Robert "Bob" Chardavoyne

Robert “Bobby” Chardavoyne (also known as Bob, Rob, Poppy, Uncle Bobby, Red, and Chad) passed away on the evening of February 4, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones while some of his favorite songs played. Born on July 16, 1948, to William and June Chardavoyne, Bobby grew up on Long Island the oldest of four children. His passion for music was undeniable, forming his first rock band as a teenager—a love that would follow him throughout his life. Bob dedicated over 30 years of service to the Village of Malverne DPW, where he eventually retired. He also spent many seasons working in the fields of Grossman’s Farm and took great pride in his time with the Malverne Fire Department. Deeply affected by the tragic events of 9/11, Bob’s patriotism ran deep.

After retiring, Bob and the love of his life, Florence, moved to Florida to be closer to their adult children and the growing family. Never one to sit idle, he took on a part-time job with Admic Electric, and most of his earnings went toward his ever-growing music collection—because, in his words, “you can never have enough.” Bob had a green thumb, impeccable penmanship, a flair for holiday décor, and an undeniable talent in the kitchen. He prepared for every gathering well in advance, always ensuring there was more than enough to go around. His vast knowledge of random facts, his quick wit, his love for jokes and storytelling made him the kind of person people gravitated toward. He could recall fun facts about musicians, songs, and history, and never missed an episode of Jeopardy.

Much of his time was spent in his garage, where he kept a watchful eye on the neighborhood, jotted down notes, and, most importantly, listened to his music. Bob took great pride in making and sharing custom CDs, carefully listing every song and artist by hand. Though he knew CDs were becoming obsolete, it brought him joy to make these for others. Recently, his family discovered that many neighbors affectionately referred to him as “Mr. Music”, a name earned by his kindness and passion for sharing the songs he loved.

For over 20 years, Bob was also known as "Mr. Halloween." As early as summer, he would begin planning his ever-growing display, carefully selecting new additions to his collection. Each Halloween night, his home became a local attraction, drawing visitors of all ages, even from other neighborhoods. One particularly touching moment came from his last Halloween when a mother stopped by to take a picture of him. She shared that her son, who had visited every year as a child, was now away serving in the Army. In 2023 he received heartfelt thank-you notes from strangers who had admired his display for years— these gestures that meant the world to him.

Bob also had a soft spot for animals, especially dogs. His faithful companion, Holly, was always by his side in the garage, and he was the first to volunteer to care for friends’ and neighbors’ pets when needed. Christmas was another of Bob’s favorites, a love inherited from his father. He would set up his Santa collection; some dressed as Irishmen, others as firefighters, and even Patriotic ones, while adding keepsakes from his own childhood.

He hosted family gatherings throughout the year in his home which became annual events for his ever-growing family. Every March, he honored his Irish roots by preparing a St. Patrick’s Day feast, always making sure to have Bailey’s Irish Cream on hand. He also took on the Fourth of July celebrations where his brownies and pasta salad were always requested by all the grandchildren. A few years back, Bob started a "Welcome to the New Year" family dinner where he and his wife took the group out to a local restaurant. His final gathering, on January 7, 2025, had all 27 of his local family members in attendance. As always, he came prepared—with plenty of quarters for the little ones to stay entertained.

A quiet helper, Bob never sought recognition. He would check on neighbors after storms, leaving supplies on doorsteps without a word. He still believed in old-school values—tipping service workers, greeting store clerks by name, and making weekly calls to family just to check in.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Patrick, and countless dogs he loved throughout his life. He leaves behind his wife of over 34 years, Flo, his children Linda (JB), Cher (Adam), Bill, and bonus son Paul, a whole rock band of grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. His also leaves behind his brother Ken (Paula) and sister Leslie (John), Sister in law Carol, nieces and nephews as well as extended family members.

In the famous words of one of his all-time favorites: "Take your time, don’t live too fast. Troubles will come, and they will pass." Bob was consistently, unapologetically himself—same hair, same style, same passions, year after year. He was content with very little—but he left behind so much, just a Simple Man.

A service will be held for family and close friends on Sunday February 23, 2025 at 2pm at the Life Event Center at Florida Memorial Gardens. The address is 5950 South US Highway 1, Rockledge, Fl 32955.

A Celebration of Life Party, open to family, friends and friends of the family will be hosted by Bob's children and grandchildren at Wickham Park. Please join us Sunday March 9, 2025 noon until Sunset at Pavilion 4 (large one in the back).