Obituary of Robert Michael Ballister
Robert Michael Ballister, 57, passed away on Monday, March 2, 2020, at his home.
Robert, known as Bob to his family and friends, was born on January 12, 1963 in Rome, NY to parents, Carolyn Gail (Kohli) and Wilson “Buzz” Fredrick Ballister. He grew up in Floyd, New York with his parents, and two brothers.
Bob graduated from Holland Patent High School in 1981. He also graduated from SUNY Morrisville and University of Phoenix where he received a Bachelor’s with an emphasis in Education. He earned many awards and honors during his 35-year career in the food and beverage industry that took him to more than seven major US cities. In 2015, after his mother’s passing, Bob put his career on hold to return to Central New York to care for his ailing father. Most recently, he successfully directed the food and beverage program for Adirondack Central School District.
Bob was an avid reader and enjoyed playing softball in many of the cities he called home over the years. He was also animal advocate having adopted many shelter dogs and cats in his life. The compassion he demonstrated to his pets was unyielding.
Bob is survived by his two brothers, Dean Charles of Covington, KY and Daniel Wilson of Palm Springs, CA, and several aunts, uncles and cousins. He is predeceased by his parents, Carolyn and Wilson.
Calling hours will be held at Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street in Rome, on Friday, March 6th from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held at Barry Funeral Home on Saturday, March 7th at 11:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in memory of Bob to the Stevens-Swan Human Society in Utica, NY.
Please offer online condolences at: www.BarryFuneralHome.com.