will laugh at me when I am feeling sorry for myself? Who will keep me in check when I’ve gained a few pounds? Who will rat me out to my family when I make poor choices? Who will make me laugh… at my expense and everyone else’s?
Don’t think I didn’t notice that shove as I walked on-stage at your Memorial. I’d have it no other way. We talked about this day for many years and it isn’t nearly as hilarious as we imagined. In fact, it is downright painful. You are sorely missed. There is a great big void in my heart.
Now don’t miss me too much! I am counting on you to keep me alive. We will catch up at a much later date…much later!
You have been a wonderful friend and I am not sure I ever told you how much your friendship meant to me.
All my love,
Robert Lehrer
December 11, 2007
Dear Suzanne,
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. Although I didn't know Robert, I had heard about "Bobby" in lovingly terms since the day he was born.
Ginger Pittman Pistilli
December 6, 2007
Bobby, you were the first friend I met 23 years ago at Vassar. Of the hundreds of unfamiliar faces in the dining hall that first day of school, yours was the brightest, most beautiful and most engaging. In an instant, we were family, and you went about the business of growing our clan by handpicking only the most fabulous and effervescent of friends. I went to sleep that night, and every night since, knowing that I belonged.
We dated for three days. Ha! Well, you gave it a go anyway, but I’ll always appreciate the compliment. In the last 23 years, you have never forgotten my birthday, never forgotten to call me on Mother’s day. You worked hard at making people feel important and loved – I am so deeply sad to lose you. Every time my cell phone rings I think of you, I miss you- your fantastic wit and unfailing loyalty to all of us: fresh-faced, bursting with laughter, so proud to be friends. Love Always, Ginger
bernie & Phyllis Feinberg
December 6, 2007
Susan, Bernie
our hearts are with you during this terrible time....
words can never express the feelings that people have a this tragic moment.
Brian Alper
December 5, 2007
My name is Brian Alper and I was friends with this great guy named Bobby Rosenthal who lived in NY. I have not spoken to Bobby in months and we primarily would chat online although we visited when Id visit NY. I feel foolish asking but can someone clarify if his email was [email protected]?
If this is my friend Bobby, I will be heart broken! We met when I visited NY in 2001 and Booby was my tour guide. We had such a great time. He knew everyone wherever we went and could get us into any club or hotspot. Moreover Bobby was sweet and caring and a beautiful person on the inside and out. I will miss him dearly.
Suzanne Benzer
December 4, 2007
My Bobby:
It is so difficult for me to write to you and realize that you are no longer with me.
I think of my beautiful, magical little boy who grew up to be a beautiful, magical man. You faced your demons with strength and dignity. Your smile and pure sweetness could make those of us who loved you allow you to get away with lots of stuff. We were enchanted with you.
I thank you, for there is no way that I would have known who I am and what I am capable of without you there to guide me.
I know that you have found peace at last. Be happy my angel with those
you love and love you.
Mom
P.S. I'm sure that in whatever wonderful place you are, there is no one telling you to keep your room and your stuff clean and in order etc., etc., etc. Now THAT was your idea of Heaven!!!!!!
Jasmine Nielsen
December 4, 2007
Love Heals, the Alison Gertz Foundation for AIDS Education, is grateful to have had the blessing of knowing Bobby and the honor of partnering with him in empowering young people in the fight against HIV. Our thoughts are with Bobby and his family.
Claudia Sickinger Harris
December 3, 2007
This has been an
unfathomable loss, for which
I was not prepared. Bobby
was one of my oldest and
dearest friends, with my
having met him nearly 23 years ago
during Freshman week at
Vassar. His humor, quick
wit, sharp tongue and love
for his friends and family
were unequalled. He had
struggled for many years,
but had always seemed to
miraculously bounce back. I
feel a huge hole in my life
and heart. Likewise, my
husband Roger and two older
children, who really thought
of Bobby as a fun, funny uncle
feel this loss greatly...We
love you Bobby and wish you
eternal peace. XXX
Liz Smith
December 3, 2007
Bobby loved our kids. Hannah loved his attention and devotion. Fond memories of them splashing in the pool together. We still have photo cards of Hannah that Bobby made for himself to remember her by and for us to have. Bobby, you will be missed. Rest in peace.
