Robert "Bob" DeGaine

Robert “Bob” DeGaine Jr., 71, of Salamanca, NY passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family and friends on Sunday, November 26, 2023 following a lingering illness.

Born September 4, 1952 in Salamanca, NY, he was the son of the late Robert Sr. and Bertha Frost DeGaine. He was married on September 2, 1972 in the former Holy Cross Church to the former Sally Caruso, who survives. During their 51 years, they created a family he was proud of.

He was a graduate of Salamanca High School, Class of 1970.

After graduation, he helped his dad run the family business, “Red & White Store” on Highland Ave. Upon closing, he worked for the cable company. His final career was with he Salamanca Fire Department where he retired as Chief, culminating a 34 year career. During the tenure, he made an impact on many lives.

Bob loved the outdoors; fishing and hunting were his passion. He lived for his travels to Wyoming and Montana, and his favorite, Air Ivanhoe in Canada. Amazing memories were made at Rice Lake and with the Theirults. Some of his favorite hunting partners were Billy Skoken, the Three Amigos, Gus, Ray, and Marty, and his beloved dogs, Raven, Freedom, and Spader.

Surviving besides his wife are: his children, Robert (Jessica) DeGaine III, MD and Stacy (Bret) Schmidt, WI; five grandchildren, JJ, Isabella, and Oliver DeGaine and Nixon and Wyatt Scmidt; a brother, James (Patti) DeGaine, Rock Hill, SC; an uncle, Dominic Rapacioli; several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was predeceased by two sisters, Yvonne DeGaine and Marcia “Marcy” DeGaine and several aunts and uncles.

There will be no visitation.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Holy Cross Club, 35 Clinton Street, Salamanca, NY 14779 on Saturday, April 6, 2024 from 1 – 4pm.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the O’Rourke & O’Rourke Inc Funeral Home, 25 River Street, Salamanca, NY.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to the Salamanca Fire Department, 225 Wildwood Ave, Salamanca, NY 14779 or the Square Circle Club, PO Box 244, Kill Buck, NY 14748.

The family would like to thank caregiver Richard Taylor, PT Greg, OC Laurie, and Aide Kerrie.

E-condolences can be sent to orourke.orourkefh@gmail.com or posted to facebook.com/onofh.