Robert A. DiBenedetto

Born on December 20, 1946, to Antonio and Celia DiBenedetto, Bobby grew up with a passion for anything with wheels and an engine. As a young man, he spent countless hours building go-karts, working on cars, racing hot rods, and assembling model cars. Those early interests would remain lifelong passions.

Bobby proudly served as a Corporal in the United States Marine Corps, including a tour in Vietnam from March 21, 1966, to March 21, 1968. A combat veteran, Bobby served his country with honor, courage, and pride. He received numerous military honors for his service, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal with 1960 Device, Vietnam Service Medal, Rifle Badge M-14 Marksman, and the Purple Heart. His service to his country and commitment to his fellow Marines remained a defining source of pride throughout his life.

Following his military service, Bobby built a successful career as a Master Electrician and was a proud member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). He was respected for his skill, work ethic, and dedication to his trade.

Bobby married Linda, with whom he shared two children. Though they later divorced they remained connected through the family they built together.

Outside of work, Bobby loved fast cars, Harley-Davidson motorcycles, hunting, fishing, and spending time outdoors. He took great pride in building and restoring his three Chevy Novas and a Camaro, just like the one he had when he got home from Vietnam. He was among the first five founding members of the Southern Tier Chapter of the Nam Knights Motorcycle Club in New York, where he formed many lasting friendships as a member for 22 years.

Those who knew Bobby will remember him for being unapologetically himself. He was quick-witted, hilarious, and always saw the bright side of life. A true glass-half-full kind of man, he approached life with optimism, resilience, and a sense of humor that could brighten any room. Never one to stop learning, Bobby constantly found ways to keep his mind sharp, teaching himself to play musical instruments through YouTube, building model airplanes, and pursuing new interests simply for the joy of learning something new.

One of Bobby’s most memorable traits was his habit of biting his fingers instead of saying what was really on his mind. It became a signature gesture recognized by everyone who knew and loved him. In true Bobby fashion, he often joked about having only nine fingers.

Bobby was predeceased by his parents, Antonio and Celia DiBenedetto.

He is survived by his sisters, Doreen D’Anna and Annette Cavaliere; his daughter, Donna Colonna; his son, Robert DiBenedetto; his grandchildren, Joseph Greenstein, Allie Steele, Ashley Selman, and John Murphy; and his great-grandson, Jett Steele.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, from 3pm to 7pm at Beney Funeral Home, 79 Berry Hill Road, Syosset, NY 11791.

Interment with military honors will be held on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at Calverton National Cemetery, 210 Princeton Boulevard, Calverton, NY 11933.

Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy of service, strength, and love will live on in all who knew him.