Bobby. You will be with us as long as memory lasts. Faith

Can’t believe it’s five years since this magnificent man left us. Those who knew and worked with him cherish the memory of that time.  We were so lucky to have known him. Love you forever, Bobby. 
Andy Herkus

Seems like yesterday we heard the news of Robert’s passing.   Sadly missed .  Thinking of sally and family at this difficult time,

Bobby - Always remembered and missed. Still a role model.  Rest in peace.  Faith

Missing you every day.   You left a void that can never be filled again.  Praying for you and your family.  Requiem aeternum.

We still miss you. You were one of a kind. With fond memories, Faith Colish 

Bobby:  We miss you and think about you all the time.  You are always with us.  Love, Faith

When I started at Neuberger Berman 4 years ago, I was seated right across from Bobby's office. As someone junior in their career, and new to the finance industry, I felt intimidated and out of my league. I'll never forget first meeting Bobby and waves of relief that soon followed - it was truly a warm welcome and though we didn't actually work together, he immediately made me feel like I had an ally. 

Bobby was the heart, soul, and joy of the firm and of the 29th floor where we sat and he was a genuine connector. He was the only one who "managed" the candy jar and would frequently give me some cash to run down to Duane Reade to fill it up. That small jar caused people all over the floor to congregate around it and chat throughout the day connecting people from different departments and walks of life. 

In the summertime, he instituted ice cream Fridays and they were always my favorite days. He'd send a couple of us out to grab big ice cream bins and we'd come back and take a few moments out of the workday to catch up. He always drew a crowd with he stories he told but never let the attention linger on himself for long, always making it a point to ask others about their personal lives. 

Bobby would frequently come out of his office to take a quick break, he'd walk over to where all the more junior desks were, and he'd crack a joke, ask us how we were doing, or share a story.  One joke I wrote down one day went like this "What do you call a magic dog?" "A labra-cadabra!" It was through little moments like this that he created something bigger than himself, he created a culture - a culture of kindness, empathic, sincerity and fun. It was infectious. 

He taught me lessons that I will make every effort to embody and to continue to pass on to those around me.

My deep condolences to the Conti family for such a tremendous loss. He always talked about you all and proudly shared photos. 

Dear Conti Family,
     
        I was deeply saddened to learn  of Bobby’s sudden and untimely passing.  I first met Bobby a few years ago when I was asked to join the Neuberger Berman Mutual Funds Board of Trustees. From our first dinner together, I realized that Bobby was both an exceptional business leader and a warm and wonderful human being. My admiration for him only grew over the few years we knew each other. I will always feel fortunate that I had the privilege to know and work with such an extraordinary man.

        When Bobby decided to step down from his position at Neuberger Berman and devote himself more fully to his philanthropic passion, we had a long conversation because I too had retired from a financial services company for the same reason.  That conversation was one of the most enriching conversations I have ever had and it revealed the depths of Bobby’s compassion and commitment to doing the hard work of repairing our broken world.

       I pray that the love and support of your family and Bobby’s many friends will continue to provide comfort to you.  May Bobby’s memory be a blessing to you always.

        With deepest sympathy,

           Marc Gary

Bobby made a big impact on my work life, and my personal life.  He was incredibly smart, great with people, a leader, ethical and loving.  His friendship made my life better.  I miss him tremendously.  I hope he is in Heaven enjoying concerts at their version of the Blue Note.  We often talked about jazz, among many other things. But most of all, we talked about family, which he valued more than anything else.  

All our love to the Bobby and the family.

Andy and Genny Allard

To Sally  joe and johhny i am deeply sorry for ur loss this tremendous tragedy . For the few times that i was in his company he was a gentleman and a pleasure to be around  and from what here he was always there to help people any way he could mostly through  charities.. So may god bless ur family and help u get through this Toughest of times ❤......  Rip Bobby

To the Conti Family,
Sally, Joey and Gianni.  I am so  sorry over your loss. I am another 21 year veteran of Neuberger who worked with Bobby and can vouch for all the wonderful things people are saying about him. He was a legend in business topped only by his outlook on humanity and care for his fellow workers. 
In addition to our relationship at Neuberger, Bobby and I realized we had another bond together. We both attended La Salle Academy  in the 70's, I one year his senior. We knew many of the same people from the lower east side and we were constantly reliving stories and updating each other.
During the past 2 years, Bobby and I have been discussing my upcoming retirement and the west coast of Florida. He gave me places to visit such as Tarpon Springs, Treasure Island etc. The last conversation I had with him was that I was probably going to settle down in Sarasota. And that would mean we could get together every so often, family with family or even just 2 old La Salle men going out for dinner or jazz clubs or baseball games or whatever. I was really excited at that prospect. I cannot believe he will not be a part of my life these next few decades. 
As bad as I am feeling, my pain is nothing compared to yours. I am deeply sorry for your loss. There is a special place in heaven for Bobby.

