EAST FISHKILL – Robert Fatigate, 87, died peacefully on July 3, 2024, at his daughter's home, the home he built for his family over fifty years ago.

Born on April 20, 1937, in the Bronx, he was the son of Italian immigrants Santo and Theresa (Lanzano) Fatigate. Robert proudly served in the artillery unit of the Army National Guard and was discharged under the rank of staff sergeant. Robert was headstrong and had a robust work ethic, leading him to work from a young age to support his family. Along with his twin brother, Richard, he was the first in his family to graduate from high school. Over his career, he was employed as an electrician with ConEdison, a supervisor at Stewart International Airport, and later retired as an electrician with Metropolitan Transportation Authority.

Robert was a parishioner of St. Columba Church. A lifelong fan of the New York Yankees, he enjoyed playing softball, racquetball, and cooking. More than anything, he loved spending time with his family.

A proud first-generation Italian American, Robert was a patriot at heart and loved his country. He was an avid lover of American history. He was also a skilled handyman with remarkable ingenuity, and used his trade expertise to graciously help his family complete many improvement projects in their homes. Robert was knowledgeable, compassionate, and always there for his loved ones. He was a tremendously strong person, both in character and in spirit.

On August 6, 1961, in the Bronx, Robert married the love of his life, Rosalind Paciullo. They shared a loving marriage for twenty-eight years. During Rosalind's illness, he lovingly cared for her for six years until her passing on April 29, 1990. He is survived by his son, Frank Fatigate, his daughter, Annie Leito, and her husband, Peter. He is also survived by his grandchildren, who lovingly knew him as "Poppy": Frankie Fatigate, JoAnna Smith and her husband Alex, Spencer Sanseverino, Roberto Leito and Ana Leito; his great-granddaughters, Lillian Smith and Emma Smith. Robert is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his siblings, Frank, Ralph, Mike, Anthony, James, Theresa, Mary, Jenny, and his twin Richard, and his in-laws, Robert and Anna Paciullo.

Robert was so loved by his family and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Rest in peace, "Poppy." We love you always and forever.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Tuesday, July 9, at 12:30pm at St. Columba Church, 835 Route 82, Hopewell Junction. Entombment will follow in the Community Mausoleum at Poughkeepsie Rural Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family will be placing a park bench on the Dutchess County Rail Trail in Robert's name. Additional information on donating to this project will be available shortly.