Robert E. DiFlorio PhD's Obituary
Robert E. DiFlorio, PhD, 87, of Brewerton, NY, passed away peacefully in his home on Monday July 27, 2026, surrounded by his children. Robert “Bob” was born September 25, 1938, in Syracuse, NY to Angelo and Angeline DiFlorio. Bob is the second youngest of six children. He graduated from SUNY Oswego with a BA in education. Bob then received his master’s degree at Syracuse University and became a school guidance counselor at Madison Junior High School in the Syracuse City School District. He later earned a PhD in child and family studies at Syracuse University and became the superintendent of the Syracuse City School District.
In 1964, Bob married Irene, his loving wife of 58 years. They found joy in making aprons they sold at the state fair. Renovating their children’s houses and traveling the world together. Bob and Irene drove across country twice and visited all 50 states. They would spend months every year in Florence Italy.
Bob was deeply passionate about education and held a special love for the Syracuse City Schools. He never turned down a dish of pasta or a glass of wine, and as a self-proclaimed World War II buff, he enjoyed studying history. His greatest joy came from spending time with family, traveling, reading and history. In retirement, he discovered a special passion for beekeeping alongside his son, Rob. Those days spent together created lasting memories and reflected his lifelong curiosity and love of learning.
In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by three of his siblings.
Bob is survived by his four children: Therese Brennan (David) Julie Albanese (Frank), Robert DiFlorio (Lori) and Linda Rodriguez (Joe), along with 12 grandchildren: Joseph, Natale, Stephen, Francesca, Angelo, Adriana, Daniel, Andrew, Rocco, Vincent, TJ, and Alessia: his sister, Mary Jane; his brother, Edward (Gloria) and several nieces and nephews.
A funeral Mass in celebration of Bob’s life will be held on Thursday, July 30, 2026 at 9:30 am in Holy Cross Church, 4112 E. Genesee St. Syracuse, NY, followed by entombment at Woodlawn Cemetery Mausoleum. Family and friends may call from 4:00 – 6:00 pm on Wednesday, July 29, 2026 at the THOMAS J. PIRRO JR. FUNERAL HOME, 3401 Vickery Rd. (corner of Buckley Rd.) N. Syracuse, NY.
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