Robert Anthony Rossi

"Bobby" was born on March 26, 1957 in Providence, RI to Louis and Palmira M. (Crenca) Rossi. He grew up in a large, close-knit, multi-generational Italian-American family and adored his many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He is survived by his daughter, Marie Cespedes, and her husband Ernie Levesque, as well as his son, Jason Rossi, and his wife Jennifer Rossi. He also leaves three grandchildren, Aron, Tyler, and Alexandria, as well as five great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Barbara J. (Rossi) Saez. He was predeceased by his brother Louis G. Rossi.

Robert was a graduate of Johnston High School, Johnston, RI. He was a Green Beret in the U.S. Army Special Forces in the 1980s. He had been employed at Cummins Rocky Mount Engine Plant in North Carolina for over a decade. He also worked as a real estate agent for Coldwell Banker. He worked well with his hands and enjoyed fixing cars, motorcycles, and doing handyman work around the house.

In his younger years, Robert was athletic and especially loved basketball, skiing, and golf. He practiced martial arts throughout adulthood with a particular interest in Kung Fu, Tai Chi, and meditation. He was sharp-witted and sarcastic, and he always had a witty come-back at the ready. Robert will be remembered for his confident nature and entrepreneurial spirit, as well as his deep faith and devotion to God.

There will be a private memorial service in the near future.

Donations in his memory may be made to the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans at their website, www.nchv.org.