Robert "Bob" Reale

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday May 11th, 2024 at 1:00 pm at the Cook-Walden Chapel of the Hills Funeral Home, 9700 Anderson Mill Rd., Austin, Texas 78750.

Bob Reale was born in New York, New York to Salvatore and Christina Reale on April 11, 1939. He met the love of his life, Marie Schettino, at age 11 in upstate New York while visiting relatives there. He told her they would be married and indeed they were on Christmas Day in 1956. They were married for 58 years. During that time, Bob, who was a dreamer and an idea guy, wore many hats. He hustled to provide for his young family, doing whatever it took to keep things going. They were blessed with 5 beautiful children, three sons and two daughters, whom they loved dearly. The majority of Bob’s free time throughout the years was spent poolside at their home in Leander, watching his kids, grandkids and great-grandkids make memories together. Bob and Marie’s home was the entertainment hub for parties, weddings, showers, barbeques, volleyball games and of course every holiday. They always opened their home to their friends, their children’s friends and their grandchildren’s friends. And many of those friends became extended family.

In 1976, Bob brought his family to Texas for a new adventure. It didn’t take long for Bob to hit his stride. After a few stints in insurance and real estate, Bob found his niche, and Reale’s Pizzeria was born. It was a family effort to get things off the ground and there were some struggles and losses along the way. The restaurant went through a few transitions before becoming the beloved community staple that has brought so many of you into our lives. The restaurant was truly his joy and passion. There was nothing he loved more than spending time there, telling his legendary stories and creating new friendships. He missed it desperately when he could no longer come in and “schmooze”. It hardly seems possible or real that he won’t be coming through those doors again, to enjoy what he worked so hard to create. We are grateful we were able to share this man with the world and with all of you who knew him.

Bob is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marie, and his eldest daughter, Rena.

Bob is survived by his son, Salvatore Reale, son, Jimmy Reale and wife Paula, son Gino Reale, daughter, Christina Reale Hudgins and husband Dustin. Bob also leaves behind 12 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.

The Family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to the many, many people who have supported us with prayer and friendship. We can’t imagine navigating this loss without you. Words cannot convey our thankfulness.