I see I'm a few years late, but I was cooking up a batch of Robert's famous zucchini pasta and thinking of the good times we had back in Bloomington. I was never brave enough to try his incredible Sunday Gravy, but I think I may give it a shot in his honor. You will always hold a special place in my heart, and I will always hold a picture of Robert plugging a bunch more wine into the sauce while grinning his inimitable grin.

Without doubt you are one of the finest men I have ever met. A great friend. I will never drink another glass of Pinot Noir without seeing your face and hearing your laugh. My life and my journey on this earth is better because you were in it. Missing you today!

I met Robert about 10 years ago while at PMG and working with he and Ted Cherrier on the Costco account. Robert was one of those instantly likable guys who went out of his way to show me kindness, and hospitality.... inviting me into his house for dinner and drinks with his lovely wife Michele. He made you feel instantly at home and he is one of life's true gentleman. I feel my life was enriched  by having met Robert and I will cherish the memories of my time with him forever. Rest in Peace Robert!

I will miss my father-in-law dearly every remaining day of my life.  I am so grateful for the Father he was to my husband Rob, the second Father he was to me, and the Papa he was to our 3 children, Anthony (12), Andrew (10), and Annabella (8).  To honor him, I will continue to try to live by Robert's response to Anthony's question, "What is your philosophy of life?' in Anthony's 2011 school interview project.  Robert's response was:  "My philosophy of life is to embrace opportunities that present themselves, spend time with family and friends, work hard, enjoy yourself, treat all people with respect and consideration, and do everything to the best of your ability."  These are the words he lived by every day, and thereby, Robert F. Contreras has and will continue to inspire his friends and family always.  Rest in Peace Papa.    

Few people can inspire others with their reputation.  Robert, you are one of those people and you will continue to inspire.  I'm just grateful to have had the opportunity to experience that in person a few times.  You will be remembered well, fondly and often.  

To Robert's family..... My his loving kindness always stay close in your heart.

I remember a trip in an RV through a relentless blizzard.  
There was no way for you to get back home as all planes were grounded. 
We decided to take our chances and for two days we traveled together with you, Lilian and a stranger away from the snow from DC to the sun and your brother in Tampa. 
Where ever you are, and whoever travels with you I am sure your presence will be as appreciated as we all did during that trip. 

Thinking of you all as you gather to celebrate Robert's life. I know you are remembering him in so many different ways--sharing your fondest memories and laughing about the good times you had as a family. The photo album and posted tributes are wonderful. May these many things, along with the support of dear family and friends, provide comfort as you move through the next days and weeks together. 

Michele. Rob and Aaron, I am so sorry about the passing of your husband and father.  Robert was the nicest and most thoughtful man I ever met.  He will be missed so much by everybody who loved him.  May he rest in peace.

Without doubt, Robert had the unique ability to make everyone he encountered feel special. The essential quality of Robert's being was his generousity in friendship, to have known such a good man who encouraged me with everything he did is a blessing, May his light shine bright in all our hearts.

I have been reading all of the messages sent.  My brother has touched so many of us one way or another.  I just wanted to thank all of you who made comments.  I appreciated what you have done and it has made me feel so much better and I can't explain it; but due to your comments I feel that Robert is just on another trip and will be back and I thank you all for this feeling.  Jan

Those we hold closest to our hearts never truly leave us.  They live on in the kindness they have shared and the love they
brought into our lives. Author Unknown

Robert was such a kind and generous person - he made everyone he encountered feel important, respected, and appreciated.   What I will remember most about Robert was the tremendous joy in living he shared with everyone around him -- he loved history, politics, art, good books, fine dining, wilderness adventures and most of all people - family and friends.  He will be greatly missed, but will remain forever in our hearts.

We were very sorry to hear about your father's passing. We are sure he will be missed deeply. Our prayers and Masses will be for your father and his family.

With sympathy,

Bob & Sharon

To Robert's family, I had the pleasure of meeting Robert years ago through business.  He was kind, patient, honest, caring, and so much more.  He truly loved his family and that came through in the many conversations we had over the years.  My thoughts and prayers are with you all.  God Bless.  Lisa C

Robert was always a class act!  He had such special gifts.  When speaking with him, he made you feel that you were the only two in the room.  He will be greatly missed.  

Colleen, Rob and Family . . . after readying the obituary I realize you all obviously share the love of the outdoors with Mr. Contreras given Colleen's awesome vacation pics.  What a beautiful family and life.  It is so shocking to be in the world without our parents.  You're in my thoughts and prayers.  Take care.  Love Toni  

In life you meet a few special people-- Robert is the definition of a gentleman--and a terrific sales person. God Bless

 Father, brother, friend, mentor, teacher, student, leader, advocate, champion, nurturer, supporter, guide, confidant, philosopher, comedian, educator to so many.  Your impact will be forever felt and your earthly presence forever missed. 

God speed Robert. This will Be your most rewarding climb. Thanks for your graciousness and kindness. 

We shared a lot of fun time, Bumpershoot, Huskies Games, Halloween Parties, great Meatballs, and a ton of conventions. See you on the trail my friend.

OBITUARY

Robert Contreras

May 26, 1948 – August 5, 2015

Evergreen Washelli Funeral Home & Cemetery

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