Obituary of Robert Christian Marshall

Robert C. "Chris" Marshall, age 75, of Rome, passed away peacefully on June 9, 2024 at Rome Health, after a brief illness.   

Chris was born in Redbank, NJ on April 19, 1949 to Val and Barbara Bauman Marshall, and was educated in the Rome Schools. On June 15, 1968, he was united in marriage to the former Diana Fitzgerald, a union that began with a Vespa sale and lasted almost 56 years. Chris was a creative entrepreneur and artist who pursued his passions and forged his own unique path in life. He owned and operated several local businesses including Pack Rats, Old World Design, Marshall Arts, and the Flaming Earth Candle Company, which leveraged his creativity and expertise in fields ranging from antiques & candle making to metal artistry & leatherwork. Chris’s artisan talents were passed down to his son and grandchildren, along with his love for classic cars and motorcycles.   

Chris was proud of his wood burning fireplace and his massive, flawlessly straight stacks of firewood that were legendary throughout the neighborhood. Chris made sure to leave Diana plenty of firewood to burn through next winter.   

Chris is survived by his loving wife, Diana; son, Luke (Jennifer) Marshall of Rome; two grandchildren, Alice & Luke Jr., who adored him and whom he enthralled with tall tales; several nieces, grandnieces, and grandnephews; and two dear friends, Frank and Theresa Born. He was predeceased by his parents, and by his brother, Val Marshall.   

Chris's funeral will be held on Friday at 6 PM at the Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street. 

Relatives and friends may call at the funeral home from 4 to 6 PM prior to the funeral.   

The family would like to thank Rome Health for their care and attention to Chris throughout his illness.   

Please offer online condolences at: www.BarryFuneralHome.com.