Obituary of Robert James Scannelli

Robert “Bob” James Scannelli, 93, passed away peacefully at his home in Victory Gardens, New Jersey, on April 18, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born and raised in Orange, New Jersey, Bob was the son of James and Beatrice Scannelli. He graduated from East Orange High School in 1951. During his high school years, he joined the Naval Reserves and was later called to active duty during the Korean Conflict. Bob proudly served in the Pacific Fleet, spending time in Japan and Korea aboard the repair ship USS Hector (AR-7).

Following his honorable discharge, Bob returned home and began working in his father’s plumbing business. With determination and skill, he later established his own company, expanding from plumbing into full construction. He continued to build his business and reputation until his retirement in the 1990s.

Bob was deeply committed to his community and family. He served as both a Boy Scout and Girl Scout leader and was an active Mason, which led to his involvement as a leader in DeMolay and Rainbow Girls. A man of many talents, Bob also had a lifelong love of music and proudly played the trumpet in various bands. He was a dedicated board member of Mount Tabor United Methodist Church and a member of Denville Community Church.

In his retirement years, Bob found great joy in woodworking, puzzling, crafting many treasured items for his family and friends and enjoyed the company of his cats. Above all, he cherished his family and took great pride in supporting and caring for them.

Bob was predeceased by his beloved granddaughter, Julia Lynn Mayrowetz; his sister, Alice Scamporino; and his brothers, Ralph and Richard Scannelli.

He is survived by the love of his life and soulmate, his wife, Karen (Wood) Sattar Scannelli; his loving children, Cathy Scannelli, and Robert Scannelli Jr. and his wife Virginia; his cherished grandchildren, Andrea, Christina, Robert J. III, Shara, Amanda, Max, and Darren; and his stepdaughters, Sophie Geary and Roxanne Sattar-Mayrowetz and her husband Jerry. His love for his family was unwavering, and he was always there to lend a helping hand.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Norman Dean Home for Services, 16 Righter Avenue, Denville, NJ 07834, www.normandean.com. Funeral services will take place on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Denville United Methodist Church, 190 Diamond Spring Road, Denville, NJ 07834.  Memorial donations can be made in memory of Robert J. Scannelli to St. Jude Children's Reasearch Hospital stjude.org or to Market Street Mission marketstreet.org. 

Bob will be remembered for his kindness, dedication, and the lasting impact he made on everyone who knew him.