Having the good fortune of meeting Robert Conti only once I realized immediately what a good husband and father he was. Sally, my deepest condolences to you and the entire Conti family. May the good Lord watch over you while you go through the emotional pains of his sudden passing.

Mrs. Dorothy Workowski

Dear Conti Family:  

We have not yet met in person but I feel I know you.  Bobby was so proud of you and spoke about you often and with the greatest affection.  I was hoping to be able to be with you to honor his memory and share recollections with you and his many, many friends.  Unfortunately that has not been possible.  However, Bill Peterson has told me about the plans to formalize a charitable organization to carry on Bobby's wonderful work with young people.  I am honored that Bill has suggested that I play a role in that organization, and I hope that this will give me a chance to get to know you better.

In the meantime, please accept my deepest condolences.  My sister, a devout Catholic, has assured me that she is remembering Bobby in her prayers.

Sincerely,

Faith Colish

Bobby Conti was a calm, confident, charismatic and intelligent man who always treated others with kindness and dignity. He was a philanthropist who always went above and beyond to help others. Even though Bobby has passed away, the impact he left on his family and friends will live on forever. He will truly be missed. My condolences go out to Sally, Giancarlo, and Joseph.


Dear Conti Family,

 Our hearts are heavy with burden and sadness.  The awesome  memories Bobby gave his family will provide you strength to honor an outstanding husband, brother, father and future father -in -law. We (Arielle's Uncle and Aunt) have not met the extended family but through  Arielle we have met Joe.  Bobby's charming personality, dedicated drive, love and unselfishness is evident in his son Joe. Bobby is alive in everybody  he has been in contact with.  His son Joe will continue to carry his torch in life. Please know that we will continue to pray for you and your family.

Love,
 Kevin and Kris Carlson
Lutz, Florida


Dearest Sally and Family:
I am absolutely heartbroken.  Bobby was really one of a kind.  And, I emphasize "kind."  There is no one I've met who was more passionate and caring than Bobby.  His love for people and care for doing the right thing was felt in everything he did and by everyone he touched.  He was such a wonderful partner.  I first met him when I became the COO at the Staten Island Mental Health Society in 2005 and we continued our partnership when  I was named CEO in 2012.  He served on the Board of Directors of the Society for many years and at one critical point was the Chair of our Board.  I believe his connection to the Society started much earlier -- I think he attended our first Head Start Program in Dongan Hills.  His support and enthusiasm for the Society was unwavering.  His guidance and mentoring were unprecedented.  His passion for people, particularly the under-served, was unyielding -- just think of what he was trying to accomplish for the underprivileged youth of Tampa.   He became a close friend and I will miss him.  My thoughts are with you all.
Fern

Thoughts with Sally, Gianni, Joey and all family at this very difficult time. Had the pleasure of Robert's hospitality on nearly all my visits to the States over the years. He genuinely was a great man who had time for everyone! Extremely sad time when someone like this is taken far to soon. Your always be remembered, Lot of love, Dean, Francesca and Henry x

Sending all our love and prayers to you sally and family. We saw Robert back in March and he took me to my first jazz club, what a experience he made it for me and my wife, that is a memory  I will always have. His passion and enthusiasm for jazz was shining through as we sat and listened to the saxophone play.  Thank you for the memories. Lots of the love, from across the pond xx

Dearest Sally and family,

All The Marino Family‘s are so very sorry  to hear of Bobby’s passing.  What a heartbreaking loss.   
Sending to you Sally, your children and  family, Julie/Joe......and all who new and loved Bobby, our deepest sympathies.   
May you find some comfort in your beautiful memories.   God be with you all!!!
Rest In Peace Bobby, back in Gods hands. 
Much Love,
Gary and Denise Marino and all our family 


The news of Robert passing is such a shock, whole family devestated that such a lovely man has gone.  Robert was like the brother l never had, only distance kept us apart.  We are thankful we got to see him a few years ago when we suprised him at a dinner table.   

I’ve been trying to write in this box for days now, and I still can’t find the right words. I was blessed enough to know and be a part of Bobby’s family for a little over 3 years, but from the moment I met Joe I knew he had amazing parents, and once I fully got to know them that was an understatement. Bobby always knew what to say, even those hard moments like these no one has words for or when you’re having the worst day, he just knew. He always knew what l to do. He was everyone’s rock. Everyone’s comedian. Everyone’s mentor. I have never met any one more  caring, kind, respected, and so true to himself. You read all these stories on here with so many lives he changed and affected and it’s incredible because he truly was the same person at home, and at work, because to him everyone he cared about was his family. All our family dinners consisted of such amazing stories about not just his life, his family but most importantly, the stories he told us about others. He cared so much about others. My mom was a single mother so i didn’t have a father, but he made sure I knew what it felt like the moment i started dating Joe. There are so many memories and moments i will forever cherish. So much advice, knowledge and wisdom he gave me not just as an individual but joe and I together, and anyone who knows Sally, Joe or Gianni personally knows his light shines in them beyond and that light is something Joe and I will be pass on to our own children. He will live on through us forever. One of my favorite quotes is “the purpose of life is making sure you leave earth a better place than before you got here.” And he did. He definitely did. I am honored to take the Conti name in February, and I am honored to be a part of his family. 

