Robert Farina

Robert was born on Dec. 29, 1952, in Jacksonville, FL and grew up in College Park.

In 1971, he graduated from Edgewater High School and played baseball and football throughout his years as an Eagle. In his senior year, Robert received the Vinnie Zappini award for outstanding character. He went on to receive his bachelor’s degree in psychology from FSU, where he met his future wife, Jenny Walker. From that point, he returned to Orlando and taught in his field for seven years, during which time he completed his master's degree in Instructional Technology at UCF. He began his career in Instructional Systems Development at the Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Div. (NAWCTSD). After 33 years as an Instructional Systems Specialist for the Dept. of Defense, he retired with many distinguished awards, recognitions of merit, leadership acknowledgments, excellent professional ratings, and the high esteem of his colleagues.

In addition, Robert volunteered as a Team Lead for the recruitment of students from Central Florida High Schools, providing them with stem experiences in military technology. His volunteerism combined with his passion for baseball carried over to coaching his three sons and grandson. He also was a baseball manager and coach for several youth programs, including Little League, Pony League, and the Amateur Athletic Union League. He transitioned into an enthusiastic baseball spectator and supporter as his boys progressed to high school, college and even one to the professional level.

Rob's other passions included listening to southern rock, blues and jazz and rooting for his favorite teams: FSU, Clemson, and Toronto Blue Jays. But his family trips to the beach and mountains, Italian food and, most of all, spending time with his family were his favorties.

Rob was predeceased by his father, Mario Farina, and mother, Dinorah Fleitas Fulmer. He is survived by his wife, Jenny Farina and their three sons: Alan and wife, Britni; Vincent and wife, Jessi; Brian Farina; six grandchildren: Maddox, Journi, Jaylie, Marli, Kinley, and Ace; sister, Lucretia Head; and brothers, Victor and Michael Farina. He had an immeasurable devotion to his family and will be missed dearly.

Celebration of Life service will be held on Friday, Dec. 29 at 1:00 p.m. at River Run Christian Church, 141 River Run Pt., Chuluota, FL 32766

Burial in Woodlawn Cemetery in Gotha, FL 34734 at 3:30 p.m.