Obituary: Robert J. Marinaro, 75, of Watertown

Robert "Bobby" J. Marinaro, 75, of Watertown, died Monday, March 5, 2012, at the Vitas Unit at St. Mary’s Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. He was the widower of Joan (Dennis) Marinaro.

Marinaro was born in Waterbury on April 19, 1936, son of the late Innocenzio and Maria (Andreano) Marinaro. He graduated from Wilby High School and was a standout athlete.

He enlisted in the Army National Guard with the 102 D Infantry until 1964 and worked at Scovill Mfg. Company and Century Brass before retiring.

Marinaro was an all-star outfielder and hitter in the 1950s and 1960s with the Golden Villa Bombers and Borrelli Bombers fast pitch softball league, once being scouted for minor league baseball. He belonged to social clubs and was an avid sports fan. In his later years, he enjoyed horse racing and travels with his beloved wife Joan.

Marinaro leaves three children, Robert Marinaro and his wife Barbara of Waterbury; David Marinaro and his wife Nancy of Watertown; his daughter, Laurie Czarzasty and her husband Karl of Watertown; a brother, Ernest Marinaro and his wife Carol of Naugatuck; two sisters, Anne Marinaro and Gloria Marinaro, both of Waterbury; four grandchildren, Tommy and Lauren Czarzasty and David and Derek Marinaro; and several nieces and nephews.

Marinaro was predeceased by seven brothers, Onofrio, William, Anthony, Carmine, Joseph, John and Francis Marinaro and three sisters, Madeline Jacovino, Concetta Staselunas and Phyllis Marrone.

The family extended their utmost gratitude and sincere appreciation for the many years of care provided to their father: to the Harold Leever Regional Cancer Center in Waterbury and all their wonderful and caring staff.

The family would especially like to express to Dr. Kert Sabbath their sincere gratitude for his many years of sincere, compassionate care and expertise he provided to their father. Also, Dr. Stephen Rubenstein and the staff at the Vitas Unit at St. Mary’s Hospital especially the nurses, Maria, Terri and Dawn. No words can express the family's sincerest appreciation.

Calling Hours: 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, March 7 at Chase Parkway Memorial/The Albini Family Funeral Home, 430 Chase Parkway, Waterbury.

Funeral: 9 a.m. Thursday, March 8, at Chase Parkway Memorial

Mass: 10 a.m. Thursday, March 8, at St. John the Evangelist Church, Watertown

Burial: Following at Mt. Olivet Cemetery with full military honors

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Marinaro's memory to the Harold Leever Regional Cancer Center, 1075 Chase Parkway, Waterbury, CT 06708.