Robert J. Zaccaria

Robert Joseph "Bob" Zaccaria, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully in his home on January 10th in Syracuse, NY, after a 13-year battle with Parkinson’s disease. Born on June 10th, 1955, in Syracuse, NY, to Onofrio and Antonina Zaccaria, Bob lived a life full of love, service, and joy.

Bob was a man with a heart as big as his personality. Charismatic, playful, and endlessly generous, he made everyone feel like family. Whether through storytelling, well-timed jokes, or the constant hum of a familiar tune, his presence filled every room. But beyond his entertaining spirit lay a genuine desire to help others, finding joy in the simple acts of service that came so naturally to him.

A proud graduate of Arizona State University, Bob's professional journey reflected his passion for helping others. Through his business, Action Ear Hearing, he transformed countless lives, building lasting relationships with the people he served.

Bob also served his country with honor and dedication for 21 years as a Technical Sergeant in the Air National Guard's 174th Fighter Wing.

A gifted musician and artist, Bob’s creative spirit found expression in many forms. He owned his own photography studio, capturing moments and memories for others. His love for music led him to play percussion in his high school marching band, teach his son Rob how to play the drums, and serve on the worship team at Abundant Life Church, where he was a devoted member for 34 years. At church, Bob also manned the camera and soundboard, always ready to lend his talents to enrich the community he cherished.

Family was Bob’s greatest passion and deepest joy. For over 38 years, he shared a loving marriage with Ann, his steadfast partner in life. Together, they raised four children: Chelsea (Erin) Castor, Rachel (Isaac Ladd) Zaccaria, Robert Zaccaria, and Rebecca Zaccaria. His grandchildren—Ethan Krause-Castor, Evelina Christopher, Samuel Krause-Castor, Adelina Krause-Castor, and Jasper Ladd—were his greatest treasure. 

Despite the physical distance between them, Bob's family remained remarkably close-knit throughout his life. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Rose Zaccaria and Gabriel Zaccaria. He is survived by his siblings Dolores Zaccaria, Kathleen Barraco, and Mary (Richard) Armstrong, as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends. His cousin and lifelong best friend, Armond Scipione stood beside him throughout all of life’s chapters, demonstrating the rare gift of unwavering friendship.

Bob's life was a testament to the importance of family, and his legacy lives on through the countless memories and traditions he created with his loved ones. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all whose lives he touched.

A special thank you to Dr. Hassan Shukri, his neurologist, who provided compassionate care and guided him through his 13-year battle with Parkinson's, and to Patrick VanBeveran and the Empower Parkinson's community for their invaluable support and friendship along the way.

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, January 14th, from 4-6 PM, with a funeral service immediately following at 6 PM, both at Abundant Life Church, 7000 All Nations Blvd, East Syracuse, NY. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Empower Parkinson Inc., a local non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by Parkinson's disease. Donations can be made online at www.empowerparkinson.org or mailed to Empower Parkinson Inc., P.O. Box 353 Tully, NY 13159