Robert J. Stone

Our adored father, Robert J. Stone quietly parted this life on December 19, 2024. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, uncle, and son. We always considered our father a “lion” and a Renaissance Man of sorts with his wide range of strengths and talents. Robert was the son of the late Bernard and Frances Stone born on March 14,1934 and was a proud resident of Eastwood in Syracuse, N.Y. He was a graduate of Eastwood High School. He was involved in many sports and activities in the community and school. After graduation he attended SUNY Brockport, where he played college football and received his Bachelor’s in Political Science continuing his advanced education in human services at Syracuse University. While in the military he served as a Private First Class and Weapons Specialist in the United States Army and was posted in Germany where he patrolled the German/Czech Border. He was united in holy matrimony to Janet M. Spenard also from Eastwood on September 15, 1956. Their union was blessed with three children, Valerie Stone, Dean Stone and Todd Stone and later blessed with their favorite grandson, Corey Stone. Robert served honorably and tirelessly as Commissioner of Social Services for Onondaga County. He was also President of New York State Social Services Department. His commitment to the well-being of others with particular focus on the vulnerable in society was unmatched and determined. Our Father had many passions that involved various political, community, athletic, cultural and social activities. Upon retirement Dad joined the Grey Wolves ice hockey team where he “made and took” many hits for the team. Another adventure he accomplished was flying solo after achieving his pilot’s license. He enjoyed flying different friends and family to many locations. Dad also was a self-taught wine connoisseur and made both red and white wines labeling them Stone Cellar Wines. Dad was known to refinish antique furniture in another area of the cellar (close to his punching bag and other weightlifting/training machines). Dad was a life-long reader of nonfiction texts. He loved military movies, music and Italy. To name only a few of Dad’s loving acts that made for a wonderful childhood rich in experiences, Dean and I will always remember him making our own ice-skating rink, movies projected on the back wall of the house in the backyard, and colorful holidays. We always had our “bullet” on Christmas morning, which was a particularly special gift given to each of us…kind of like a finale. As our patriarch he was loved by both his immediate family, including nieces and nephews of whom he loved very much. We would also like to extend an especially warm and heartfelt thank you to his devoted and loving caregivers Cyndi, Sirena, Tatiana and Vicki. Robert was preceded in death by his loving and devoted wife, Janet Stone, son, Todd Stone, grandson, Corey Stone and his daughter-in-law, Kathy Stone. Also predeceased were his two siblings, Donald Stone and Rita Gatto. A celebration of our father’s life will be held Friday, December 27, 2024 at Blessed Sacrament Church, 3127 James Street, Syracuse, N.Y. 13206. The family will meet guests from 9:15-10:15 a.m. at Blessed Sacrament Church followed by a Catholic Mass at 10:30 a.m. and burial at St. Mary’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family request all donations to: American Parkinson Disease Association, P.O. Box 61420, Staten Island, N.Y. 10306. Dad…You will always have our hearts, our souls, and our love, forever.

Robert J. Stone

March 14, 1934 - December 19, 2024