Robert Edward Barr, 68, passed away unexpectedly at his home on February 11, 2026.

Born in Jamaica, NY in 1957 to the late Robert and Marilyn Barr.

Bob grew up traveling to Palenville and after years of vacationing there, his family built a summer home, making the mountains a permanent part of their lives. Bob loved the mountains deeply and cherished the lifelong friendships he formed there. Although he made DeLand, FL his home, Palenville always held the most special place in his heart.

Bob wore many hats throughout his life, but his true calling was as an auto mechanic. Cars were more than metal and machinery to him. They were challenges to unravel, stories to preserve, and a craft to master. His knowledge was remarkable; he could take an engine apart and rebuild it with an ease that seemed instinctive. He had a special love for vintage cars and found his greatest comfort in ‘Bob’s Garage’. It was more than a workspace; it was the place where his talent, patience, and passion came together and where he truly felt most at home.

Bob had a wonderful sense of humor and was fiercely independent. True to himself and genuine in spirit, he was happiest surrounded by friends, sharing laughter and conversation over a cold beer.

He is predeceased by his father Robert Barr and mother Marilyn (Williams) Barr of Daytona Beach Shores, FL and Palenville, NY.

Bob is survived by his beloved sons Robert of Titusville, FL and Gene (Jessica) of Gansevoort, NY; sisters Lynda (Dennis) White of Port Orange, FL and Patricia (Chester) Garrison of Palenville, NY; nephews Bryan (Leila) White, Justin (Kimberly) White, and Marc (Laura) Garrison; niece Shannon (Eric) Harris; grandchildren Addison, Bella and Corbin, who were his pride and joy; as well as many cousins and dear friends.

Though Bob's tools are now still and the doors to Bob's Garage have closed, the engines he started and the laughter he sparked will carry on in the hearts of all those who knew him.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, February 20 from 3-7 p.m. at Traver & McCurry Funeral Home, 234 Jefferson Heights, Catskill. Family and friends will gather at the funeral home on Saturday, February 21, service will begin at 11:30 a.m. Burial to follow in Palenville Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made in Robert's honor to Simpson Memorial Methodist Church, c/o Karen Ormerod, Treasurer, 7 Birchwood Park, Palenville, NY 12463 or TACT-Teaching the Autistic Community and Trades, 2960 S. Umatilla Street, Englewood, CO 80110, an organization that supports the training of future mechanics on the autism spectrum. It is our hope that his passion for the trade will continue to change lives.

Messages of condolence may be made to TraverMc.com.

Funeral arrangements are under the care of Breanna Lennon DelVecchio of Traver & McCurry Funeral Home, Catskill.