It is a terrible thing to lose a family member and I am deeply saddened to let you know we lost our dear colleague and friend Bob Zappatelli.
Bob passed away at home early Sunday morning, May 31, with his wife Karla by his side. It is comforting to know that he slipped away quietly, something that Bob with all his enthusiasm and vitality would rarely do.
Bob touched many people in such a personal way and we will all miss him terribly. Please keep Karla and his family in your thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time.
We will post more information here as soon as arrangements are made.
Burt Cabañas
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As a lover of music, food, people, and life, there is no better tribute than remember our dear friend and colleague. We will always be richer for having spent time with Bob. We'll all remember his laugh and how he made us laugh with him. Bob we'll miss you deeply.
ReplyDeleteEric
Konrad, here is the Gig.
ReplyDeleteThis is how Bob started every conversation with me.To have worked and laughed with the Man will be a priveledge
I will always cherish.My Wife Kathleen and my Daughters Alexandra and Marlene will miss him as well and he is in our prayers everyday.Bob started a new Gig into Heaven , where we will see each other again.Every moment I think of you Bob ,tears come to my eyes and a smile to my face.Working for you and with you made me a stronger Chef and for sure a better human being.
I will miss Man.
Dear Bob,
ReplyDeleteThanks for being a good friend and infusing my life with your energy. No matter how long it was between phone calls, we always picked up where we left off, laughing at some shared craziness. I'm going to miss those calls very much. I'd trade alot for one more bear hug. Peace to you and my love to your family.
Dave
I met Bob and right away I could see why everyone talked so highly of him. His personality was phenominal. And even more so he amazed me with his commitment to Benchmark and the genuine care he showed for the employee's here at The Heldrich. My Condolences to his family, I will keep you in my prayers...
ReplyDeleteBob was the most consummate hospitality professional that I can all only strive to be. His level of professionalism mixed with his innate ability to inspire people and make everyone believe in his message was something that I will always remember. He wasn’t afraid to laugh and embrace everyday doing what he loved. He lived his life with such an amazing spirit and enthusiasm that was amazingly contagious, each time I was lucky enough to work with him I took something all of which I am the better for. He reached a great level of success and seemed to not compromise who he was or the wonderful spirit of life that he had in him. I am eternally thankful that I got to know and work with Bob, who truly embodies the sprit of hospitality and was a great mentor to anyone who he touched. God bless you Bob and my prayers are with your family. Heaven just became a much more fun place to be.
ReplyDeleteThe word special is thrown around too much these days, so it is not good enough to describe my friend Bob.
ReplyDeleteBob was more than special, he was extraordinary. Although his stunningly successful career will always be a fitting monument to his talent and dedication, it is not what made him extraordinary. Bob's genuine affection for the moment and his uncanny ability to connect with everyone in it is what made him extraordinary. His obvious appreciation for life was beautifully balanced by his recognition that it was an arduous struggle for some. Bob did not take the joy that emanated from him for granted, and his witty, sometimes biting commentary conveyed his deep, intuative understanding of the way the world could be. My heartfelt condolences go out to his beloved family and everyone who had the good fortune of calling Bob thier friend
To Bob: I will miss talking about our favorite "Grounded for Life" episodes, I will miss our conversations about Clapton and Cobain, and I will miss hearing your booming laugh in the hallway. Most of all, I will miss the presence of my extraordinary friend. See you on the other side...Ali
Bob was a cook's cook. He if he had been in the service, he would have been a soldier's soldier, leading from the front. His desire to be the best filtered to all around. I especially am grateful for his unwavering support and for finally bringing Benchmark to the Beard House. Bob, thanks for breaking the rules and sticking it out there.
ReplyDeleteFrom the moment I met Bob, I was drawn in by that incredible charisma and energy. He backed it up not just with phenomenal expertise, but with more truth and sincerity than most people are capable of. Bob could tell you to get your head out of your butt (as he did for me on more than one occassion) and you'd love him for it. He always seemed to know just what I needed, whether it was fatherly advice, a sympathetic ear or a swift kick in the shorts.
ReplyDeleteI'll always remember the late nights on the patio in Naples with my "roomie" Bob. Up until some ridiculous hour and staring an early start in the face, talking about everything from our Top 10 film lists to mankind's place in the universe. We probably weren't very profound, but I'm sure we were entertaining.
He called me about a week before he passed, right before dinner service was about to start. It was a stressful day for me, running thin in the front and leading into a holiday weekend. The first words out of his mouth were, "Are you all right?" I asked him how he knew I was having a rough one, and he said he just had a vibe. Even though I know it won't happen, I'll always be waiting for that call to come again.
Bob, thanks for the trust and the honesty. Thanks for the fire and the fuel. Thanks for the destination and the map to get me there. Most of all, thanks for the love and the laughs. Take care, pal . . . Trav.
The words are all positive to express how I felt about Bob. He was a very influential man whose words and inspiration could change you for the better. I could describe Bob by using every positive and good word in the dictionary but one word sticks out the most “Believed”. Bob believed in me when I first started here at the founders Inn and spa. He showed me the basic in and outs of the business, and I often reflect on them. Once he told me that we should create fantasy and how people come to our properties expecting fantasy and it’s out job to make sure they get it. Bob was a teacher, mentor, and most of all he cared. For those who were touched by Bob along the way, we will always have a piece of him with us forever. My heart and condolence goes out to the Zappatelli family and friends. Bob I will keep you and your family in my prayers, we love you and we will miss you.
ReplyDeleteIt was the summer of 2004 and Bob came to Stonewall Resort for a property visit. We had just pruchased a party boat and I wanted Bob's approval. We had food and some adult beverages on board and got underway for a private tour of the lake. We were into the trip about 3 minutes having traveled 100 yards. Bob turned to me and asked how long the trip would take. I said about an hour. Bob replied "Greg, come on man I get" wanting to return to shore. We stayed out a couple of hours and had a great time.
ReplyDeleteThe thing about Bob was you wanted to be around him. He was so into what he was doing and sooner or later you would laugh until it hurt.
Greg P.
You will be missed brother.
Connectivity...is that a word? These were the first words I heard as I answered the phone. "What?" I replied. Bob said Karla is telling me that connectivity is not a word. He went on to say that he loves using it because it works in explaning so may situations. I looked it up and yes...it is a word. That's an example of so many random calls and conversations I had with Bob. I will alway remember the good times and the laughs.
ReplyDeleteBob was a Big man in everything he did and said. He had a huge personality that you were just drawn to. He had tremendous dreams and aspirations not just for himself but for all those around him. And passion, about everything he cared about; from Karla to Meatloaf.
ReplyDeleteTo me he was my friend and my mentor always leading by example, never hesitating a word of encouragement . A day doesn't go by when at some point during the day I don't think to myself 'what would Bob's reaction to this be?'
Words can't express how much I will miss you but all the lives you touched celebrate your having been there for everyone of us.
I salute you with a cheers of Dewars. I am what I am because of your friendship.
I love you my friend
Bob, you poured your life into so many people ... and have left quite a legacy! You will be greatly missed and your shoes will not easily be filled.
ReplyDeleteKarla (and family) ... my thoughts, prayers are with you. With great affection, deena
From the second I met Bob Zappatelli, I knew that he was one of the most pure and kind hearted people I would ever meet. Although I am not as old as most of his colleagues, I would like to think that Bob and I were great friends! While letting my family come to his house and play in his pool, or while gracing us with his presence at country clubs and conference centers, his high spirits and friendliness always shined. Bob will always truly be in my heart, as he will for everyone.
ReplyDeleteMy heart goes out to Karla and his family.
-Caroline Farina
Last Summer Bob was acting G.M. at Costa d’ Este in Vero Beach Florida. Although my time with Bob was all too short, he had the same effect on me as others. I only knew him a little, but his openness made me feel that I knew well. We were standing out by the ocean one afternoon as a storm was rolling in. He told me how much he loved the rain. He told me that one of the great joys of his life was to sit outside with his wife Karla on their deck and just watch it rain. I can only imagine how much he must have loved the Rainbow.
ReplyDeleteTom
I met Bob a few years ago and instantly he became family. Bob had an essence to him that sprung me into a good mood, he always knew how to make me laugh and smile with the words he said. Bob would always make shrimp when my family and I came over, knowing it was my favorite, which makes me feel that he really did remember and care, and that he's that kind of person that would go out of their way to please other people, which he did. Bob always lived his life to the fullest, which is why I picked out a quote that, to me; resembled Bob's life.
ReplyDelete"The fear of death follows from the fear of life. A man who lives fully is prepared to die at any time." -Mark Twain
Love Always and Forever; Christin Farina
Bob,
ReplyDeleteFood: take simple ingredients and make a wonderful experience. With Bob it all started with great food, then you can make everything else work around it.
A friend first, a mentor second and just a great man overall. Passion, is what Bob lived!
He inspired me to be what I am and so many more around me. The stories we have told and will tell about him just shows how much he touched all of us. (The original Founders Inn and Virginia Crossings Team)
I will miss you chef. I use what you gave me every day and will never let your influance go.
I will forever be influenced by Bob. I will think beyond the kitchen walls. I will be careful to stay "out of the rut". I will look to set a trend rather than follow it, and when I ask someone "How ya doin' Man?" or "How's your family?" it will be because I truly want to know.
ReplyDeleteBob, I thank you for your leadership, your mentorship, and your freindship.
Task force will certainly never be the same again.
Bob you will truly be missed by everyone! Anyone who knew you knows you were a great man with much to offer.
ReplyDeleteI will miss your laughter and big smiles! You touched so many people!
You touched so many people. Anyone that knew you knows that you lived life to the fullest and gave some much.
ReplyDeleteI will miss your laughter and big smiles. I will miss you...we will all miss you.
It is with a saddened heart, as I begin this passage.
ReplyDeleteBob came to our resort here in Bedford, Two years ago, to give us his whole self.. as we began a new journey.. together.
He was always in the kitchen at 5 am, when I began my day, with a big smile.. he knew each of our names.. and always there to lend a hand, when needed.
I will always remember one morning, a particular co-worker .. was really complaining. He didn't like being here, never happy... I heard Bob, in this great big voice..which sounded like then voice of God.
He said "C'mon Joel, Be glad you're alive.. None of us have the given right to be here, don't you know that this day is a gift?" The kitchen became silent. I saw a tear in Bob's eye.. He was so right.
I am so very blessed, to have had the pleasure to know Bob.. He will always hold a very special place in my heart..
Thank you.....
How do I say goodbye to what we had?
ReplyDeleteThe good times that made us laugh outweigh the bad.
I thought we'd get to see forever but forever has gone away.
It's so hard to say goodbye to yesterday.
I dont know where this road is going to lead.
All I know is where we've been and what we've been through.
If we get to see tomorrow I hope its worth all the wait.
Its so hard to say goodbye to yesterday.
And I'll take with me the memories
To be my sunshine after the rain
It's so hard to say goodbye to yesterday.
We will always love you Bob! Keem 'em laughing up in Heaven for us!
So long to a great guy. He gave me the chance to be where I am today. And for that I will be forever grateful. I know he will never be forgotten. So long my friends.
ReplyDeleteOne word comes to mind when I think of Bob....Genuine. He truly was the real deal. When he asked "How are you" or "how are the kids" he really wanted to know. I did not work with Bob. I knew him through Konrad, but liked him the first minute I met him. I grew to love him as a very dear friend very quickly. He has been so good to Konrad and to our family not only as a business associate but as a friend. I have many fond memories of Bob from all the James Beard dinners, evenings around the fire at the Bedford Springs opening, but my most memorable was the day Bob came to my home to do his laundry during that long stay in Bedford. Bob, my daughter and I sat on the paito and just talked about life all afternoon. Wherever Bob was, he was right there head and heart. We listened and we shared in on his wonderful stories. His unmistakable voice, and unforgettable laugh will be with me forever.
ReplyDeleteBob...I will miss you more than you know. You were goodness inside and out. YOU were a gift from God. I am blessed to have know you.
Karla and family...We think and pray for you daily. I pray that your heartache will ease with time and all those happy memories of Bob will fill your heart with happiness.
Even after reading so many amazing comments and stories about Bob, it's hard to put words on the page. So I've been thinking about what Bob's story has taught me: Love what you do and do it with unbridled passion...no matter how frustrating an individual day might be; Smile and for God's sake, mean it; Hug others even if you've just met them on the street; take time to walk by or call and ask "how ya doin'"; Don't put off exercise if you know your body needs it (Bob hired a personal trainer about 4 weeks ago and told some great stories about this young buck kicking his butt in the gym..he had lost 8 pounds in two weeks); Teach others by sharing your expertise and passion, giving real-time, honest feedback and never be too removed to just get in the kitchen and get dirty; inspire others and never settle for good enough.
ReplyDeleteI love you Bob! You will be missed. I pray that you have received God's gift of grace and that your family and friends are comforted with the many memories and teachings you left us with.
The best words I could use to explain Bob was Real,Honest and Passionate about everything he did. I only knew him for a short time while our GM at Costa d'Este but I considered him a friend and I know he will be truly missed by everyone he touched.My Deepest Regrets on your loss.
ReplyDeleteDana
I had the honor of working along side of Bob for 3 years when Bob was the Food and Beverage Director and I was the HR Director at The Founders Inn. Bob was so full of life and truly lived every moment of life to the fullest... He was one of those amazing people that made the world better just by being in it. Bob has touched the lives of so many people that his life will never be forgotten.
ReplyDeleteKarla, please take comfort in the wonderful memories that you and Bob shared and smile knowing that Bob has shared the most embarrasing ones with thousands of people across the United States.
Peace, Love and Sympathy,
Dan and Helen Waite
Bob was a true mentor. Always passionate about food, and caring of others. I will never forget his influence on me, to work hard, love food, be a better person and a better chef. We had great times together inside and outside of work. His encouragement made me the person I am today. I will never forget his words to me, (as I was yelling at one of my cooks) He came out of the office and said, "And that's why you will never be a Sous Chef!". That was 12 years ago and yet I still think about that day every time a tough situation comes my way. He taught me so much, and I will carry that with me always. Bob, you are forever loved, missed, and never forgotten. Thank You for being such a tremendous influence on my life and career.
ReplyDeleteRebecca Costanzo
Chef de Cuisine
Portofino
(From The Founders Inn and Crossings original team)
Bob was one of those rare individuals who had the ability to make each person he met feel special. Whether it was "how are you doin'?" or just opening his arms for a big hug....that was Bob. Always smiling as he walked down the hall, stopping in to say hi or "have a good weekend". No one was overlooked by Bob. He now looks down on us from Heaven.
ReplyDeleteSharon S
Home Office
Bob, I feel grateful that I had the opportunity to say good bye when you left Costa d'Este. Those few months that you spend with us made such a difference in my life. "You Got Me", you got my vision and thought me that a smile goes a long way. Thank you for been a mentor and friend.
ReplyDeleteGod Bless you and your family!!!
Alba
I will never forget my first conversation with Bob when he said, "An HR guy with a background in F&B...what has this crazy world come to?!" and then proceeded to give me a bear hug that nearly broke me in half.
ReplyDeleteBob had the truly inspiring ability to leave a lasting impression in a way that few people possess and always left you waiting for that next memorable "gut-busting" moment.
There are many words that could be used to describe Bob but I think my kids, who only met Bob for a couple of minutes, said it best when they told me that, "Bob was one of the nicest, funniest and most happy individuals they had ever met!"
One of the many gifts that Bob bestowed on all that knew him and came in contact with him was the way he could inspire you to be better and make you feel as though you were the most important person and that particular moment. I know that I will forever cherish every moment that I was able to share with him.
Bob you will forever live in all of our hearts and minds and to that I say....Thank You!
May God Bless you and your beautiful family!
There are few people in life that truly make you happy when you are in their presence. Bob was one of these people for me. He kept me laughing. He made me think. And he challenged you to do your best. He unabashedly proclaimed his love for His Carla and his family in New Jersey. He openly gave of himself for the betterment of others. He listened. He cared. He "got it". You could trust Bob. I'll forever miss my Friend and I know that I'm a better person for knowing Bob. Peace and Love to Carla, his Family and the thousands of people whose lives he touched. I miss you Zapper...
ReplyDeleteTodd Gillespie
It is hard to put down in words the effect Bob had on me. In my many roles with Benchmark, whether at Stonewall, The Council House or Turtle Bay, time spent with Bob was always lived fully and in the moment. He truly enjoyed the people around him, and he sucked you in. After a particularly exhausting day last summer at Mission Inn, Bob and I retired to a patio and talked and laughed into the early morning. Bob could always tell when someone needed an ear to listen, and with the empathy and insight to cleave through the issues and provide great options for moving forward.
