Robert J. "Bobby" Salvatore

ROME - Mr. Robert "Bobby" J. Salvatore, age 80, passed away, in his home, on Sunday, January 5, 2025.

Born in Utica, on March 19, 1944, Robert was the son of the late Jerry D. and Lena R. (Cannarelli) Salvatore. Bobby was a proud graduate of the New York State School for the Deaf in Rome. He even devoted some of his time to teaching sign language.

Bobby was once a softball umpire for the MUNY Leagues in the Utica/Rome areas, where players affectionately called him "BoBo the Ump." He was a talented upholsterer as well and worked alongside Dave Young in Rome. Bobby also cooked at the Franklin. He learned the art of making pastries from his father and his family was always delighted when he brought delicious pastries to them.

A free spirit, he was the architect of his own story. He lived boldly and bravely. He was known to family for finding ways of bestowing small acts of kindness upon them, even when it was not asked of him. He was approachable and loved a good laugh. Young people were drawn to his genuine kindness and great sense of humor.

He had a vibrant energy and made the best of life. He encouraged people to learn the art of sign language and was especially patient with teaching children who showed an interest. Even though he was deaf, he understood and appreciated the vibration of sound.

He shared a very close bond with his great-great-nephew, Jackson, due to their hearing impairments. He enjoyed seeing Jackson and his family when they visited from Florida.

Bobby loved sports and rooting for the New York Yankees and the New York Giants. He also enjoyed horse racing, a good game of pool and playing poker at the casino.

Bobby is survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Richard L. and Jean Salvatore. He fondly remembered his twin brothers, Ronald and Alan Salvatore, as well as his sister and brother-in-law, Mary Ann and M. Frank Sack, all of whom preceded him. His loss is also felt by his nieces and nephews, Rebecca "Becky" Salvatore and Kesha, John J. Sack, Lynne and Mike Roberts, Richard, Jr. and Amy Salvatore, Sonya and William Mitchell and Angelina and James Broome; great-nieces, great-nephews and several cousins; and many cherished friendships that helped make Bobby's life light and fun.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, January 19, 2025, from 3:00-4:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave., Utica. Robert's funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence at 4:00 p.m. at the funeral home. For those unable to attend, you may be present virtually at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88659162884. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions, in Bobby's honor, may be made to the New York State School for the Deaf in Rome by mail to 401 Turin St., Rome, NY 13440 or the Usher Syndrome Coalition online at www.usher-syndrome.org/make-an-impact/donate; envelopes will also be available at the funeral home.

Fond memories and messages of encouragement may be shared at www.EannaceFuneralHome.com.