Robert Barone Obituary, Death – Robert Barone bravely battled prostate cancer until his passing on October 29, 2023, when he passed away with dignity. In addition to being Caroline’s fifty-year friend, he was the loving “Jeep” of his grandchildren and the dedicated father of Ryan, Ellena, Audrey, and Elise. Nick Gibbs, was also Rachel and Bethany’s father.
His sisters, Caroline, Lark, Kristine, Bernadette, and Monica, and brothers, Stephen and Matthew, survive him. His close friends, nieces, and nephews all had fond memories of him. Up until his retirement, Rob served as president of Barone and Sons, Inc. Together with his siblings, he expanded their father’s modest appraisal business into the region’s biggest residential appraisal company. He served as president of the local section of the Value Institute for two years and was well-known around the country for his expertise in relocation value.
The number of appraisers he had instructed and guided over the years thrilled him the most. Rob completed his education at Saint Elizabeth Elementary School, Washington and Jefferson College (class of 1973), and Baldwin High School (class of 1969). He was selected for the all-conference roster of the Washington & Jefferson wide receiver team due to his exceptional performance.
His lifelong loves were softball, basketball, tennis, golf, and football. He continued to be a devoted fan of the University of Pittsburgh athletics department and Pittsburgh’s professional sports clubs. Furthermore, Rob took great pleasure in watching his son and granddaughters participate in sports and spent a lot of time mentoring budding athletes. Rob is a huge music lover as well. He likes to listen to music with friends. He was a living, breathing archive of rock music lyrics and historical background.
He taught himself how to play the guitar, and he was generally the one leading the lively sing-alongs at family get-togethers. Rob’s greatest gift was his ability to connect with people and positively impact those around him. Rob was genuinely kind and courteous, and he saw the best in everyone. Making a youngster feel special, assisting a young person in advancing in their studies or job, or just being a friend’s support system brought him the most joy. He was a never-ending source of inspiration, love, and support for his family. On Saturday, November 11, 2023, at 11:00 AM, Bower Hill Presbyterian Church will have a memorial ceremony honoring his life.
