Robert Rotolo, age 90, of Waretown, New Jersey, passed away on October 8, 2025, at Community Medical Center in Toms River, surrounded by the love of his five children who remained by his side throughout his hospitalization.
Born in Jersey City on February 1, 1935, Robert grew up in Union City before settling in East Rutherford to raise his family, and eventually retiring in Waretown with his beloved wife, Joyce Ann. Married for nearly 60 years, Robert and Joyce built a life rooted in devotion, family, and enduring love.
A dedicated husband and father, Robert worked tirelessly to support his family of five children, instilling in them the values of hard work, integrity, and compassion. He spent countless hours coaching his sons' Little League teams, attending games, and cheering from the sidelines—always their biggest supporter.
Robert was a proud and loyal member of Sheet Metal Workers Local 28, where he served for over 43 years, ultimately as a Business Agent before retiring in 1998. His "brothers" at Local 28 were an important part of his life, and he took great pride in representing and supporting his fellow tradesmen.
In retirement, Robert enjoyed life's simple pleasures—smoking a cigar after dinner, watching a ball game, and spending weekends and holidays surrounded by family. A cherished memory for all will forever be his 90th birthday celebration spent with his children in Marco Island, Florida.
Robert took great pride in his appearance and was known for his polished style and sharp sense of fashion. He was a well-dressed man who stayed active and fit, and he had a particular love of shoes—often returning from a shopping trip with yet another new pair. His care for how he presented himself reflected the same pride he carried in all aspects of his life.
Robert is predeceased by his wife, Joyce Ann, sisters Marie Perrini and Ada Williams, brother Michael Rotolo, and his parents, Margaret and Salvatore Rotolo.
He is survived by his devoted children: Rene Rotolo; Robin and Vincent Mustacchio; Robert Rotolo (Nancy); John and Sandra Rotolo; and Jill and Joseph Lindsay. He also leaves behind ten beloved grandchildren—John, Jeremy Rotolo; Sarah Harvey (Ryan); Kristyn Melsenti (Max), Lauren Rotolo, Nicholas Rotolo; Alexandra D'Ambrosio, Allison Flaherty (Ryan), Rae, and Matthew Lindsay—as well as six great-grandchildren: Joseph, Anthony, Dominic, Natalie, Harrison, and Hayden.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Saturday, October 11 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Layton Funeral Home, 250 Lacey Road, Forked River, NJ.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Robert's memory to the American Heart Association(www.heart.org), the Alzheimer's Association (www.alz.org/donate), or a charity of your choice.
Robert will be remembered as a man of unwavering work ethic, steadfast loyalty, and deep love for his family—a life well lived and a legacy that will endure through those who loved him most
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