Bob graduated from Commerce High School in Yonkers, NY, and furthered his education at Westchester Community College, where he earned an associate degree. Bob had MANY certifications and licenses through his illustrious lifetime, always aiming to be the best at the chosen profession of the time.
He proudly served in the United States Army from 1976 to 1980, a period during which he dedicated himself to his country with honor. He was the mentor for the Boy Scouts in Germany during his deployment, which brought him great joy. Bob served the Boy Scouts of America in serval ways domestically and abroad. He firmly believed the life skills and mentorship gained by the youth in those organizations was priceless and essential.
Professionally, Bob was the quintessential “utility player” with the ability to take on new tasks/skills and apply life experience and professionalism to whatever work he was doing. Bob was a respected figure in community management. His passion for community management started in 2005 when he began working for Elliot Merrill in Vero Beach, Florida and fell in love with the daily challenges and experiences. Most recently, He was the Director of CAM training at Artemis Lifestyles. Throughout his life, Bob owned several businesses, including Florida CAM Courses, & Golden Sands Community Management. Previously Bob also owned Image First Communications with his wife Janet, and “The Doowop DJ”, where he performed as a DJ for many years in the Hudson Valley, NY area. Bobs love of music transcended all genres, but his passion for “oldies” and later Jimmy Buffet were his go to songs and sources for comfort and Joy.
Bob’s personal life was filled with joy from his hobbies, which included watching pro football & specifically the NY Giants. Bob coached his son and teammates in Pop Warner football all the way to the Dutchess County Championship in the mid 90s which always brought a smile to his face when he recounted those memories. Bob loved the true competitive nature of little league baseball and never missed a World Series, watching & following Golf, even enjoying following the world of Professional Wrestling in which Bob attended the first 8 Wrestlemanias. He was a beacon of knowledge, entertainment and fun in every gathering he attended and will forever be missed by all who spent time with him and under his learning tree.
Family was everything to Bob, and he was a proud Husband, Father, and Grandfather. He is survived by his children, Robert J. Begley Jr. and Lauren A. Castaldo ( Nee Begley); son-in-law Chris Castaldo; future daughter-in-law Melissa Beck; and grandchildren Ronan Begley, Nicholas Castaldo, Austin Begley, Mila Begley, bonus grand daughter Brooklyn Castaldo and his trusty pal Chase Begley his Golden Retriever. He also leaves behind his cousin, Deborah Gemborowski, and his very close “almost family” the Gomez family.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, William and Gloria Begley, and his beloved wife, Janet Begley. We know that Bob and Janet are reunited in true “love story” fashion, and will be watching over the family as angels side by side with God.
The final arrangements for a memorial service will be determined at a later date. Contributions in memory of Bob can be made to Hospice House. The Dobbs Funeral Home in Orlando, FL, is assisting the family during this difficult time.
