Obituary of Robert Edward Serafini

Robert Edward Serafini “Bob, Bobby, Dad, Papa Fini, Uncle Bob, Meatball King” January 4, 1945 – December 2, 2024 It is with great sadness that the family of Robert E. Serafini announce his passing after sudden cardiac arrest due to other health complications. Robert “Bob” Edward Serafini is a man of countless titles and even more cherished relationships. Born in Boston, Massachusetts on January 4, 1945, to the late Anthony “Tony” and late Gladys (Coulsey) Serafini, Bob grew up in a home filled with love, laughter, and delicious food, setting the foundation for his vibrant life in Erie, Pennsylvania. A devoted brother, Bob shared dee bonds with Judy (late Raymond) Serafini Johnson, Debbie Serafini Miller, Edward (Lana DiNicola) Serafini, Anthony (Sue) Serafini, and the late Sue Ellen (late Chuck) Serafini Criscione. These relationships enriched his life and became the cornerstone of his unwavering commitment to family. Bob shared his heart and home with his loving partner, Sandra Bebell Piercey, and their little dog, Ariel, whom he loved dearly. They created a life of joy, exploration, and togetherness, marked by a shared passion of living history and adventures in travel across the globe. As a proud father, Bob’s legacy lives on through his children: Lisa (Richard) Serafini-Keppel of Union City, PA, Andrea Maille (late Andrew) of Erie, PA, Michael (Lisa) Serafini of Chicago, IL, Christopher (Michelle) Serafini of Erie, PA, Edward (Jeni) Serafini, of St. Augustine, FL, William Serafini of Chicago IL, Joshua (Nicole) Serafini of Houston, TX, and Amanda (Opie) Serafini-Hughes of Erie, PA. Bob holds a special place in his heart for his grandchildren: Sean & Michael Serafini-Keppel, Logan Maille, Olivia & Rocco Serafini, Gabriella, Samantha, Madison, & Isaac Serafini, Roman & Reid Serafini, Camden, Capri, & Carter Serafini, Sarah & Coby Hughes, and Dylan Serafini-Hughes. He has the joy of one great-grandson, Jameson Serafini-Keppel. He holds all their accomplishments and milestones dearly and he celebrated with boundless pride to anyone who would listen. Bob is also survived by his two previous wives, Anna Leone Serafini, with whom he shared 3 children, and Lucinda Serafini Maurer, with whom he shared 6 children. They have remained life-long friends with a deep respect and love for one another. He is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews, who all love him deeply and cherish the lasting memories they created with their Uncle Bob. Bob is a graduate of Cathedral Preparatory School, class of 1963. He then attended Gannon University until he had to drop out as he was called to run the family restaurant due to his father having a heart attack. Bob was raised in and helped run Serafini’s Restaurant. He was a pillar to its success and legacy. Many knew him as the “Meatball King.” A natural storyteller, Bob’s life was woven with rich memories he loved to share. From stories of running the beloved family restaurant to the reminiscing of “old times.” His career in the hospitality industry has left a lasting impression for generations to come. His other ventures included “The Boulevard” and “Bob Serafini’s Maples,” which became community staples, much like Bob himself. Bob’s passions were as diverse as they were fulfilling. Whether cheering for his Green Bay Packers, sipping on his BV, participating in drag racing in his youth, diving with the Blue Dolphin Skin Divers Club, or teaching Sunday school at St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral, he brought energy and heart to everything he did. He was a proud member of the Sons of Little Italy and shared his love of Italian heritage through recipes and family stories. Bob cherished his visit with his family to his ancestral home in Acuto, Italy—a dream fulfilled that brought him immeasurable joy in September 2021. He was a man who celebrated life through his cooking, travels, and enduring friendships. He delighted readers with his “Gourmet Adventures of…”—a column in the Erie Times in the 1970’s, and he inspired viewers with his cooking demonstrations on local daytime TV. Above all, he treasured passing his culinary skills and work ethic to his children, leaving them with a legacy of love through family recipes and undeniable talents. Preceded in death by his parents, Anthony and Gladys, and sister Sue Ellen, Bob’s memory is carried forward by his large, loving family, and dear lifelong friend, Daria Sivillo Walker, whose support and care will always be remembered. Bob’s greatest joys were found in the success, love, and happiness of his family. He is an incredibly proud dad, a doting Papa Fini, and a steadfast friend who would do anything for those he loved. His warmth, humor, and larger-than-life presence will be deeply missed but forever cherished by all who know and love him. As we say goodbye to Bob, we celebrate a life beautifully lived—a life that touched so many hearts and left a legacy of love, family, and unforgettable memories, not just for his own family, but for the Erie community to cherish for generations to come. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to the American Heart Association in memory of Bob. Friends and Family are welcome to call on Friday, December 13, 2024, from 3pm - 7pm at Dusckas Martin Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 4216 Sterrettania Rd., Erie, PA 16506.