Robert Charles Stein leaves behind lifetime of love and faith

Robert Charles “Bob” Stein died peacefully Saturday, May 23,  at the Hebrew Home in Riverdale, New York.

Bob was the beloved husband of his late wife, Naomi, and the devoted father of Hope Atlas (Glen) and Robert Feld. He was a loving and proud grandfather to Rebecca (Ian) and Sarah (Steven). He is also survived by his loving sister, Jill; his nephews, Scott and Barry; his cousin, Susan; his brother-in-law, Henry; and his dear family friend, Adam. He was cherished by his family and by the many friends whose lives he touched.

Bob loved life and embraced it with gratitude, curiosity, and kindness. Deeply devoted to Judaism, he possessed a strong faith in G-d that guided him throughout his life. He was a familiar presence in several synagogues over the years and was always willing to be the tenth man needed for a minyan. His commitment to his faith was matched by his love for people. He welcomed friendships from all walks of life and never had an unkind word to say about anyone.

A lifelong learner, Bob was knowledgeable about many subjects and enjoyed thoughtful conversations. He found joy in simple pleasures: walking, reading, writing, visiting Wave Hill in Riverdale, enjoying a cup of coffee and spending time with family and friends. He had a gift for making others feel welcomed, valued and heard.

In his final days, Bob was surrounded by many of the people he loved most. Among his final gifts were visits from his daughter, Hope, and her husband, Glen; visits from his beloved granddaughter, Sarah, and her partner, Steven; visits from his son, Robert, and dear family friends Adam and Amanda; and visits from cherished friends from synagogue, community support groups, neighbors and others whose lives he had touched throughout the years.

One of the special gifts Bob received in the weeks before his illness was a visit to his favorite place, Wave Hill, with beloved granddaughter Rebecca and her husband Ian.

Another especially meaningful moment came during a FaceTime call with his beloved granddaughter, Sarah, and Steven. They showed him that his cherished cat, Raincloud, was safe, happy and thriving in her new home with them.

On his final day he was singing prayers with Ian, the husband of his beloved granddaughter, Rebecca. Together they sang Ein Keloheinu, and Bob’s voice rang out loud and clear — a fitting reflection of the faith and spirit that remained strong throughout his life.

Bob’s kindness, wisdom, humility, and unwavering faith left a lasting impression on all who knew him. He was a gentle soul, a loyal friend, a devoted husband, father, grandfather and community member whose life was guided by faith, compassion and respect for others. He leaves behind a legacy of love, friendship, faith, and service that will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him.

May his memory be for a blessing.

To reach out to family: hopeatlas1209@gmail.com.