Robert J. Fitzsimmons

Robert J. Fitzsimmons, 80
Active in the Staten Island community, known for helping others
Robert J. Fitzsimmons, 80, passed away peacefully on July 17, 2019, in Staten Island, N.Y.
He was a retired Merchant Marine, engineer, and real estate broker; mention real estate and Bob Fitzsimmons is sure to come up. Since 1977, Robert founded and operated Gateway Arms Realty Corp., a family-owned and operated full service real estate company, with his wife of 39 years, the late Barbara L. Fitzsimmons (nee Pratnicki), along with son, Robert Fitzsimmons Jr., and daughter, Laura Volsario.
Equally important to Bob and his wife was their altruistic commitment to the Staten Island community, including the Real Estate Board of New York, The Staten Island Board of Realtors, a founding member of the board of directors of the St. George Theatre Restoration Inc., where he played an instrumental role in the gifting of the theatre to Mrs. Rosemary's Richmond Dance Ensemble Inc., and The Seamen's Society for Children and Families.
Bob was an active member of The Staten Island Chamber of Commerce for over 40 years, where he chaired the Legislative Affairs Committee for 10 years. Additionally, he was a chairman of the finance committee and board member of the Staten Island Waterfront Festival at the Ferry. He was also a recipient of multiple prestigious awards, including The S.I. Chamber of Commerce Louis Miller Award as well as The Nation Association of Realtor's Magazine Good Neighbor Award, the first Tony Award from the St. George Theatre, The Bill Coull Award, and The Seamen's Society Safe Harbor Award, to name a few.
With his knowledge and expertise in real estate, Bob advised and assisted many new investors, as well as experienced investors, in making successful property purchases. Unsurprisingly, many knew him as the "King of St. George." Bob found helping others was a calling he was always ready to do. His personal and business commitments provided assistance and success to many people over the years.
Bob enjoyed being around the water at his summer home in Toms River, N.J., and thoroughly enjoyed reading, going to the movies, trips to Atlantic City, family gatherings and walking his beloved dogs in Clove Lakes Park.
Surviving are his son, Robert J. Fitzsimmons Jr.; daughter, Laura L. Volsario; granddaughter, Jenna N. Volsario; and grandson, Liam J. Fitzsimmons, along with his sister, Rose Fitzsimmons; son-in-law, Edward D. Volsario Jr.; daughter-in-law, Pooja J. Fitzsimmons, and beloved nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, Robert wishes that friends and family donate to their charity of choice, or to his most cherished, The Seamen's Society for Children and Families or the St. George Theatre Inc.
His children, Laura and Robert, said, "Our father was extraordinarily generous with his endless knowledge, his love and commitment to his family, friends, and community, and will forever be remembered."
Bob Fitzsimmons' arrangements are by Casey Funeral Home, 350 Slosson Ave. Viewing is Saturday from 7 to 9 p.m., and Sunday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m.
Funeral Mass is 10:45 a.m. Monday at St. Teresa's, 1634 Victory Blvd., with burial to follow at St. Peter's Cemetery.

Casey Funeral Home
350 Slosson Ave.
Staten Island, N.Y. 10314
(718) 447-4242