I love you, Dad. Thank you everything. 

Bobby was a great guy, bigger than life. He was an icon in our Industry. I will miss his wisdom, his humor and just grabbing a drink or dinner. God bless.

I had the pleasure of meeting Bobby at the start of my NB career over 25 years ago. He described himself back then as a "spaghetti and meatballs" kind of guy and that never changed; he was as genuine as the day is long and true to the core. He was always there to listen and offer both professional and/or personal guidance; you felt heard, supported and ultimately more confident after having shared with Bobby. He will truly be missed.

My heartfelt sympathies to the entire Conti family.

Bobby, my dear dear friend. From our days in college and years on Orchard Street, some 46 years of experiences, friendship and laughter. Building our lives, our wives best friends, we never forgot where we came from. You were always so amazed at how your life turned out, Finally retired, you built a life most men only dreamed about. And all you wanted was to give back. You would say “ what do we have Stevie, maybe 20 good years left, we have to do some good, try and change the world. Your dream was to share your love of baseball and make sure every underprivileged child would get the chance play baseball and learn all that baseball teaches about life. I can actually  hear your voice while tears stream down my face.  I will miss you so very much my friend, your kindness, your warmth, your sense of humor, our talks, our reminiscing. You have always been a great and supportive friend, and your generosity knew no bounds. You were a person to emulate and admire, you were my most successful yet most humble friend. You have been my dearest and best friend since the day we met on the steps of Boylan Hall at Brooklyn College. I love you Babushka, my heart is broken. 
  The only reasonable explanation for your sudden departure is that  God must of had an opening for an Angel. Sweet dreams dear friend... Sleep well

I believe that destiny meant for Bobby and I to meet after some 45 years or so. I was in his home when his father was still alive and we were kids. Only 8 years separated us but I still have many great memories of him as a kid. 
Last year we met in Montreal and Bobby’s warmth and love for his family and friends were quickly apparent during our short time. All has been said about Bobby in the testimonials I have read. All very appropriate . He is dearly missed. He left too soon but his mark is instilled in all of those who   
got to know him. 
Rest In Peace Bobby  

Dear Bobby With all the good you did on earth,I guess Jesus took you to help him.This earth needs a lot of help.I hope to meet you again.  My heart is breaking.    Love you Yor Mother.inlaw Rae

Watching the game tonight, know you’re watching it from heaven. You’ll truly be missed. Prayers to the Conti family.

Sincerest condolences to the Conti family.  At Neuberger, he was our hero too, and thankfully, he knew he was loved.  He brought out the best in us, and he gave us all the very best in himself.  We miss him very much.   

The news of Bobby’s passing is such a loss to so many.  It’s hard to consider the absence of his warmth and kindness, wit and wisdom and his always setting the course for doing the right thing for any and all – be they family, friends, colleagues, clients or someone he just met.

The very first time I met Bobby, after warmly introducing himself, he told me “if you need anything, you let me know right away and I’ll take care of it” – that was Bobby.  Offering a helping hand to a new colleague.

I consider myself very fortunate to have been able to share much time & many laughs with Bobby.  Over the years, he acted as a mentor - but, more importantly, was a friend.  He will be missed, but those memories will remain.

When I think of Bobby and the way he touched so many, I think about the phrase…”to measure the man, measure his heart.” On that count, Bobby knocked it out of the park.

My condolences to Sally, Gianni, Joey and all of Bobby’s family.

Bobby - Be at peace.


Bobby Conti was like a second father and mentor to me and many people! It is almost like I can hear his voice sharing advice and stories in my ear all the time! He will be sorely missed, but I am blessed to have known such a great person. I will cherish all of the great memories and stories over the years. 

Sending our love and condolences to Sally, Gianni, Joey and the entire Conti family during this time. 

Gone way too soon. RIP Bobby C. 

 

Bobby,

Words can’t describe the character, integrity, and grace in which you lived your life. 

In the hierarchy of emotions that represent the human experience, love is paramount. Simply being in your presence, one could feel the genuine love that you had for family, friends, and anyone who was lucky enough to experience your light. 

This love was contagious - and your daily gestures of kindness touched countless lives - you treated EVERYONE with dignity and respect, and for this, we cherish your memory. 

