Robert "Bob" Mattina

Robert (Bob) Mattina, a devoted husband, son, brother, father, and grandfather, lived a life defined by love and generosity. As a respected businessman, mentor, and loyal friend, his kindness and humility touched all those who knew him.

Bob dedicated much of his life to the family business, founded in 1955 by his father-in-law, Pasquale Pezzimenti. After purchasing the business in 1977, Bob led the company with vision, integrity, and a commitment to helping others. By building strong rapport with customers, colleagues, and industry partners around the world, he proudly led the family business into its fourth generation. Business was never just about transactions—it was about people. Many professional relationships became lifelong friendships.

But above all else, Bob’s greatest pride was his family.

Bob grew up in St. Louis, Missouri, with a close-knit Italian American family. His mother Vita (Grace) (née Sciarmitaro) and father Antonino Mattina raised him in a "village" that was deeply connected and supportive, he spent much of his childhood with his grandparents and extended family. He spent his younger days running through the neighborhood with his uncles, who were as much his friends as they were family, and naturally took on the role of mentor and protector to his younger brothers Dominic and Vincent.

Fast-forward to high school, where Bob met the love of his life, Cathy. Days after graduating from college, they married and shared 52 beautiful years together. Through faith, love, hard work, and unconditional devotion, they raised five children with an unbreakable bond, even in the face of life’s challenges.

Believing there is no greater joy than spending time together, they created a lifetime of memories—from adventurous vacations and milestone celebrations to simple family meals shared around a big table. Through every season of life, Bob and Cathy also treasured their time as a couple, most recently experiencing the thrill of European river cruises and enjoying the culture, food, and architecture together, just the two of them.

A loving father to Tony (Summer), Nicolas (Francesca), Andrea (Nick), Stephanie (Corey), and Michael, they will forever carry the lessons they learned through his example: to love, work hard, be honest and generous, keep your word, and always make time for people.

Nothing brought Bob greater pride than being "Papa" to his grandchildren: Milo (Tony and Summer); Alessandro, Massimo, and Giulia (Nicolas and Francesca); Enza, Toni, Vero, Nicco, and Via (Andrea and Nick); and Vita (Stephanie and Corey). He never missed an opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments, whether they were big or small. He shared pictures, videos, and stories about each of them with anyone willing to listen. His love for them was immeasurable, and they all knew how deeply they were loved by their sweet Papa.

Bob believed there was always room for one more at the table and a place to call home for anyone in need. Whether someone needed a place to stay for dinner, a night, a few weeks, or even years, Bob and Cathy warmly opened their hearts and home without hesitation.

Bob’s legacy lives on through the business he built and the values he instilled in his family. By leading with generosity, grace, and quiet strength, his virtues will continue to live on in every life he touched.

Although his passing leaves behind broken hearts, there is comfort in imagining him at peace. Bob has no pain, no stress, and no health problems in the Kingdom of God. We imagine him in good company, enjoying perfectly griddled pancakes, crispy bacon, and a never-ending cup of hot coffee.

We know he is smiling and watching over us as he leaves behind a legacy of love that will endure for generations. Bob, Dad, Papa—you are profoundly missed, remembered, and loved.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital by clicking here