Robert L. Berner, lovingly known as Bobby, passed away peacefully at the age of 62 on June 22nd, 2025, surrounded by his family at Yale New Haven Hospital. Born in New Haven on October 14th, 1962, Bobby was the beloved son of Patricia C. Berner and the late Gene Berner Sr.
Bobby's life was enriched by his cherished family, including his siblings Deborah (Frank) Berner-Siciliano, Gene (Terri Eaton) Berner Jr., Patricia (Stephen) Squeglia, and Daniel (Stephanie) Berner. He was a devoted uncle to Cameron (Vanessa) Siciliano, Kalie (Ralph) Peccerillo, Heather (Nick Cerillo) Berner, Matthew Squeglia, Tristan Berner, Evelyn Berner, and Henry Berner, and a proud great-uncle to Beau and Lucas Siciliano. Bobby is also survived by his dear Godmother Phyllis Reed, numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and special friends Jan and David, all of whom he held close to his heart.
In addition to his father, Bobby was predeceased by many relatives he adored, especially his grandmothers Eva Berner and Annamae Campbell, and Auntie Helen Finta. He attended East Haven Public Schools and graduated from the Foundation School in Orange, CT. Bobby often reminisced about working at Frank’s Nursery and Crafts and as a clerk at Stop and Shop.
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Bobby had a creative spirit; he learned to crochet, loved drawing characters from his favorite show "Bewitched," and was passionate about his dollhouse collection. He was a lifelong fan of the comic strip Peanuts, Bing Crosby, and Elizabeth Montgomery. Bobby was a great joke teller who loved to make other people laugh, often making himself laugh in the process. His family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Joe, Gil, and the staff at Highvue Manor, Barbara, Cheryl, Andre, and the entire staff at Arden House, as well as Rosemary, Dr. Meza, Dr. Matesva, and the staff at Yale New Haven Hospital for their compassionate care.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at the PORTO FUNERAL HOME, 234 Foxon Rd. (Rt. 80), East Haven, CT on Sunday, June 29th, from 4pm to 6pm. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Bobby’s name to the Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital Fund (www.ynhh.org/childrens-hospital) or the Make-a-Wish Foundation (www.wish.org). Sign Bobby’s guest book online at www.portofuneralhomes.net.
