Robert “Bob” Coppola dies at 73

Bob died peacefully surrounded by family on October 10. Born in Flushing, Queens, Bob was a life-long resident of Valley Stream and graduated from Valley Stream Central High School, Class of 1970. He was 73.

A highly skilled plumber, he owned and operated “Robert Coppola Plumbing & Heating” for over two decades and served on the Village of Valley Stream’s plumbing board. Bob was predeceased by his parents, Robert and Irene, and son Robert Ernest Coppola. He is survived by his wife of over 50 years, Rosann, his two daughters and their spouses, Andrea and Ray Fritzen and Cara and Michael Acanfora, his four wonderful grandchildren Ray, Rose, Max and Jacob, and his sister Kim Horan.

In his youth, Bob was an active member of the American Sea Rangers, Battalion 5. He was a creative craftsman and wood worker whose hobbies included hunting, gardening, and boating as a member of the Keystone Yacht Club. Bob volunteered with the Valley Stream Kiwanis Club, serving as President in addition to other leadership positions. On Sylvan Place, Bob was famous for his Christmas decorations. His hand-crafted arches adorned the driveways of nearly half of the block and were a fixture for the holidays.

As a beloved husband, father, uncle, grandfather, brother-in-law, neighbor, and friend, Bob will be fondly remembered for his caring nature, good advice, and wonderful sense of humor. His memory will be cherished by all who knew him and he will forever live in our hearts. Services will be held at N. F. Walker Funeral Home in Merrick on Monday, October 16, from 2 to 4 pm and 7 to 9 pm. A funeral mass will be held at Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church in Merrick, on Tuesday, October 17 at 10 a.m