Robert DeSantis “Rebel”passed away on January 5, 2026 at the age of 78. He was predeceased by his parents, Bob and Pat DeSantis; and Janet Spease; and his brothers Wayne DeSantis and Tad Wright. He is survived by his wife of 56 years MaryJane DeSantis; children Michele O’Rourke, Christian DeSantis and wife Elizabeth; his brother Gary DeSantis; and his sisters Lynn Simmermon and Kerri Franz. Robert was a proud grandfather to Joseph, Erin, and Nicole O’Rourke, and Gabriella and Alyssa DeSantis. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, and very close lifelong friends.
Bob graduated from Curtis High School and went on to proudly serve his country in the US Army during the Vietnam War. He later had a distinguished career as a New York City Police Department officer before retiring. Following his law enforcement career, Bob owned and operated the Rosebank Deli for ten years, where he became a familiar and friendly presence in the community.
Outside of work, Bob had a love for sports. He was a die hard Yankee fan. He played on many softball teams, football teams, and was an avid golfer playing with multiple men’s clubs on Staten Island. With his love for sports came his passion to coach. Bob coached his son and grandson’s Little League teams and his daughter’s softball team. He also coached various youth teams at Stapleton AC, as well as, men’s basketball. He was a golf instructor at LaTourette golf course. Bob also enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and was their biggest fan.
For the past 15 years, Bob enjoyed golfing at his Florida home at the Quarry in Naples, where he formed strong friendships with fellow golfers. He most recently relocated to the golf course at Babcock Ranch, where he continued to play the sport he loves so much.
Bob will be remembered by family and friends for his charisma, humor, and generosity. His memory will live on through the many stories shared by those who were fortunate enough to know him.
In Lieu of flowers, the Family of Robert requests that donations be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation. To make a donation in memory of Robert, please click HERE:
Robert DeSantis “Rebel”passed away on January 5, 2026 at the age of 78. He was predeceased by his parents, Bob and Pat DeSantis; and Janet Spease; and his brothers Wayne DeSantis and Tad Wright. He is survived by his wife of 56 years MaryJane DeSantis; children Michele O’Rourke, Christian DeSantis and wife Elizabeth; his brother Gary DeSantis; and his sisters Lynn Simmermon and Kerri Franz. Robert was a proud grandfather to Joseph, Erin, and Nicole O’Rourke, and Gabriella and Alyssa DeSantis. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, and very close lifelong friends.
Bob graduated from Curtis High School and went on to proudly serve his country in the US Army during the Vietnam War. He later had a distinguished career as a New York City Police Department officer before retiring. Following his law enforcement career, Bob owned and operated the Rosebank Deli for ten years, where he became a familiar and friendly presence in the community.
Outside of work, Bob had a love for sports. He was a die hard Yankee fan. He played on many softball teams, football teams, and was an avid golfer playing with multiple men’s clubs on Staten Island. With his love for sports came his passion to coach. Bob coached his son and grandson’s Little League teams and his daughter’s softball team. He also coached various youth teams at Stapleton AC, as well as, men’s basketball. He was a golf instructor at LaTourette golf course. Bob also enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and was their biggest fan.
For the past 15 years, Bob enjoyed golfing at his Florida home at the Quarry in Naples, where he formed strong friendships with fellow golfers. He most recently relocated to the golf course at Babcock Ranch, where he continued to play the sport he loves so much.
Bob will be remembered by family and friends for his charisma, humor, and generosity. His memory will live on through the many stories shared by those who were fortunate enough to know him.
In Lieu of flowers, the Family of Robert requests that donations be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation. To make a donation in memory of Robert, please click HERE: