Robert Barone Obituary

Kurtis Knobel '69 said:

Robert Barone passed away peacefully on October 29, 2023, following a battle with prostate cancer. He was the beloved husband of 50 years to Caroline; the devoted father of Joshua (Katherine) and Bethany (Nick Gibbs); and proud "Jeep" to grandchildren, Ryan, Ellena, Audrey, and Elise. He is survived by his brothers, Stephen and Matthew; as well as his sisters, Caroline, Lark, Kristine, Bernadette, and Monica. He is also fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.


Rob was the president of Barone and Sons, Inc. until his retirement. Alongside his brothers, he transformed the company from a small appraisal firm founded by his father to the largest residential appraisal firm in the area. He was twice the president of the local chapter of the Appraisal Institute and earned national recognition for his expertise in relocation appraisal. He was most proud of the many appraisers he trained and mentored over the years.


Rob graduated from Saint Elizabeth Elementary School, Baldwin High School (class of 1969), and Washington and Jefferson College (class of 1973). During his time at Washington and Jefferson, he excelled as an all-conference wide-receiver. His lifelong love for sports extended to football, golf, basketball, tennis, and softball. He remained a loyal supporter of Pittsburgh's professional sports teams and the University of Pittsburgh's athletics. Rob also devoted his time to coaching youth sports and took great joy in watching his son and grandchildren compete.


Music was another Rob's passions. Listening to music with friends brought him great joy. He was a walking encyclopedia of classic rock knowledge and song lyrics. He taught himself to play guitar and could always be found at family gatherings leading the sing-alongs that brought everyone together.


Rob's greatest gift was making friends and connecting people, all while making every place he was in better and more fun. Rob was truly inclusive, altruistic, and only saw the best in each person. He was never happier than when he could make a child feel special, help a young person in their professional or personal life, or be there for a friend. To his family, he was a constant source of wisdom, support, and unconditional love.


A memorial service to celebrate his life will take place at Bower Hill Presbyterian Church on Saturday, November 11, 2023, at 11:00 AM.