It is with deep sadness and gratitude that we say goodbye to a dear friend, mentor, and confidant. 

Our thoughts and prayers are with Sally, Giancarlo, and Joe.

Love, 
Gennaro & Nicole Ferrara

Google the word “legend” if you want to learn more about Bobby Conti. Bobby, thank you for giving us all so many great memories to cherish, including your epic holiday parties.  You have been a dear friend and will be deeply missed.  
 
My heartfelt condolences to the Conti family. ~Kristina Fox

I was shocked when i heard the news about the Passing of Bobby...my neighbor for years when i was a kid...he took me to Yankee games that i still cherish to this day....through  great conversation and laughs, Bobby made me smile every time i saw him....

Sally, Gianni, and Joey, 
The Russano family are praying and thinking  of the Conti family....We send our deepest condolences

Rest in Paradise Bobby, you deserve it.

The news of Bobby's passing rocked me to my core.  Here was a man of great kindness, great humor and a never ending love of life.  He was taken from us much too soon.
If you are fortunate in life you come across some of the really good people in this world.  Bobby was one of those good people.  It was my privilege to have known him for so many years.  To have worked with him on a daily basis for over 13 of those years.  To have broken bread with Bobby and Sally.  I feel truly blessed to have crossed his path and I will never forget him.
Rest in God's peace my friend.

Sincere, warm, thoughtful. That was OUR Bobby.

Condolences,

Ted

Dear Robert, my dear cousin, 
My heart aches with sorrow.  
Memories of you and family gatherings come floating through my mind.
Why so soon...
I knew you were special.  You were a great human being.
Dance with your cousins, Robert, in heaven.
You will be forever in my heart.   

I am deeply saddened by the passing of Bobby, he left this earth way to soon.  Bobby will be remembered as the person who truly valued the people around him and their families. He was selfless, thoughtful and one of a kind. Bobby loved his family, cars and the New York Yankees! 

It was an honor to work for Bobby and having him become a part of my life. He will be remembered in my heart forever. 

My condolences Sally, Gianni, Joey and the rest of his family.

Sleep in peace Bobby

Bobby was loved by all.  He was kind, supportive, and generous in so many ways.  He was humble.  He always went out of his way for others, always putting himself last.  He loved his family more than anything, and those that worked for him were considered family.  His admiration for his wife Sally was inspiring.  He gave her credit for the person he became.  He loved his boys and loved sharing their progressions.  He was proud of his family.  

He was like that favorite uncle we all have.  His stories were funny and sometimes hard to believe.   He could crack a joke at the most awkward of times which would relieve all the tension in the room.  His personality was larger than life.

I consider myself to be lucky to have worked for such a great person.  The world will never be the same without him.  

My heart and prayers go out to Sally, Joey, and Gianni, and the rest of the family.  May his memories remind you of the joy he brought into your lives.

God bless.

My deepest condolences.  May he rest in peace and eternal love.

This tragedy has pierced my heart.

Bobby Conti was a gentleman of true character with a gigantic heart and wisdom for the ages.  Business decisions were easy for him, but he often agonized about impacts on the people.  Bobby cared about people in a way that was authentic.  He did not wrap ideas into shiny packages to look good.  He faced adversity with strength and competence and a resolve to do what is right.

Bobby was known for Good Deeds.  And his Good Deeds were accomplished with the Best Intentions.  He never forgot his roots or his great love for his parents, his lovely wife Sally and his terrific sons, Gianni and Joey.

It was an honor to work with Bobby for more than 13 years.  His life was too short but his legacy was vast and impactful.  When we think of Bobby, we will surely remember the teamwork, the concern and the humorous wisdom.  Most of all, we will remember that we adored Bobby. The world is a better place because Bobby was in it. 

May God bless Sally and the family at this time and give you peace.  May Bobby’s love and compassion always fill your hearts.

Rest in God's Peace, Dear Bobby.

Bobby was the nicest, most colorful, giving and competent person I have ever had the pleasure to meet and work with.   He was uniquely authentic.  My heart has been very heavy since I heard of our loss on Friday morning.  Whenever I was in a funk I could stop by Bobby’s office.   Stacks of paper everywhere but he ALWAYS made time. He didn’t always make me feel better but I knew he would make me laugh.  
I loved Bobby and will miss him very much. 
Brian Gaffney

So very sorry to hear of Bobby’s passing. We have worked at Neuberger  for over 3o years  and experienced many good good times and success. A true gentleman and a friend to all. He will be sorely missed and never forgotten. RIP my friend until we meet again. 

OBITUARY

Robert Conti

July 24, 1956 – July 23, 2020

Casey McCallum Rice South Shore Funeral Home

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Past Services

Visitation

Funeral Service

Committal Service