A. Robert Gentile

Arthur Robert “Bob” Gentile, age 93, passed away peacefully at home on December 29, 2023, with his family by his side. He is survived by his wife and best friend of over 67 years Maureen Gentile (McDonald) and their two children; John of Holyoke, and Cathy Robare (Michael) of East Longmeadow, along with his two grandsons Robert and Luke Robare, who were the lights of his life, as well as many nieces and nephews, vast extended family and tremendous circle of friends that included all generations. Bob was born in Springfield on November 9, 1930 to Joseph and Helen (Ciccerelli) Gentile. He was predeceased by his brothers; Albert, Thomas and Frank Gentile. Bob proudly served in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War. He was a barber after the war and later was employed by the State of Massachusetts as a welfare fraud investigator until his retirement. He was a past Commander of the Italian American War Veterans Post 64 of East Longmeadow and was the last living charter member. He was very active in the Catholic church over the last many years, as a Eucharistic Minister, Usher, and even as an Altar Server when needed. He always wanted to help if he could. Bob loved to cook and spend time with his family and friends. His smile was infectious. He brightened up the room for sure! All who knew him, loved him. After 1996, when his grandsons were born, most who knew him called him Poppy. He was a real “people person” and family meant everything to him.
Visitation will be held on Friday, January 5th from 9-11 AM at Wilbraham Funeral Home, 2551 Boston Rd., Wilbraham. Bob’s Funeral Mass will follow at 12:00Noon at St. Michael’s Church, 128 Maple St., East Longmeadow. Family and friends may meet for Bob’s Committal Service with Military Honors on Monday, January 8th at 10 AM at MA Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery, 1390 Main St., Agawam.