Obituary of Robert Michael Karas

     Robert “Bob” Karas, age 74, joined his parents in Heaven on February 7, 2024. His passing occurred with his loving family by his side. 

     Born on October 26, 1949, Robert was the son of the late Joseph and Frances Karas. He was a graduate of New Hartford High School and went on to further his education at Mohawk Valley Community College.

     He was a proud veteran, having served in the United States Army Reserve for six years, until his honorable discharge. 

     Bob was a successful entrepreneur who established his own business; a venture that allowed him to work alongside his son, Michael, for many years. This was a great source of pride and joy for him. 

      He was a humble and kind man who worked hard and loved his family. His favorite times were spent on his boat; cruising the lake with the company of family and friends. His earthly presence will be missed but his legacy will forever live on through those he leaves behind. 

      He is survived by the love of his life, Kathleen Poccia; his loving daughter, Klarissa Karas; his son and best friend, Michael Karas; his daughter-in-law, Tara (DeMatteo) Karas, whom he adored with all his heart; his brother, Frank Karas, whom he shared the deepest bond of brotherhood with; his sister-in-law, Wendy; his stepsons, Rich and Tony; and his daughter-in-law, Shauna.

      He also leaves his four grandchildren, Aurora, Alana, Evan and Kian; they were Bob's world. Every moment spent with them filled his heart with love and joy. 

       He is also survived by several nieces and nephews, Adrian, Susan, Joseph, and Lily Bartholomeo, John, Jenifer, Benjamin and Lincoln Bartholomeo, Peter, Christina, Connor and Lincoln Campbell, Frances and Elias Zeina and Francis Karas, II.

      Friends and relatives are invited to attend Bob's funeral service and Celebration of Life on Tuesday morning, February 13, 2024, at 11:30AM at St. Paul's Catholic Church, 16 Park Ave, Whitesboro, NY 13502, where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Fr. Tom Durant, Pastor. Interment will follow in Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Whitesboro. 

     In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions in Bob's name to the American Heart Association or to the American Cancer Society.

     Final arrangements have been entrusted to the Heintz Funeral Service, 1517 Whitesboro Street, Utica, NY (315) 797-5550.

     Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.heintzfuneralservice.net