Mr. Robert L. Dondero

Mr. Robert L. Dondero, age 90, of New Hartford, passed away on Sunday, February 21, 2016 at the Sitrin Health Care Center. And if he had his way, this is all he would want you to know. However, his daughters, Rachel, and Patricia think there is more to say about their dad than that. Born in Utica on March 27, 1925, Bob was the son of the late Robert and Mary (Bello) Dondero. Raised and educated locally, he was a graduate of Utica Free Academy and Utica College of Syracuse University where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering. He was an avid Syracuse basketball fan, having played ball in his younger days at the Utica Boys Club. True to his alma mater, he watched SU basketball and football games, confident that the Orange would overcome any odds, and win. A proud veteran of the United States Navy, Bob honorably served his country from 1943-1946 during World War II stationed in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations as a Seabee. On January 28, 1950, he married the former Nancy A. Simone with whom he shared 58 years until her passing on July 20, 2008. Bob worked as a physicist at the Griffiss Air Force Base, subsequently known as the Rome Air Development Center. In later years, his meritorious work ethic led to managerial positions that he held until his retirement in 1980. He was an original member of the “Top of the Hill Gang”, a group of fellow retirees with whom he shared memories of a full career. As a patriarch, he was a loving father, great teacher, and excellent role model for his children. He had a strong sense of duty, commitment, and integrity and he was a man of his word. With his quick wit and sharp sense of humor, he was able to laugh at the lighter side of life. For the last 50 years, Bob’s “home away from home” was at the Spruce Grove Marina on Oneida Lake. Fishing was his passion, and to some that may seem strange, but not to those who knew him and were the recipients of his ‘catch’. When not fishing, Bob could be found exercising and maintaining his well-being at Planet Fitness or having coffee with the guys. An active outdoors man, he also enjoyed hunting. Bob is survived by his daughters, Rachel Dondero of Arlington, Virginia, and Patricia Dondero-Somers and her husband Bradley of Sugarland, Texas. Always close to his heart was the memory of his son, Robert P. Dondero, who passed away on May 30, 1976. He also leaves his grandson Grayson Somers and his wife Amanda of Sugarland, TX; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws Millie Dondero, Angelo and Lucy Simone, and Antoinette Simone. Bob was also blessed with many friends, especially his fishing and walking buddies. He was predeceased by his brothers and sister-in-law, John and Mary Dondero, and Dominick Dondero; and his in-laws, Dominick L. and Helen Simone, and Anthony Simone. The family is grateful to the staff of the 2nd floor rehab unit at the Sitrin Health Care Center for the sensitive care and kindness they shared with Bob as well as his girls. In keeping with Bob’s wishes, there will be no public visitation. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Robert’s funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Saturday February 27, at 2:00 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where his Memorial Mass of Christian Burial with Military Honors will be offered by Rev. James Cesta. The family will receive visitors at the end of Mass. In lieu of floral offerings, please consider memorial donations in Bob’s honor to the Rehabilitation Unit at the Sitrin Health Care Center; envelopes will be available at the service. Inurnment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mr. Robert L. Dondero

March 27, 1925 - February 21, 2016