RobertF. DeCelle

SARATOGA SPRINGS —Robert F. DeCelle, beloved husband of Joan, passed away on July 19, 2024 in Saratoga Springs.

Robert was born on May 6, 1941 in Troy, NY to Oliver and Mary DeCelle. After graduating from Catholic High School, he served in the Army. During his time in the service, he was stationed in Japan where he had many adventures which he loved to recount. His time there made a lasting impression on him. He went on to work at Behr-Manning and Niagara Mohawk.

Robert is survived by his wife of 59 years, Joan (Michalski), daughter Debra Covell (Sean), son Robert (Renee), his grandchildren Ian, Declan, Damon, Lucie, and many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his brothers Joseph and Thomas.

Robert was a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, and a loyal friend. He had a gift for being able to talk to anyone. He loved meeting people, hearing their stories, and sharing reminiscences of his youth in Troy. It wasn’t uncommon for him to run into people he knew wherever he went, even hundreds of miles from home. Robert was also a lifelong baseball fan, particularly of the Boston Red Sox, and one of his greatest joys was coaching and watching his son play. His sense of humor and loving spirit will be sorely missed.

Calling hours were July 31 followed by a funeral home service at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Home, 628 N. Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.  Burial with military honors were bestowed in Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Rd. Schuylerville, NY.

The family would like to thank the staff at the Wesley Community for the kindness and care they gave to Robert.

in lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in memory of Robert to support cancer research and patient care at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284 or via jimmyfund.org/gift.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.