Robert "Bob" Pastorino, 78, of Brevard, NC died on April 1, 2025. He was born in Mt.Prospect, IL in 1946 to Chalres and Anne Pastorino, attended Mt. Prospect High School and graduated in 1965. Shortly after graduating, Bob went to work with his father at G.L Simmons Co.

In 1968 he enlisted in the Navy and served 3 years in Vietnam. He joined a team nicknamed the "River Rats" and his primary duties were patrolling the MeKong Delta, providing support to ground troops, and repairing diesel marine vessels. During his tours in Vietnam he earned the National Defense Service Medal, Navy Unit Commendation, Combat Action Ribbon, Vietnam Service Medal with Bronze Star, and Vietnam Campaign Medal.

After his honorable discharge from the Navy in 1971, Bob returned home to Illinois and enrolled at Southern Illinois University where he earned his degree in business. There he also met the love of his life, Sharon Neuls. Excited to start their lives together, the two were married on June 29, 1974 in Chicago, IL. Bob and Sharon couldn't wait to start a family of their own and in 1978, their first child Scott was born followed 3 years later by another son, Jeffrey. Shortly after, the couple decided to move to Libertyville, IL where they planted roots to raise their family and where they spent over 30 years making friends and memories that truly lasted a lifetime.

During this time, Bob worked for his father at his company G.L Simmons. After many years of hard work as an employee, Bob had found his passion and decided to purchase half of the business after his father retired. For 27 years he worked as a Machinist and Tool & Die maker until 2003 when he retired and sold the business.

In 2004 Bob and Sharon, now empty nesters, decided to sell their home in Libertyville and move to Brevard, NC to begin retirement. Not being able to sit still for long, Bob soon took a job working at Transylvania County Landfill where he met many local residents over the years. Bob and Sharon truly found a place to call home in Brevard and over the years they developed strong relationships with neighbors and friends who began to feel like family.

Bob will always be remembered for his joy of life, his generosity, his ability to tell a great story, and his amazing sense of humor. His memory will live on in our hearts and in all those who loved him.

Bob was preceded in death by his wife Sharon, and parents Charles and Anne. He is survived by his children Scott, Jeffrey (Toni), and grandson Logan as well as his sister Patricia.

A Memorial Service will be held on April 17, 2025 at 4:00 pm at Moody-Connolly funeral home in Brevard, NC.

Online condolences may be left at www.moodyconnollyfuneralhome.com .

Moody Connolly Funeral Home is caring for the family.