sandy
December 2, 2007
Dear Suzanne,
Zel and I (Jackie's sister)wish to extend our deepest sympathies on the loss of your precious son, Bobby. Knowing him has brought so much joy into our lives and our entire family will mourn and miss him terribly. He was such a presence--his intellect, wit, and charm embraced us all. He was so brave and courageous and in spite of his illness his ability to laugh and enchant us was ever present. suzanne,I want to personally thank you for organizing "Mothers
Voices to which I am a member. It has given me strenth and hope. I am sure Bobby is in a better place and busy spreading his thoughts and charm up above. with love and admiration,. sandy and Zel Bernstein
Laura Morrison
December 2, 2007
It's been three weeks since I last spoke to Bobby, and it's finally sunken in that he's gone.
There were lots of times in the 14 years since I met him that we didn't see each other -- we weren't always in the same City or on the same schedule -- but as our relationship deepened, particularly in the past ten years, we were always in touch, we'd always call. If I wasn't there when he called me, then I'd pick up my messages and hear his voice saying, "anyway, it's Bobby, give me a call." Bobby and I helped each other through life, and I counted on more than he probably even knew.
Many years ago, Bobby was the most unbelievably patient and loving friend when I cried for months and months as I went through a protracted and painful breakup. I was a drain on everyone around me, but Bobby never let on. And he was there for me when I finally moved on, rented my own apartment and adopted a dog to be my new unfailing companion.
Bobby was the first friend there when I got home from the pound with the sickly, somewhat scary-looking, pitbull pup. He didn't judge her for a second and she adored him on sight. Ever since, visits from Bobby were a highpoint in her life. Even as she's lost some of the spring in her step, and it's gotten harder for her jump up on the bed, she always managed to make it if Bobby was there to wrestle, snuggle and give her a belly rub.
There are so many things that have come into my mind about Bobby the past three weeks.
Some are ridiculous. Like I always marveled at how Bobby could eat. He was absolutely gorgeous, built like Adonis, but he could pack away food like no one I've ever known. During a particularly good spell in my career, when I had time for leisurely weekday lunches, Bobby was working at SoHo House, a couple of blocks from my office. He'd often stop by before his shift just to hang out or to coerce me to leave for an hour or so for a meal. I'd always be watching my weight, but he could down loaf of bread, an appetizer and entrée, pick at what was on my plate and still be hungry when we got back to the office.
I also used to laugh at how Bobby always left behind traces of his presence. If he didn't forget something major, like his cell phone, his jacket or his bag, then there was other subtle evidence that he'd been around...bits of paper, crumbs or candy wrappers that didn't quite make the trash can.
Bobby was gorgeous, but he was so much more than a pretty face, and it was important for him that people knew it. He took particular pride in the last year or so in being a role model for the young men who used to hang out at the Phoenix, where he played pool. He loved to tell me about how intimidated the young guys were by his good looks and how they assumed he'd be aloof and unapproachable. But he took them under his wing, and played pool with them and talked to them about AIDS and politics, and social responsibility.
Bobby was many things, including an AIDS activist and educator, event planner and organizer, first-rate bartender, self-taught social worker and case manager, a political pundit and news analyst, media critic, friend, and confidant.
When Bobby was focused, Bobby was also a great volunteer and up for any job no matter how large or small. I can't tell you how many times he helped me in my many years working for former City Councilmember and now State Senator Tom Duane. Our needs were intermittent and almost always last minute, but Bobby made the effort to be there, whether it was working the door at a fundraiser, carrying a sign in the LGBT Pride parade, folding and stuffing a mailing in the office, or talking through a particularly complicated entitlements case.
Bobby loved his friends, and he had a lot of them. Some of them I only met once or twice, like Steven and his beloved Paul, and others, like his best friends Ian and Claudia, I've met for the first time just in the past two days but I feel like I've known them for years because Bobby talked about them so often. It didn't matter that our experiences with Bobby didn't overlap, he'd tell me what they were doing, and how proud he was of them, and how much he loved them and how much it meant to him that they were there for him.