ReplyDeleteWe will miss you buddy, and save me a seat at your table.
Ken Jesina
from the moment I met Bob I felt like we had been friends for life. He had an innate ability to make everyone he came in contact with feel the same way. To know Bob was to love him and I feel extremely fortunate to have had that opportunity.
ReplyDeleteGod speed my friend. I will think of you always and especially while I am dining at that neighborhood favorite with a great bottle of wine and incredible fare.
Salute my friend.....
Danny W
Despite my youth and inexperience in the hospitality industry, and despite my job not being a traditional front of the house hospitality type job (rooms, dining, conf, etc)Bob made me feel valued in my role. He asked for and valued my opinion, or pretended to in a most sincere way, which provided a confidence which was probably greater then my abilities. My career benefited from his trust and high expectations. I remember the booming voice, laugh and yell. During my time at Founders, I remember several occasions walking down the halls with his hand on my shoulders talking about whatever was on our minds (work or not), and laughing together probably louder then we should have been. I have yet to find another boss who valued and trusted me beyond my "specific skill/age level" the way he did, treated me as a professional colleague and friend simultaneously, and who could motivate/communicate to an entire staff the way he could.
ReplyDeleteDavid Page (former IT Manager @ Founders Inn)
Ok Bob, this is the Gig, that is what God is now saying to Bob, and what a GIG it will be.
ReplyDeleteAll the things I have read about Bob I could also say, but no sense repeating them. I will say I will miss Bob.Since he left Founders we kept in touch by e mail. The world will not be the same without him and that makes me sad.To know Bob was to love him.God gave him such a gift to touch each of our lives, and we were all Blessed because of it.
Karla and family know you all are in my prayers that the Father will bless each of you with His grace to see you through this very difficult time..May the Peace and love of Jesus surround each of you . Be Blessed
Proverbs 3:5&6..
Since Bob has left Founders inn he has been missed. . Bob is always smiling when you walk past him, always saying hello. how are you? are you okay today? Bob has a great attitude all the time. The last time i saw bob he asked me. "how's patrick doing? " He was a friend to all and showed concern & I will miss him very much. It was a pleasure to of known him . He was a good person to of known.
ReplyDeleteSympathy to his lovely wife Karla and family.
Lorena Costanzo & family
LORENA COSTANZO
Bob meant so much to me. He was always cheerful and had a positive attitude, he made the day better on those days I was fortunate enough to be able to talk with him. He will be with me forever, because I will never forget his warm, kind, and cheerful ways. We pray for Bob and his Family.
ReplyDeleteMaggio Dio benedice e La tiene.
ReplyDeleteChef,
ReplyDeleteThank you for being one of the first people to beleive in me. You will forever be missed and hold a place in my heart, mind and soul. You were an inspiration, a teacher, a mentor, a friend and much much more. You touched more people than you could possibly imagine, your kindness was only matched by your passion and love for everything you entered in to. I will never forget the lessons and the opportunities you gave me.
Take one part brutally passionate and carasmatic chef, one part business savy executive and one part larger than life personality, you get Bob.........damn your gonna be missed.................
Michael Carrino
Former BHI
Founders Inn, Virginia Crossings and North Maple Inn
I had the pleasure of knowing Bob Z for the past year and in that short time I learned that Bob had an infectious love for music, food and the fun things in life. His desire to seek perfection in everything related to food and beverage gave me a totally different perspective on what it takes to deliver fabulous food in a fast paced environment.
ReplyDeleteBob taught us about the value of local purveyors and why organization is so important in any kitchen operation. And it was not just what Bob taught us, it was how he relayed the information with passion and confidence, which made listening to him speak so intriguing.
My prayers are with his family as surely Bob Z will be missed.
Gail Talbott
Bob always made you feel like you were the most important person in the room. No matter whether you didn't see eye to eye a week ago, he was your best friend today. Bob lived in the moment and that moment always was a special one when you talked with Bob. Bob has left this world touching so many of us -- just think what it will be like when we meet again! My prayers to his family. They should be so proud of the joy he shared and the passion that he showed us. Marjorie Sferra, Dir. HR Virginia Crossings
ReplyDelete