After nine courageous years of battling cancer, our beloved Robert E. “Bob” Hafner Sr. peacefully earned his angel wings, surrounded by the love of his family.

Bob was truly one in a billion. A man with a heart of gold, a wonderful sense of humor, and a love for his family that knew no bounds. He was a devoted husband, an extraordinary father, a loving grandfather, and a protector to those he loved. To know him was to love him, and to be loved by him was a blessing.

Born and raised in Staten Island, New York, Bob proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, he built a successful career in computer recovery services, eventually owning his own business and retiring early. He believed in working hard, following your dreams, and always staying true to yourself. But of all his accomplishments, his greatest pride and joy was always his family.

His greatest love story was the 57 beautiful years he shared with his beloved wife, Cathy Hafner. Introduced through Cathy’s cousin Linda and Bob’s brother Johnny, they built a life together rooted in love, resilience, forgiveness, and strength. Their bond was a true testament to a lifetime of love and devotion.

Bob was a proud and loving father to his children Aprile, Michelle, Bobby and his wife Jessie and Danielle, and an adored Grandpa and Papa to Steven Daniel and his wife Xuxa, Julien, and Jocelyn. Whether it was playing Fortnite, watching soccer together, sharing laughter, or his playful “Ding Ding, Grandpa Is the King” and sweet “Pineapple Princess,” he had a special way of making his grandchildren feel loved and cherished, creating memories they will carry in their hearts forever.

He loved sports, especially soccer and golf, music, telling stories, vacations, trips to the casino, and making everyone around him laugh. And no one will ever forget how he complained about all the unnecessary “crap” in the family group chat, especially the endless news articles and random facts! Those little complaints are things we would give anything to hear again.

Aruba will never be quite the same without him, the golf courses and casinos will always hold a piece of his spirit, and even a bite of chicken from Huey Magoo’s will bring back a smile.

Bob faced his battle with cancer with extraordinary courage. He never gave up, fighting with every ounce of strength until the very end. Although our hearts are broken, we find comfort knowing he is finally free from pain and at peace.

His absence will be felt beyond words, especially by his beloved Cathy, who shared nearly six decades by his side. His children have lost their protector, his grandchildren their beloved Grandpa and Papa, and everyone who knew him has lost someone truly irreplaceable.

Dad, you fought so hard for so long. Now it’s your turn to rest. May you soar with the angels and watch over the family you loved so dearly. Life will never be the same without you, but your love, smile, laughter, and beautiful memories will live in our hearts forever.

Until we meet again, our husband, our father, our Grandpa, our Papa, and our forever hero. You were one in a billion, and you will be loved and missed beyond words. ❤️🕊️

In lieu of Flowers, please donate to Here American Legion Post 347 (Lady Lake / The Villages)

Mission: As the nation's largest American Legion post, they manage local relief funds, support active military families, and assist veterans with VA benefits and housing emergencies.

How to Donate:

In Person / Mail: Contact or mail checks directly to the post:

⁠American Legion Post 347⁠

⁠699 Rolling Acres Rd, Lady Lake, FL 32159⁠

Phone: (352)-750-2099

In remembrance of Robert Ernest Hafner Sr