Bobby loved his family too, and had fond stories of visits with his brother Eric and his family, and particularly loved being uncle Bobby to Eric's sons. He often talked about his brother Jeff, and had recently told me that though their brotherly relationship was sometimes complicated, he always loved him. He had the highest respect and affection for Bernie and so appreciated how much he sacrificed for him and what a rock he was for him and Suzanne.
And Suzanne was the love that ran through his life. More than just the most unfailingly devoted mother, she was his partner in activism, confidant and best friend. Poz magazine described Suzanne and Bobby as "a dynamic team at AIDSWatch and at other events involving lobbying for AIDS activism on Capitol Hill," and that dynamism extended to everything they did together. Even just going to out lunch with the two of them, I felt the crackling energy between them.
Bobby's life was short but he made it very rich with the love he gave and received. Bobby loved musical theater, and his favorite show was Rent, which spoke so much to his life experience. I wasn't among the people who went him the multiple times he saw Rent on Broadway, but when the movie came out he practically forced me to the theater. I don't think I'll ever reconcile how Bobby's life was cut short, but the song Seasons of Love, from Rent, underscores the richness of all the days he lived. It asks, "...how can you measure the life of a woman or man? Remember the love! Measure in love. Seasons of love!" Bobby – you had so much love, and I'm counting on the memories to help us carry on.
Laura Whitesides
December 2, 2007
Bobby,
I am so glad that we were able to re-connect this past year. There was always a charge in the air when you were around. Your sharp wit and humor always made me laugh. You were so much fun to be around. No matter what mischief you would get yourself into, it seemed that no one could ever stay mad at you. You just had a powerful magnetism that was a gift.
I will miss you my friend and almost brother-in-law.
Laura Whitesides
Brenda Lein
December 1, 2007
I am deeply saddened to learn of Bobby's passing. He had a light within him that shown brightly and he brought joy to those of us whose lives he touched. What a beautiful man, in so many ways, a testament to his parents and family. I hope you all are surrounded by love through this very difficult time. I am blessed and humbled to have known Bobby. - Brenda
Nancy & Steve Beckerman
December 1, 2007
Dear Suzanne and Bernie,
None of us can know the loss you feel from the premature passing of your beloved son, Bobby. He was so handsome and full of life, so courageous and brash, so funny and loving.
When his life changed tragically twenty years ago, you were there for him. You turned his cause into your own, and took the lead. He must have been so proud of you, and known how very dearly you loved him.
Watching you support Bobby while "letting go" through all these years taught all of us so much about tolerance, true love, commitment and dignity. Bobby learned to be heroic by following your example, and we learned something from all of you.
We loved being with Bobby. He always had a big smile and a huge hug for us, with something warm and funny to say. We will especially miss those pleasant summer afternoons just sitting on the beach with you and Bobby. Whether he was reading, sleeping, or talking passionately about something, his presence was deeply felt.
With our love and profound
sympathy,
Nancy and Steve
Tony Fornabaio
November 30, 2007
Bobby has been truly a life long friend to me. I will always be gratefull for having him in my life and continue thru my memories. I have been so fortunate to have been adopted by my loving gay mother Suzanne because of him. LOL
I have had many special moments from our clubbing days when were on the brink of NY night life that was truly magical.
Bobby was truly a genuine diamond in the ruff always so cool sweet and ready to have a good time. He celebrated one of my earlier and most fun birthday parties with me and closest of friends that for the most part are a part of my life today.
This summer Bobby was working at the Soho house and we were able to spend time there and my memories of him in his element will be with me forever. I am very fortunate to have had him this long and God has always put each of us in our lives at the most random times. Never any small talk why we didnt see more of each other just simply happy that we did when we did.
Suzanne and Bernie are a dynamite couple and family to me and should be so proud as the rest of the family to have had such a perfect son, brother and friend no matter the circumstances.
Thanks for letting me share my moments.
