Robert Neil Laberta

If you're about to play it safe, stop. Consider Robert Neil Laberta, you probably know him as Bobby or Big Bucks Bob, who entered into eternal life Wednesday.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his stepsiblings, Thomas Irving, John Irving and Rose Irving Dziak.

His caring spirit is carried on by his wife of 33 years, Mary Ellen Peterson Laberta and his son, Robert Neil Laberta of Mifflinville, as well as his sister in-law and brother in-law, Miriam and Alexander Kosatschkow, along with his nieces and nephews who all provided loving care, humor and comfort in his final days. We were all blessed to learn many valuable lessons from Bobby during his 71 years, among them, "If the opportunity comes, take it."

Born into the world in Hazleton on Feb. 24, 1946, to Margaret McAndrew and Neil A. Laberta, he not only preached those words, but lived them.

Serving as a sergeant in the Army following his high school graduation in 1964, he began his wild ride through life, taking advantage of each opportunity to come his way. Attending Penn State University, he later applied his knowledge and drive to become a successful businessman, which included being a licensed real estate agent; an independent insurance agent; and finally, owner of RNL Enterprises & Z-Sweeper Guy, with offices in Pennsylvania, Delaware and Maryland.

When he wasn't busy making money, he liked to spend it, preferably in Las Vegas, where you could catch him rolling dice with lady luck by his side. A modern day Davey Crockett, he loved the outdoors, hunting, fishing, trapping and camping throughout the United States. He also loved Reese's peanut butter cups, his howling beagle buddy "Buster," TV shows about Ancient Aliens and the late night radio show "Coast to Coast AM." He hated tomatoes, milk and wasted opportunities.

Bobby has left detailed instructions for his wife, child, family and friends to celebrate his mission which is now complete - "Save your money. Live life to the fullest every day. Work hard and never forget that family is everything." He also noted to never forget that "fire is your friend" and "in the beginning there was a word. The word was beer ... and it was good!"

Private funeral services for Bobby will be held by his family, with interment following in Mount Zion Cemetery. To leave a condolence for his family, please visit www.ringtownfuneral.com. Stauffer-Breznik Funeral Home, Ringtown, is assisting Bobby's family during their time of need.

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