John L. Robusto

John was a decorated Korean War Veteran (Airborne) who was awarded a Purple Heart, Combat Infantry Badge and other decorations. A man of God who honored his strong Catholic faith, he was professed into the Third Order of St Francis while serving on Heartbreak Ridge in Korea.

John was a graduate of St. Francis College. He received his Master’s degree from Fordham University and completed his doctoral studies at St. John’s University. He was a professor of Sociology and Anthropology, as well as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and devoted much of his career to caring for individuals with special needs. He was a Chief of Service in the New York State Department of Mental Health, and also served on multiple Presidential commissions for special needs. The Commissioner of Mental Health in New York State recognized him for his passionate advocacy and many years of devoted service.

John was an accomplished musician, who played the trumpet, piano, mandolin and the glockenspiel. He also was fluent in Italian, Spanish, French, studied Latin, and spoke some Korean.

He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Roberta, his four children Linda (Dick), Nancy (Jeannine), John (Sue) and Thomas (April). He also leaves behind ten grandchildren (Ricky, John, James, Lindsay, David, Michael, Grace, Isabella, Sophia, and Sabrina). 
 He made family his priority throughout his life and was a father figure to those relatives he took into his home, Adrienne, Gail, Doug, Rene, and Jackye.

A celebration of life was held on Tuesday 8/22/17 at Fountainhead Memorial Park and Funeral Home in Palm Bay, A mass will be held 10:30 am Monday, August 28, 2017 at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Burial is planned at Arlington National Cemetery. The family asks in lieu of flowers to please consider making a donation to the William Child’s Hospice House in Palm Bay Florida.

Arrangements under the direction of Fountainhead Funeral Home, Palm Bay, FL.