Robert Anthony Longo

Robert A. Longo, 74, of Bath, Maine, passed away peacefully on June 19, 2025, surrounded by his girls.

Bob was born in Syracuse, NY, where he spent most of his life. Over the years he worked for several companies including Miller Brewing, Bombardier, and Paperworks, from which he eventually retired.

He was married to Susan (Kremin) Longo for 51 years. Together they built a life, raised three daughters, and instilled in them the importance of family and hard work.

The couple moved to Bath in 2018 to be closer to their one and only grandchild. 

A unique and unconventional individual, Bob was many things to many people: a mentor, a teacher, a comedian, a friend, a protector, - and, at times, a force to be reckoned with.

To his wife, Susie, he was Bobby - her rock.
 

To his daughters—Elizabeth, Sheila-Ann (Lamontagne), and Cynthia/Cyndi—he was Dad, Daddy, Daddio, Tickle Monster, Wiskerhair and Papa Bear: a sometimes curmudgeonly, but always fierce and unwavering supporter that he would drop anything for.
 

To his granddaughter, Amelia Lamontagne, he was her fearless and silly “BADA.” He was her favorite toy. Squeals of laughter could always be heard when the two of them were together.
 

To his siblings—Rocco Jr., Patrick, Stephanie (Moncavage), Stanley, and David—he was more than a brother, he was ‘Big Bad Bob’: a grounding presence, a keeper of stories, a source of quiet strength and not so quiet humor.

He was Uncle Bob, Uncle Bobby, or ‘UNC,’ to many beloved nieces and nephews.  On the Longo side: Chrissy (Goddaughter) and Nicole (the “other daughter”), Jason and Janelle (Tripoli), Rocco and Brielle, and Violet (Moncavage).   From the Welch Clan: Robert, Stephen, Joseph, and Kathleen (Gardiner).  He was present for all the kids in different ways through the years.  It would be remiss not mention grand nieces and nephews: Alexandria and her sons Oliver and Liam, Brianna and her son Quinn, Dylan, Cailey, Grace Ann, and Patrick.

Bob was a man of simple pleasures.  He found peace wandering in the woods and hunting with his brothers, joy in time spent with loved ones, satisfaction in supporting local businesses, and purpose through his dedicated volunteering at the Erie Canal Park Museum in Camillus, NY and the Wiscasset, Waterville & Farmington Railway in Alna, ME.

Bob was a friend to animals from childhood, known to nurse injured creatures back to health.  Later in life he earned the nickname “The Chipmunk Whisperer” for his knack with the neighborhood wildlife.  He would call his daughters to report daily chipmunk antics detailing how they would take peanuts from his overall pockets or yell at him through the screen door if he was late for meal time.

While volunteering at the Erie Canal Park Museum, Bob took part in a unique moment in history: during the 1996 Summer Olympic Torch Relay, the torch was carried aboard a replica 19th-century packet boat and pulled by mule 2 miles along the Erie Canal. Bob Longo was the pilot of that boat.

At the WW&F Railway he was a beloved steam engineer and lifetime member. Bob was affectionately known as “Bullet Bob” for his speed, finesse, and skill. He was in his element in the cab of a locomotive—and was remarked upon by some as “an artist with the throttle.”   He found a second family among the railway crew, especially Dana “Everett” Deering, “Uncle” Steve Zuppa, and his ever-present sons-in-law, Jason Lamontagne, and Joshua Recave (Bob’s right-hand fireman). Nearly every steam crew member benefited from his guidance.

Bob had little time for what didn’t capture his interest, but a deep understanding of the subjects that did. He was willing to share his vast knowledge, but only with those inclined to listen and prepared to learn.  Many have proudly said they learned “everything they know about…” from him.

Though not usually fond of large gatherings, Bob often ended up at their center—leading stories around the table, sharing music, spinning yarns, and, most of all, making people laugh.

His passing leaves a Bob-Shaped hole in the hearts of many.

Bob is predeceased by his parents, Rocco Longo Sr., and Stephania (Lis), his nephew, Jason M Tripoli, and his lifelong friend and “partner in crime,” John Thomas Steele III.

A Remembrance Gathering will be held on Sunday, July 20th, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Byrnes Irish Pub, 38 Centre Street, Bath, Maine.

Details for a Remembrance event in Syracuse, New York this August 17,2025.   Calling hours will be held on Sunday, August 17, 2025 from 4-6 pm at the Butler & Badman Funeral Home, 4504 W Seneca Tpke, Syracuse, NY  13215  

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on August 18, 2025 at 11am at St Michael’s Church, 4782 W Seneca Tpke, Syracuse, NY 

In lieu of flowers the family is requesting memorial donations to St. Jude’s Research Hospital and/or the continued restoration and rebuilding of locomotive number 10 at the Wiscasset, Waterville and Farmington Railway in Alna, Maine.

His family would love for you to share remembrances of Bob here: https://tinyurl.com/rememberingboblongo

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