Love Tony Fornabaio
carol & Larry Gardner
November 28, 2007
We will never forget your handsome face, your beautiful smile, your warmth, laughter and constant quest for knowledge of all things.
You beat all the odds, and we really believed that like the "eveready battery" you would just keep on beating them.
We will miss you dearly, but our memorise of you will keep you alive in our minds.
We will remember you as the adorable baby you were, the chubby 13 year old with thick glasses who turned into a handsome prince overnight, and most of all as the very special man your were who fought so hard to win his battle,
May you rest in peace. We love you,
Larry and Carol Gardner
Brenda Laribee
November 28, 2007
Bobby was one of my dearest new friends in San Francisco when I moved here in 1992. We worked together on a few AIDS Dance-a-thons, and whatever else we could do to help the cause. He was a bright, shining light in our circles here and I was in awe of his energy and passion. I miss you Bobby!
My deepest sympathy to his family and all of his friends from around the country. This is a very sad loss indeed.
Brenda
Natalie Olstein
November 27, 2007
Bobby will always be remembered by us and our family especially on the 4th of july. Our families would gather and bond over hot dogs etc. Bobby would add so much to these days as he played with the children on the beachand amused us all with his wonderful sense of humor. His kindness was always evident. He was a brave soldier who fought a valient battle with humor and dignity. We remember him with love. Natalie and Harry Olstein
Roz Wolpov
November 27, 2007
Dear Bobby,
I will never forget the day we met you, the pudgy Bar Mitzvah boy with braces, and then a few years later, a gorgeous hunk enters the room. I couldn't believe it was you!! I will never forget the patience you had at my computer lessons! I will never forget you and Julie talking and laughing about your mothers, with love of course! I will never forget the discussions and good times we had at our weekend visits to Mom and Bernie's house in Amagansett! It will never be the same without you. We'll miss you!
To Suzanne,
Bobby was so lucky to have you as his mother! You and Bernie are the best!
We love you,
Roz and Mike
Mort Spitzer
November 27, 2007
To Bobby's entire extended family,
Nancy, Matthew Douglas and I met Bobby only a few years ago, but his character and charm won us over. We spent various happy times with him....at parties and at Thanksgiving dinner. He always added to the joy of these occasions. He will be missed but we hope that the positive memories will help assuage the pain.
Mort, Nancy Matthew, Douglas
Paul Giordano
November 26, 2007
Dear Bobby,
I remember our last phone conversation and how happy you were. We always had something to talk about and you cared so much about whatever was happening in my life at any given moment. Unselfishness is a rarity these days....How you loved children and animals and how kind and gentle you were. My darling, I know you are with the Angels now. Paul xx
Betsy Siebeck
November 26, 2007
Oh Bobby,
Baby Bobby: my first encounter. Toddler Bobby: LA and NY-so very cute
Child Bobby: we connected so quickly and well-Camp Pinnacle, "what do you mean you've fixed your braces with rubber bands?", water skiing, reluctant gardening, "get rid of that Walkman and join the family," Christmases, Thanksgiving (Salem's Lot and little Danny Glick), first night in our new house, etc. etc.
Adult Bobby: so many talks about so many things, so many laughs with senses of humor that understood each other, painful times and great ones and LOVE.
You'll be missed, Bobby-you're already missed.
With so much love,
Aunt Betsy
BERNIE BENZER
November 26, 2007
"BOBBY DID IT" WAS A MUCH USED EXCLAMATION IN THE FAMILY. BOBBY WAS DEFINITELY ONE OF A KIND. BOBBY WAS FOREVER YOUNG.
BOBBY WAS A LOVING SON, HIGHLY INTELLIGENT-READING SHAKESPEARE FOR FUN-DEVOURING THE N.Y.TIMES DAILY & BOOKS-BOOKS-BOOKS.
BOBBY HAD A WONDERFUL SENSE OF HUMOR.
BOBBY HAD A SPECIAL CONNECTION WITH CHILDREN-HE LOVED THEM & THEY RETURNED THEIR LOVE FOR HIM.
