Obituary of Robert Joseph Laufenberg

Robert Joseph Laufenberg passed away peacefully at home on February 11, 2026, with his adoring wife by his side. For 63 remarkable years, Rob was loved by many, for his easy going nature and ability to light-up any room he entered. He easily made friends, cherished relationships, found joy and lived life to its fullest; creating unforgettable memories with his family and friends.

Robert was the beloved son of the late Walter and Edna Laufenberg. One of four children, he was born and raised on the water in the Indian Lake section of Denville, where he began his lifelong love of fishing, boating, ice hockey, and hunting. A graduate of Morris Knolls High School, Class of 1980, he went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Wildlife and Fisheries Science from Penn State University. Rob built a respected career as an Environmental Engineer with Cornerstone, later Hydro-Qual, in Middletown, NY. A dedicated and hardworking professional, he worked for many years committed to environmental restoration.

Rob loved life, and was also an unrelenting fighter. He explored every possible avenue in his 16 year battle against cancer, meeting each challenge with strength, grace, and unwavering optimism. Despite his illness, he carried love in his heart and joy in his spirit, generously sharing both with everyone around him. His attitude was nothing short of inspiring—he was an easy role model, and it was nearly impossible not to feel happy in his presence.

On September 5, 2021, he married his best friend and soulmate, Kelly Hunter, after 12 wonderful years together. Rob was widely intelligent, endlessly kind, and known for his warm sense of humor. He was an incredible husband, father, brother, uncle, in-law, and friend.

A lifelong outdoorsman, Rob had been fishing since childhood and was a 2 time state champion and national representative bass fisherman and proud member of the Bass Federation. He took great pride in the sport he loved so deeply. He was also an avid hunter and enjoyed playing ice hockey. Whatever he pursued, he did so with passion and commitment.

Robert leaves behind his beloved wife, Kelly; his adored son, Alex Neutts; his caring siblings, Walter (Nancy), Jay (Monica), and Mark, brother-in-law Brian (Sara), and sister-in-law Debbie; his loving nieces and nephews, Kate (Zach), Ryan, Brendan, and Megan; and many extended family members and dear friends who will continue his legacy of love, strength, and joy.

Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate Rob's life on Monday, February 16th, from 4:00—8:00 p.m. at Norman Dean Home for Services, 16 Righter Avenue, Denville. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, February 17th at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary's Church, 15 Myers Avenue, Denville.

Memorial donations may be made in Rob’s memory to an organization close to his heart, Department for Persons with Disabilities through Catholic Charities by clicking here. To honor Rob in another way, please consider leaving a condolence, sharing a gesture, or posting a favorite photograph or memory for his family at normandean.com. These tributes will be treasured forever.

*If you were unable to attend Mass, you can watch it anytime through the St. Mary's YouTube page, or by clicking here*