Robert A. "Bob" DeCosta, 71, passed away peacefully at home on December 16, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Bob was the beloved husband of Jill Dolyak DeCosta for over 25 years.

He was the cherished son of the late Roy and Mary (Pacheco) DeCosta and a devoted stepfather to Allison Balsley (Nathaniel) and Monica Bradley. Bob was a proud step grandfather to Kamden, Saber, Baxley, Ryland, Akseli, and Genevieve, and a loving brother to Roy, Joseph, James, John, and Daniel. He also leaves behind many adored nieces and nephews as well as his beloved dog, Zena.

Bob was an alumnus of Rhode Island School for the Deaf and East Providence High School and continued his education at the Technical Vocational Institute in St. Paul, MN. He was a three-time Deaf Olympian, excelling in hammer throwing and holding numerous records.

Bob had a passion for woodworking, often fixing and building projects around the house, and loved his Honda motorcycle and trusty truck. He worked as a CNC machinist at Taco & Solutions for many years before retiring, and he truly relished his side job at Gillette Stadium as a net puller for Patriots games and as a security presence for various events on the field.

Together with Jill, Bob explored the world, traveling extensively across the U.S., Europe, the islands, and even to Egypt. Tragically, Bob became a quadriplegic following a swimming accident in Aruba last February. Despite this profound challenge, he lived his final months surrounded by love.

A private family service to celebrate Bob's life will be held on Friday, December 20, 2024. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his honor to Deaflympics, supporting Deaf sports and athletes at 4001 Buckeystown Pike #92,Buckeystown, MD 21717.

Bob will be deeply missed and fondly remembered for his strength, kindness, adventurous spirit, and his unforgettable smile.