BOBBY LOVED OUR CATS-HE LOVED ALL ANIMALS.
BOBBY LOVED & TREASURED HIS COUNTLESS FRIENDS, WHO ALONG WITH HIS FAMILY WAS THE CORE OF HIS LIFE.
FOR THE LAST TWENTY YEARS BOBBY WAS A DAUNTLESS SOLDIER & CRUSADER IN HIS BATTLE AGAINST AIDS.
BOBBY WILL ALWAYS LIVE IN MY HEART!
Janice Tainiter
November 25, 2007
Dear Suzanne and Bernie, We remember having dinner with Bobby at your house. He was charming, bright, warm and welcoming. The fond memories of this encounter will stay with us as we mourn his passing.
With love, Janice and Mel
November 22, 2007
dear suzanne and bernie--
bobby could not have had a better support system than you throughout his stuggle with AIDS. we will miss him very much; he was such a sweet and funny person. we are sure he is at peace...love always, yvette, marc, sam, julia and lily
anita black
November 21, 2007
Little Bobby-I'll never forget you, as little Bobby with your new little glasses you wore and wouldn't change when you got bigger, as little Bobby when we watched Japanesse Television together, as a little bigger Bobby when we went to Rocking Horse dude ranch, and then as a fully grown big Bobby at Christmas with your family so many years ago. Though I didn't see you these last years, I often thought of you with love. Be at peace.
Jeff Rosenthal
November 21, 2007
Bobby
As we always thought, there was to much unsaid between us. But the way we laughed together the last time I saw you on the way to the subway will always be my best but last memory of you. you know that brothers are brothers and I will always love and miss you. We will see each other again, you owe me a pool game
Love
Jeff
eric benzer
November 20, 2007
my dear brother bobby:
you were and will always be a one of a kind brother, uncle, and friend...
i cherished our friendship, our times at the beach, our walks in NYC, the many late night chats on AOL, and your texting and phone calls all hours of the day and night...
you taught me so much about tolerance, family, forgiveness, and love from one brother to another...
our entire family misses you and will always have you in our hearts, minds, and actions...
if you knew all the incredible things people were saying about you…you would love it…because i can hear you saying: "i told you so!"…with that infectious laugh of yours i can still hear...
thanks for the laughs, love, and friendship...and for being such an awesome uncle to simon, jack and paul...and warm and loving brother-in-law to sandi...
we love and miss you always…rest easy my brother…
Arline Altman
November 19, 2007
Suzanne: My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve because I too am aware that there is no bond as great as that between a Mother and Child.
Bobby: You were always very special to me. We did a lot of laughing when we were together..and that was many times at family functions. Back when Gail was alive you two were an item--Masters of Mischief--but oh so funny. What a beautiful couple you made. I hope that you are together now still laughing.
Bobbie you will be forever young, handsome and adorable. Goodbye my friend. I shall miss you!!!
Cousin Toni
November 18, 2007
Hey Bobby, I'm thinking about that adorable, pudgy-cheeked little guy running around your grandparents' home in diapers; the sweet, darling little boy with the cheery smile and the happy wave, the Bar Mitzvah boy, the young man I re-connected with who lit up the dinner table, the charming and kind cousin-once-removed who shared family stories, the man who brought some extra laughter to the world, Bobby, you will be missed and may your memory be for a blessing.
mike
November 17, 2007
bobby: some other organization here in sf recently tried to recreate the dance-a-thon. and while imitation is the highest form of flattery, imitation always means that what is missing is the real thing... in that sense, you are so lucky a man -- no one could ever outshine you when you were shining. which means that when i run across imitations of that way of yours to just absolutely live, it will be most bittersweet.
and you know what? to go back to the afternoon coffee at zuni's and do it all over again, i would. i really would.
to your family, my deepest condolences. and to suzanne, all i can offer is that and this profound inarticulation i have right now. you remain in my thoughts.
Noelle Boyle
November 16, 2007
Bobby, I miss you already and I'm grateful we were able to spend good time together in September. Vassar reunions will not be the same without you. Much love and hugs, Noelle
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