Robert “Bobby” Leaver was one of seven children born to loving parents, Joseph and Patricia, in Brooklyn, New York. He and his wife, Rosaria, met at age seventeen. They were devoted to each other and were blessed with 38 years together. He loved his fur babies, Abigail, Zachariah, and Lucy-Lu, and they returned his love tenfold. He loved and was loved by his siblings, Billy, Joyce, Joseph, Donald, Jean Marie, and Michael; his nieces and nephews; his in-laws, Michael, Anne, Nick, Diana, and Michael; all extended family, friends, and neighbors. A man with many friends, he was always there for anyone who needed him.

Robert was a dedicated firefighter with the FDNY for 20 years. A first responder on September 11, 2001, he bravely faced terror along with all his brother firefighters, police, and first responders. Many of his friends, some he grew up with, some he worked with, were lost that day.

Robert was diagnosed with leukemia and battled the disease courageously for eleven years. He never considered himself a victim of September 11th. He was a first responder, a proud member of the bravest of the brave. He was one of three FDNY firefighters who died on the same day from 9/11 related cancers.

Robert will be remembered for his kind heart, quiet strength, quick wit, and great sense of humor. He lives in our hearts and is shining brightly in God’s light.