Robert Louis Spadaro

Born on August 4, 1960, in Brooklyn, New York moving to Toms River, New Jersey in 1976. He began his career as a merchant marine, which gave him the credentials to work on tugboats as a deckhand. He worked for the McAllister Brothers in the New York Harbor and also served aboard the Circle Line and the Staten Island Ferry, gaining extensive experience on the waters of New York City.

In 1994, Robert joined the New York City Fire Department and was stationed at Engine 202 in Red Hook. He continued his education and training over the next five years to earn his pilot’s license. In 2000, he became a Marine Pilot, and from November 4, 2000, until his retirement on August 4, 2025, he served aboard FDNY Marine 9, navigating the New York Harbor with skill and dedication.

Robert was also an instructor for the Marine Unit and a certified EMT, training others and providing emergency medical care when needed. As a 9/11 responder, he was always ready to serve the city in its moments of greatest need. He was a member of the Miracle on the Hudson rescue team, and for his vital assistance in that extraordinary rescue, he was awarded a Unit Citation in recognition of his courage and professionalism.

Known for his strength, reliability, and devotion, Robert will be remembered not only for his distinguished service but also for the kindness and integrity he brought to family, friends, and colleagues.

He was an avid beachgoer, NYC Marathoner and a music extraordinaire. He loved rock-music, especially Bruce Springsteen, Los Lobos, the Grateful Dead, and the Allman Brothers. He thoroughly enjoyed attending concerts and sharing his passion for music with those around him.

He was predeceased by his parents, Louis and Collette Spadaro, and his sister, Karen Marie Spadaro.

He is survived by his wife, Diane ; his son Louis; and his daughter Jenna. He is also survived by his sister Diane and her husband Greg; his brothers Stephen and his husband Paul ; Richard; and Thomas and his wife Ellen.

He will be greatly missed by his nieces Diana Priggre and Julia Spadaro; his nephews Kenny and Thomas Macchiaverna and Thomas Spadaro; as well as many great-nieces, great-nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, dear friends, fellow firefighters of New York City, and his lifelong friend, James Proscia.

Robert loved being a New York City firefighter and took great pride in serving his city. His legacy of bravery, service, and love will live on in all who knew him.

• Wake: Wednesday, March 25, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Quinn Hopping Funeral Home, 26 Mule Road, Toms River, NJ 08755

• Funeral Mass: Thursday, March 26, 2026, at 11:30 AM at Saint Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church, 94 Hooper Avenue, Toms River, NJ 08753

• Christian Burial: Following the Mass at Saint Joseph’s Cemetery, 62 Cedar Grove Rd, Toms River, NJ 08753.

Condolences and memories may be shared with the family by visiting www.quinn-hoppingfh.com.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made in the name of Robert Spadaro to team Randy of Toms River by visiting www.teamrandy.com.

Additionally, donations can also be made to the New York Firefighters Burn Center by visiting www.nyffburncenter.com.