Obituary of Robert Morina

Robert Morina
Maybrook, NY

Robert Morina, an extraordinary man, passed away peacefully November 7, 2021 after a prolonged illness.  He was second of seven children born to Edythe and Laurence Morina. Bob started life by being suspended  from school for wearing a Mohegan haircut.  He promptly enlisted in the Marines and was among the contingent of soldiers in boats circling Cuba during the crisis.  Afterwards he floundered until he found his love of carpentry becoming a master craftsman.   In 1965 Bob eloped with Grace Riccaldo and together they started their life in a house Bob built on 10 acres in Shawangunk.  There Bob enjoyed fishing in the pond, target shooting, hunting, and mowing the fields.  He is riding his horse Shane among the clouds with his dogs Nina and Remington alongside. Grace encouraged Bob to complete his GED which started years of study culminating in his receiving a B.S. degree summa cum laude from the University of Oswego. Bob then started a 33 year teaching career of building construction/carpentry first at Orange County BOCES and finally at Dutchess Tech. Center.  Bob's energy and drive sparked him to build a second home on their 25 acres in the Catskills. He cut the trees himself and used the lumber to build....amazing!  It was a great place to retreat. Encouraged by his love of nature and adventure Bob took family and brothers in law on cross country camping trips to all the national parks.  He instilled this love to them and cherished their company.  Bob was a life member of the New Paltz Elks and Bethlehem Rod & Fish Club, RPEA,  NEA, NYSUT Bldg.Rep.,  Weblo Leader, Little League coach and sharp shooter recipient at the West Point range.  He had a charismatic personality that drew people to him.  Bob would lend a helping hand always,  enjoyed playing a joke and light up a room with his fun loving nature. Bob was predeceased by his parents  and sister Sandra.  He is survived by his wife Grace, son Anthony, siblings Betty, Margie, Joyce, Larry and Jim as well as nieces and nephews.  Remember Bob with a smile and the joy he brought. Extend a helping hand.
Memorial contributions may be made to your local shelter or to Hospice of Orange & Sullivan Counties, 800 Stony Brook Ct., Newburgh, NY. 12550 who took care and comfort of Bob. Private burial entrusted to the William M. Gagan Funeral Home.  To leave an online condolence, please visit www.wmgaganfuneralhome.com.