Robert V. Belfatto, Sr.
Born on August 5, 1940, in Philadelphia, PennsylvaniaPassed April 26, 2025, in Melbourne Beach, Florida
Robert V. Belfatto, Sr., a devoted family man and accomplished electrical engineer, passed away on April 26, 2025, at the age of 84. Born on August 5, 1940, to Vincent and Rose Belfatto, Robert grew up with a strong foundation of love and values that guided him throughout his life.
Robert proudly served in the US Army from 1963 to 1966. After his service, he built a successful career as an electrical engineer. In 1978, he moved to Florida to work at Harris, where he contributed his expertise to innovative projects. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to open his own Electro Optics firm in 1982, which became a hub for cutting-edge technology. Robert’s ingenuity and creativity earned him at least 10 patents, a testament to his innovative mind. He retired from his company in 2004, leaving behind a legacy of technological advancements.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Robert had a passion for cats, particularly Persians. Alongside his beloved wife Diana Marchesano Belfatto, he was an avid breeder and exhibitor with the Cat Fanciers’ Association. The Belfattos began showing cats in the 1980s and remained dedicated to the cat fancy community until their passing. Their love for these beautiful animals brought them joy and companionship, and their dedication to the breed earned them respect among fellow fanciers.
Robert’s family was his greatest joy. He cherished his marriage to Diana, who lovingly supported him until her passing in March 2023. Together, they faced life’s challenges with courage and love. The family also experienced the loss of their eldest son, Robert Belfatto Jr, in 2016, a sorrow that deeply affected Robert.
Robert is survived by his children, Lisa Belfatto and Michael Belfatto, and his daughter-in-law Pati Belfatto. His grandchildren, Lucas and Katarina Folger, and Jace Belfatto, brought immense happiness and pride to his life. His siblings, Charles Belfatto, Joanne Belfatto Melnick O’Donnell, and Kathleen Belfatto Giannini, were also a source of love and support.
Robert’s legacy is one of love, resilience, and dedication. His family will deeply miss him, but his memory will live on through the countless lives he touched.
Services for Bob Belfatto will be held as follows:
– A Celebration of Life will take place on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at 4 pm at Brownlie Maxwell Funeral Home. All are welcome to attend and share in the joy of remembering Robert’s life.
– Internment and Military Honors will be held on Friday, June 20, 2025, at 10 am at the Cape Canaveral National Cemetery, Lane A. The ceremony will last approximately 20 minutes.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to HOPE for Brevard, a local cat rescue organization that reflects Robert’s compassion for animals or the American Heart Association in Robert’s memory:
