Sharing our memories of a valued friend.
Our friend Bob
Warren Zevon – Keep Me In Your Heart For A While
Many of us have a great memory of Bob Winovich. From those of us who grew up with him in Chagrin Falls to those of us who witnessed the compassion that filled his heart for his children, we all hold special memories of our special friend.
Bob lived the life he wanted, filled with music, good cigars, and great music.
Please share your memories with us. They’ll be posted here for everyone to share in. As we all know, Bobby always loved a good story that brought a smile.
79 Responses to “Memories”
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Good Times with Bobby
It was around 7:30 in the morning, and Jack Subel and I were sitting inside the front window of a coffee shop on Hollywood Blvd. Jack’s cell phone rang with a call from Bobby. He instructed us to direct our gaze up to 5th floor of our hotel across the street.
In true LA rock star fashion, Bobby was shooting us a full moon from his hotel room window in the historic Roosevelt Hotel.
Last week, Bobby came over to help Barry work his computer. Barry was complaining that the mouse wasn’t working properly. Papa (Don Winovich) had put the dot on Barry’s head that serves as his mouse and drives his cursor. The mouse works best when centered on Barry’s forehead. Bobby took this picture for Barry to show him what was causing the trouble. A classic Bobby-Barry-Don moment. Bobby called laughing because he loved to share these moments with Barry.
That was FREAKING hilarious. At first I wasn’t sure if it was his head or his behind.
On Monday I was looking thru Bob’s things. On the top of a stack of files in the middle of Bob’s office desk, I found a single torn out 3″ x 3″ calendar page that read:
“Do not pass up an opportunity to tell someone you LOVE them”. I wont forget that anytime soon.
Thanks for the memories Bob, Brian
Our family moved to Chagrin Falls almost the same week as the Winovich family. Bobby became a regular at our house and he would pick up Mark for school in the VW that had no floor boards. He always made my day better with his huge smile and daily hug. He loved his parents and brothers and sister so much. To him, family was everything. There was something so special in that great heart, smile and blue eyes. His soul always shone out from inside and left you feeling so great. He will be with us all forever in spirit. Julie Bradley
I did not know Bob well, only through a few friends and family, and was deeply saddened by the news. I will say after looking at the pictures posted and the comments that friends and loved ones had written, I can say for sure that he was a man I would have liked to have had the privilege to call my friend.
Bobby loved to take pictures with his cell phone of the inane and bizarre things he might notice. Often they were things that others might not notice or find interesting. There was always a story with Bobby’s own funny account of where the picture was from.
Last Saturday on our way down to Hilton Head we stopped for gas in the out-back of SC. On the ground where you walked in were some examples of local art. You could buy a “2 foot metal pipe pig” for $100. One of them was smoking a cigar. I took a picture and told Bobby I bought it for his front porch. We exchanged several funny texts arguing about whether it was a pipe or a cigar. I will really miss his random, funny text messages … always with a big smile at the end. That was Bobby … always a big smile.
I remember being sick with the flu for a week in high school and Bob drove over to deliver some of his mom’s amazing homemade chicken noodle soup. I was in disbelief at the time as I was struck his generosity and earnest desire to see me get better. What kind of high school kid, in a time in our lives dominated by insecurity and self preoccupation, thinks to reach out to another? He made a huge impact on me that day that I have never forgotten. And I see from the website that Bob did more caring and giving in his relatively short life than most of will ever accopmlish even if we live twice as long. I consider myslef extremely fortunate to have crossed paths in life with such a special person. Thank you Bob for enriching my life!
Growing up next door to the wino’s I have many memories but the ones that include bobby specifically are: the terrible towel that hung out his window, invitations to be his guinea pig for new wrestling moves in his basement followed by sending me home a beaten child, the writing on the bus incident, ,etc. etc. etc. As an adult I reconnected with Wino because our kids are the exact same age…he loved his family and he was the ultimate free spirit. He touched many kids and adults in this community and will surely be missed by all!
Bobby was always Mr. Happy go Lucky in high school. I can still vividly remember him dressed up as a cheerleader for our Junior/ Senior football game cheering our sorry team on. Getting arrested for stealing pumpkins and sitting in the solon police dept together was another memorable moment. He was a genuine friend and classmate. It was such a great honor to know such a wonderful person. You will surely be missed!
I won a trip to Ft.Lauderdale back in 2007. My wife couldn’t go so needless to say Bobby was more than happy to go in her place. Tommy Vinci named it Brokeback Mountain and teased us everyday about going together.When we checked in they made a mistake and gave us a giant suite with a deck that over looked the pool and ocean, couldn’t have been any better. One problem, there was only one bed. If I had a camera that cought his expresion… needless to say he slept on the couch the whole time. I will alway’s have that memory and the great time we had on that trip!
There is a certain expression in the faces of the Winovich family that you cannot ignore. A contagious, fun attitude that is such a wonderful reminder to embrace life, be grateful and have a loving spirit no matter what. And of course there is the music. It is transforming and no family recognizes that more than yours. You are on our minds and in our hearts. We pray for peace and are sending prayers to you.
I just remember a guy moving to Cleveland and in his first few days wearing a “One For the Thumb” t-shirt to school…
I guess that was an early indicator of what kind of guy Bob would become – Believing in what he wanted to and being proud of it.
To all the Winovich family I just would like to say that I, and I believe the rest of the world, are much better people for having the gift of Bob’s contribution to our lives.
Bobby was such a warm, friendly person. His whole family is wonderful. I remember talking to him in May telling me how much he loves his children. I got one of those big bear hugs from him…I loved those.
RIP Bobby…you are loved by so many people~
I’ll always think of him as a warrior for a cause. The look in his eye when he was serious about something. I’m glad he channeled all of that energy for good. Will certainly miss the smiling face and “Hellooo, Charlie!” greetings. Dianne remembered how we were rehabbing our century home and Bob would just pop in with the kids to say hello and see how things were going. Know he loved his kiddos and my thoughts will be with them and the whole family. You did good, Don and Helen. It was no accident everyone holds your family in such high esteem. Please find time to smile. Love, Treg
In the fall of 2007 Bob sent an email to a few of us … The email had the below picture and text.
As we grow up, we learn that even the one person that wasn’t supposed to ever let you down probably will. You will have your heart broken probably more than once and it’s harder every time. You’ll break hearts too, so remember how it felt when yours was broken. You’ll fight with your best friend. You’ll cry because time is passing too fast, and you’ll eventually lose someone you love. So take too many pictures, laugh too much, and love like you’ve never been hurt because every sixty seconds you spend upset is a minute of happiness you’ll never get back.
Don’t be afraid that your life will end, be afraid that it will never begin.
I remeber a few years ago riding the L in Chicago on our way into the city where our group was gathering to do some BSOTR fundraising. A very strange and sad looking man struck up conversation and Bobby humored the man with a warm smile and a bright flash of eyes. Later I said I think you made his day and he said, Hey, Love Ever Hurt Never-House of Blues philosphy. I loved that then and I think maybe a year later I thought of that event and wrote that line as a banner on my phone. Made sure to show it to my kids. Monday night it was really cool to pull out that little banner that I’ve kept for years and show it to Barry too.
As an 8th grader, the Class of 1986 wrestlers were Gods to me. Speed, Campbell, Williams, Fitzpatrick…and Winovich. Gabe, Dez and I would take the bus to high school to work out in the back gym with the guys above. Every one of them became big brothers to me. They kicked the crap out of me every day in the room and I became a better man for it.
Four years later, Bob returned to Chagrin to coach us during our Senior year with Wem. Danica was our team manager so it was a Wino-palooza. Don and Helen quickly adopted all of us and joined our parents at many meets.
Since Fow, Dez, Gabe and I were often wrestling at the same time, Bob was often in my corner for my matches. He taught me a lot that year. How to set goals and work hard to achieve them. How to win. And perhaps most importantly, how to balance approaching life with tenacity yet never taking it all too seriously.
Thanks Bob. I know you’ll always be in my corner.
Bobby’s smile was one in a million, and it was the window to his exceptional and wonderful personality. Wino was more than a teammate or friend; he was a catalyst that brought out the best in people (and also made it a ton of fun along the way). His indelible mark on so many will provide comfort, even joy, over the years to come as Bobby’s spirit lives on and on beyond his physical presence.
I can’t adequately write my admiration of the Winovich family. From Wug’s wonderful pancakes, chow downs, and the constant “controlled chaos” I experienced at the Winovich house growing up, to the way you’ve always found the bright side to conquer so many challenges. Your strength is beyond description. Bobby was truly blessed to have you as his family and he shared that blessing with so many. Don, Helen, Barry, Brian and Danica, please accept my family’s sincere sympathy.
I had the amazing opportunity to meet Bobby the first day of 7th grade! I couldn’t understand why all the girls were fighting over him and then…… he SMILED….. Lets just say it was all over from there. I remember crying for days when we found out he was leaving Pittsburgh. My parents felt so bad they helped me plan a huge going away party at Carnegie Park. Seriously the entire class showed up!!!! That summer I walked to Edgecliff over and over and over. And it was all uphill and a very big hill. Bobby was one of a kind…a sweet and gentle soul. I saw Bobby one more time 2 years later and his smile was unchanged. I will cherish the memories i have and pray for his family. I was better, NO the world was better for knowing Bobby.
What is it that we remember when we think of Bobby (aka Wino)? I think everyone will agree with me…it was his smile and his sense of humor.
Bobby strolled into our lives 30 years ago in the halls Chagrin Falls Middle School (the heart of Browns country) wearing a Steelers shirt to the first day of school. Oh no, here comes trouble! And so the memories began…
When I heard the news a few days ago, I couldn’t believe that the friend I knew who was so full of life was gone. My heart goes out to the entire Wino family.
Bobby will forever be missed and in our memories forever.
Bob was a great dad. He would always stop by and watch his kids in my class. Supportive, friendly, always smiling- that’s the Bob I knew. Great Guy!
Thank you Bobby for opening your circle to include me. For introducing me to the real way to listen to music, for the hugs, for countless beers, for sharing your family with ours. Never a shortage of “I love you’s ” or patience waiting for me to say it back. You are salt and light for everyone’s world. I’ll never share my food with anyone in restaurant again…as a tribute
Your mark is indelible.
I got to know Bob during the two years we were assistant coaches for Ben’s travel soccer team. Bob was simply a “good guy” in the truest sense. He cared for the boys, kept the team motivated, made things fun, and was great to be around. I can picture Bob standing on the sideline yelling “clean house!” to a defender… Bob was a great guy and I’ll miss him.
I met Bob on the first day of high school when I was the nervous new kid on the block. I remember a big warm welcome from the other “BW” in homeroom, and he broke the ice with a hug and a story about how he got the scar under his eye….from playing frisbee with the lid of a coffee can! I thought “this guy’s crazy – I like him!” We shared a lot of good times through the years, from wrestling seasons (I was the team manager)to the college years when he transferred in late to John Carroll – then it was my turn to welcome him in! My roomates we ga-ga over the new charismatic blue-eyed hunk who acted like a big brother to me! Our friendship continued when he wed my childhood friend Annie. The depth of his goodness was revealed to me duing these years. My younger sister passed away tragically in 1998, leaving the family to care for her critically premature son. Bob and Annie so selflessly took their own experience with Hannah and came to my side during those difficult days. His compassion and positive attitude in the face of such heavy times strengthened me. In more recent years he was introduced to my middle child whom we had just adopted from Korea. It took him about a minute to connect with her and discover that they shared the same bithday. Bob, each Aug. 2 I’ll have an extra piece of cake for you! My heartfelt condolences go out to the whole family. RIP dear old friend.
Bobby and the BSOTR crew were kind enough to ask us to play in Chicago a couple years back. K and I worked up what we thought was a pretty good list for an hour or so. After we finished, Bobby was very complementary, and said “you guys should take a swing at Melissa”. We had actually just played it. Maybe Bob was in the bathroom, or maybe we just didn’t play it very well, but it has been our inside joke ever since. “Let’s take a swing at Melissa!”
I’ve know Bob for quite a while now since his best friend, Mike Boehringer married my sister Julie in 1993. I’ve always had a great connection with Bob since he had a passion for music. At every family event when Bob was there we’d talk about all the bands we dug (i.e. The Band, The Dead, Marley, Walkin’ Cane etc…) He was very supportive of my band the Jack Fords and would always come to see us at the Greenville and even got us to play the Bright Side of the Road Benefit at the HOB in 2008. Bob was such a positive and uplifting soul, I always had a smile on my face after every conversation. Bob was one of those rare people that seemed to enjoy life no matter what. My heart and prayers go out to his entire family. See you on the other side my friend until then you will be missed.
-Bobby
Ubiquitous adj. – Being or seeming to be everywhere at the same time. also see “Bob Winovich”
That’s how I think of Bob. On the fields at Gurney, in the aisle a the grocery store, at a concert, at the bar, sitting next to me in 8th grade Shop class, it goes on and on. You’ve got to be living in a cave to not know Bob Winovich.
I remember when he first came to CF middle school. The guy just strolls in, free and easy, no big deal, like a completely open book. Easily setting the world record for quickest 8th grade acclimation.
Bob’s a once in a lifetime kind of guy. There lots of little holes all over CF where Bob should be. I will miss him.
Bob was a remarkable person in that he was kind and friendly to all people. Nearly everyone points out the great smile he had – for me, the remarkable thing is that he shared that smile with everyone, regardless of how much he knew you or may have considered you a friend.
I was fortunate to experience that “happy respectfulness” last year when I saw him at my brother’s wedding. It was a brief 5-minute chat, and in that time I felt he truly listened to my brief update about my life of the past 20 years.
To family and friends, for whom Bob was a close part of your lives, I wish you well during this time of grief. He was a dear friend, family member, and father. I truly hope that as time passes Bob’s spirit and love will temper the feelings of loss. He was, and will always remain, a good man.
After I hung up the phone with Brian yesterday, he asked me to call my brother & tell him that I love him, which I did.
It reminded me of a story my bro told me a few years back. On a visit home he was sitting in Dinks & Bobby came by, bs’d for a while and moved on. When it was time to go the server told my brother that Bobby picked up the tab of course without mentioning it to my brother at the time.
That was one of the things I really liked & admired about Bobby; An easy smile & the way he seemed to know that little things really do mean alot.
Darren Wyville
Bobby walked through life seeing the world through the eyes of his friends.
I remember so many emails and conversations originating from Bob about things that many people could care less about. Links to comic book news on the web, mentions of odd movies, shopping recommendations on everything from “Bobby Craig t-shirts” to Wonder Woman watches. My peculiar interests truly mattered to him.
Bobby’s gift was not seeing the world only through his eyes; he experienced the richness of it through the eyes of everyone who loved him.
Almost daily I would see Bobby somewhere around town, and everytime he’d wave and smile…that’s the vision I have and it will always remain. Also, he is one of the few great “Bobs” I know that can still get away with being called “Bobby”, at 41 years old. My hat goes off to you.
My thoughts & prayers go out to everyone who knew him.
Stop for a moment, concentrate, use your imagination. Can you see him smiling, laughing? I can!!! I can see him as all of us have. These are his expressions. They define him as a son, father, brother, and friend. I have so many wonderful memories about him and all of our friends. He just had a warm way about him that made you feel good. Stay strong Wino’s. He is loved by so many. Hey Bobby – long may you run:)
T Vinci
From the day I met Bobby swimming in the Chagrin River with McElhinny the summer of our 7th grade year to the countless hours I spent with him on the football field and in the wrestling room – one thing has always been true, he brought joy to those around him. Bobby’s love of life and willingness to give of himself made our world a brighter place. How lucky we all have been to have Bobby touch our lives, and how blessed I am that he was my friend.
Bobby,
I am not good with words so I will use Bobby and Jerry’s. I will miss you dearly my friend.
“Long as we got to be
Long as we are
I just want to be
One of them Little Stars
One of them little stars
That’d just be fine
All you gotta do now
Just hang up there and shine
Hang up there and Shine
Hang up there and Shine
— “Little Star” by Bob Weir
Lay down my dear brother, lay down and take your rest
Lay your head upon your Saviors Breast
We loved you, oh but Jesus loves you the best
And I bid you good night, good night, good night.
— “We bid you good night” – The Grateful Dead
Tewks
Oh my Bobby-0, I will miss him so! Bobby and I shared the love of the song Peggy-O. He was Bobby-O and I was Jilly Row (from the song Row Jimmy). I sure will miss his free spirit, big hugs, blue eyes and big smiles. Goodbyes are always so hard. As the words from Peggy-O say “Bid a last farewell to your Bobby-O”. To the Wino family, I send my love and prayers for your strength to get through this oh so difficult time. I love you all! Fare thee well!
All my memories of Bob go back to high school. And they are some great memories. He and I were stretching partners on the football team and I always loved his carefree attitude. He never took things too seriously that did not need to be taken too seriously. That was a gift. Though I did not wrestle, some of my greatest memories of Bob are from him wrestling. He, among other of my friends, wrestled and so I saw many of the matches. I remember on more than one occasion Bob would be getting beat pretty badly in a match and then all of a sudden he would make his move and pin the guy. He would be so excited and the other guy so disappointed. But that was Bob, doing the unexpected. Looking down and out and coming up with something amazing. I will always remember him fondly and our times in high school together. I pray that the Lord will comfort the Winovich family and all of those who are mourning his loss.
My experiences with Bob revolved around soccer and our sons. I had several conversations with him recently about the passion and effort Ben displays on the field. Bob’s pride and love of his son was palpable while we spoke.
The parents of the soccer boys will miss Bob on the sidelines. He brought a quick sense of humor along with his ever present smile. Mimicking Coach Lisa he always asked “Can we win this?”. I, for one, will always think of Bob when I hear her ask that question in the future. Of course, we can win this(whatever this may be), but it will be a lot less fun without Bob.
It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that I hear of the passing of Bobby. A good friend growing up we had many great memories before he moved from Pittsburgh to Chagrin Falls. We kept in touch over the years (not as much as we should have) and each time we chatted it was like we stay connected and never lost touch. Bobby had this great ability to make you feel like time had not passed since you last spoke and valued your friendship. He is one of those people you are proud to call a friend. He was a great person and a great Steeler fan and I was glad to see him and Brian at a game last year. He will be missed, but his positive impact on people’s lives is a great gift that he has given us all. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and all that were blessed to know a very special person.
happy and safe travels bobby you will be missed forever by so many for a long time, you and your family are one of a kind
There aren’t enough words or spaces on this website to describe what Bobby means to me and our children. I have loved him since I was 16 years old. We have grown up together, created three beautiful children together, and as we sit here and paste together pictures and memories of our lives together for everyone to view in the next few days, I can’t just choose one story or memory because there are so so many. Bobby loved his children more than anything. He was always available when someone needed help. He had a kind, gentle, and loving heart. We had many wonderful years together, and even as things change in peoples lives, Bobby will always be the love of my life. He will be so terribly missed by Hope , Ben, and myself. We love you Bobby. Forever. xoxoxoxo
My first memory of Bobby, like many of his Class of ’86 Chagrin Falls friends, was him showing up to CFMS wearing a Pittsburgh Steeler shirt. As a Clevelander, I remember thinking this guy must be crazy. We had a lot of fun times through high school and I always admired his passion for the Steelers. My last memory of Bobby was a run in with him at the Chagrin Falls High School football game last October when I was visting Chagrin. We caught up on kids and other items after a long time between seeing each other. I always made it a point to ask him how business was going so I coould hear his consistent, predictable response. Bob would stand with a gleam in his eye and that wide smile and tell me… “Striking.” That word has, and always will remind me of Bobby and the wonderful person he was. He was indeed striking to those who knew him… full of energy with an enviable zest for life and love. I appreciated that he always made me and my wife Katy feel welcome when we visited town depsite the time and distance that has passed. I will miss him and wish all of the Winovich family my deepest condolences and sympathy.
I’m not sure where to begin but really I can’t understand why it had to end. There are so many unturned stones, so many more laughs, so many more tunes but now so many tears. The sadness is deep yet the memory of a smile that always filled the room will never be forgotten. For someone who never wanted anything in return thanks for all the good times. Love you bro!
As our son Max got to know Ben, it was pretty hard not to instantly take to getting to know and love Bobby and Annie. Bob shined on the lacrosse field, so incredibly proud of his son!! He and I would carpool the boys back and forth to some after school activities, cracking up on how many times the boys talked us into to stopping at Dunkin Donuts. He was so good to only let the boys only get 2 donuts each…I did sometimes let them have three, sorry Bob! He had a contagious smile and positive comment whenever you needed it, and a bit of humor when you really needed it! He will be missed by so many. Our family will miss him greatly.
I first met Bobby when I was in seventh grade and attending wrestling camp. At the time I thought he was one of the funniest and craziest guys I ever met. He turned me on to The Who after which I became a gigantic fan. After that every time I saw Bobby he always brought a smile to my face and always had me laughing. Rest is peace my friend. My prayers are with you and your family.
To all who loved Bob:
I don’t remember specifics(too long ago), but my son Scott truly loved Wino, as we all did. I was so lucky that I knew Bob and he was a wonderful friend to Scott. I will never forget the Best Men wedding toasts………..must have been the shoes………………………………………..RIP
Hello to everyone, and pls allow me to express my condolences to the Winovich family and all the friends and colleagues who knew and loved Bob.
I remember Bob’s great sense of humor to this day. I wasn’t around Ohio much after graduation from CF, but every time I did made it back to Ohio from the far-flung places I’d been working/studying at, I’d often run into my old classmate & wrestling & freshman football teammate.
So, we’d dust off the old running joke:
ME: “Hey Bob, good to see you. How’s the lightning rod business?”
He looks over with a grin –
BOB: “Striking”
Anyway, I hope everyone finds grace and meaning in this challenging time. Take Care and All the Best, JR
Annie, Hope, Ben and the entire Winovich family, thank you for sharing such a wonderful man with all of us.
You’ll be greatly missed brother Bob.
May the four winds blow you safely home.
Success. It’s so easy and tempting for us to define success by the number of toys we have, our titles, or the size of our companies. But success is really measured by a lasting satisfaction in our heart, and the lasting legacy that we effectively pass to the next generation and those we leave behind. It’s not measured only by our deeds, but also the SPIRIT and HEART that we put into them. Bobby understood and lived this way almost as though someone whispered this to him the moment he was born. In fact, two people whispered this to him…Helen and Don live this way and have done an incredible job of passing this legacy to all of their children. Bobby…what an incredibly successful life you lived! Your energy is palpable and will remain so. I am in awe of the way you embraced the privilege and opportunity that life provides at every moment. Success! A life well lived! Well done Bobby…Well done Helen and Don. I am grateful for your gift.
Over the course of the last few years I had the great pleasure of being able to spend time with Bobby.. He was an amazing guy. I continued to be impressed with his ability to see the GOOD in every situation…Even during the most difficult of times, Bobby always wanted to do the RIGHT THING.. He loved Hope and Ben so very much. They were the most important thing in the world to him…he lived his life for them. Bobby, know that I am here for Hope and Ben always.. I will miss you.
I will never forget the day that Bobby W. from Chagrin Falls, Ohio, met Bobby W. from Menlo Park, California… especially today, as I am only a few miles up the road from Menlo…
Bobby Wino, Itamar, and myself were in Pittsburgh, where Bobby and I could share a few of our loves: the music of the Grateful Dead and the Allman Brothers, talking about Pittsburgh sports and how much better of a sports city it is than Cleveland…..and maybe a Primanti Bros. sandwich if we were lucky.
We were on a mission to get autographs for the BSOTR guitar auction. After jumping through a few hurdles, Bob Weir’s handlers and the Allman’s tour manager gave us the green light..backstage passes, upgraded seats in row 3.. dead center. They were thrilled to do whatever they could to help, and beyond. The exact same spirit that Bobby Winovich exemplified and inspired.
It felt like Christmas Eve as we walked around backstage and waited to meet the bands. All I could think of was how excited Bobby Wino was. I was so happy for him. The pic of Weir signing the guitar is priceless…as the smile Wino was wearing, the same one i will always see when I think of Bobby from Chagrin.
That smile was the first thing I thought of when informed of his passing. Then I thought of the wonderful Winovich family. And then, I thought of how much I will miss that smile.. how much we all will.
Thank you Bobby W. from Chagrin Falls, Ohio! Thank you for letting your lovelight shine, shine on me. And thank you to the whole Wino family… the apple never falls far from the tree.
Lotsa love to all via San Fran via Telluride to the 44022..
-Jamie
Anne, Hope and Ben and the Winovich family:
I am so saddend and sorry for your loss, Bobby was incredibly kind to me and my family and we are thankful for the opportunity to have been a part of his life. Anne I am here for you whenever you need me-when I think of Bobby I will always remember to smile, as his was infectious.
Dearest Annie and kids,
What can I say, a terrible loss. I hope he is listening to some good tunes and having a few brews with friends in heaven. He has a piece of sunshine with Hannah in heaven and on earth he will always be remembered for his love and laughter with his family especially Hope and Ben. My heart goes out to you all and we have great memories. I recall our wedding that he and Steve L. sat in those heart shaped chairs and took a pic, Bobby had such a devilish grin on his face. Not to mention outdoor concerts and tailgates were so fun with him.
All our love to you and the kids.
I had the pleasure of getting to know Bob when I started coaching the U9 Chagrin Boys Travel soccer team three years ago. Bob was one of the team’s assistant coaches. I loved the passion, enthusiasm and energy that he brought to the field, it was contagious. I also loved how much he cared about people. I will always remember getting to the field for training and Bob would always make it a point to ask how my day was going or what’s new in my life.
He will be greatly missed by so many.
Don, Helen, Barry, Brian and Danica -
Our sincerest condolences for your loss. The Chagrin Falls community will forever be better for having been touched by Bobby Wino. When you think of how a person should live life to make a greater impact on their surroundings you think of Bobby. Thank you Bobby and Thank you Winos!
Until we meet again my friend.
I am deeply saddened,and stunned. How could someone with so much light be gone from this world? Bobby sat next to me in history class at CFHS. He used to lean over and doodle in my history book during Mr. Pai’s lectures. I wasn’t too sure about dating an “underclassman”, but one look at those blue eyes and megawatt smile, and I was gone!We dated for most of my time at CFHS, and the memories we shared were wonderful! He was the perfect highschool boyfriend, and I believe was put there in my life to help me get through a tough time making the transition from California to Ohio as a highschool sophomore. He always made me laugh, and helped me to not take things too seriously. He had a way of making me feel so special when we were together. He was, my first love. Over the years I have kept up with his life through my mom, and often thought I should contact him, but life of course gets in the way. His smile came to mind whenever I saw a Steelers tshirt, or heard a Bob Marley song. I recently finished a degree in Music Therapy, and have taken a job working with children with developmental disabilities, helping them achieve health related goals through the use of music. I was driving this morning to see a new client- a boy of two who is autistic, and I was thinking of Bobby and how I wish I could talk with him one more time, and how badly I felt that I could not make it home to pay my respects to the Winovich family- I parked the car and knocked on the door- the door opened and there stood a little boy in a Pittsburgh Steelers t-shirt!He had a huge smile on his face and said “Hello”. I think this was Bobby saying “it’s all gonna be alright”. I will miss you Bobby, and will remember your light and love of life- my thoughts are with you Winovich family. I will never forget him.
Annie, Hope and Ben
We are sadden for the loss of a good person. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
As I am sure so many of you know, the Winovich home was like a second home to all of the friends. Bobby (and Brian & Danica) were like younger siblings to me. There were periods where I am sure I spent more time at the Wino’s house than my own. Even though I have been gone from Chagrin for many years now, it still feels the exact same way when I am with the Wino’s. Warm, loving, welcome!
Bobby had a special balance of extraordinary passion and extraordinary compassion. A gift I will try my best to emulate. My wife and I were crushed as everyone with Barry’s ALS diagnosis. Bobby’s face was one of the first I saw at the Inaugural First Waltz. His big smile and pending huge hug made me feel like everything was going to be all right.
That smile is etched in my mind and I know everything is going to be all right.
My love to the Winovich family. You have done an awesome job.
Bob and some of his buddies were regulars at our shows (First Light), and would hang out with us. Bob would always ask if we needed help loading equipment at the end of the night, as was his generous nature. Eventually, he became the head of our road crew, being affectionately known as “Crowd Control”, for his ability to deal with overly enthusiastic or intoxicated fans. Bob was with us for several years and we regarded him as a member of our extended family. Always looking out for us, and always with a smile, Bob knew how to have fun, but took his job seriously. I’m glad to have known him. He is a shining example of what a good man should be and I know that all of the lives he has touched are all the better for it.
Bobby, we will truly miss you. The memories will always live with us. Our card club group was really an excuse to get together and have a great time bonding. We actually did manage to play cards at times. CAA wrestling & the Tiger Open. You were the steady force in helping to pull it off. You’re kind heart was always a joy to be around. Thanks you for the memories.
The CAA wrestling family.
The Renton family.
Until today I thought I really had nothing to contribute to this website because I did not have one outstanding story of being mooned by Bobby from above or hitting an errant golf shot with him that yielded some long winded story about the guy downrange.
Today I realized however that I am once again blessed by those around me and in this case it was that every single time I saw Bobby he was jovial, smiling, laughing, talking and just about the moment.
I have always believed that music is a gift that keeps on giving and this is certainly a passion that Bobby, Barry and I have shared. The music is in their souls and as Brian spoke today, we all share it.
I am thankful to the entire Winovich family for always having been warm to me and for always making me feel welcome. This is a family trait that Don and Helen can be most proud of in all of their children.
Each year, Barry, Bobby and Brian (in rotation at times) would join a group of guys at what we call the “Last Supper”. This photo is from the 19th annual. There is Bobby front and center and in the thick of it all. I think Don needs to join us next year!
God bless Bobby!
Doug
Bobby and I had a “bonding” moment last summer at Trifles Cafe for a Bright Side event. We were sitting across from each other at the table when out of nowhere I was “sprayed” in the face with water that came out of Bobby’s mouth as he spontaneously choked on who knows what! He of course felt so bad and the next day, he sent me an e-mail apology saying that we are now a part of the “Wachati Tribe” along with a link to you-tube featuring a clip from “Ace Ventura-meeting the chief” with Jim Carrey.It shows Jim being spit in the face by the chief as a sign of affection. Only Bobby would know to send me that particular clip. Watch it if you can. It is hilarious, just like Bobby!
This is in honor of Bobby.
A wonderful brother, friend, father, son, husband. Loved by all.
Bobby loved Bob Marley.
Today while I was working, Marley came on the radio. I put down my work, and went outside to create this for him.
Bobby, I hope your Jammin’ in the name of the Lord, my brother!
God Bless
The funeral service was amazingly beautiful. The music, lyrics, instruments, voices, Brian~ I couldn’t help but feel like I just left a concert…and THAT is what Bobby would want!
to the whole Winovich family, You did it right. The Mass and music and Eulogy (Brian) was so perfect. The church was filled with all of the friends and family who loved him so much. I hope their love and spirit carried you all through what had to be one of the hardest days of your lives. We will all be with all of you and with Ben and Hope and Annie as they deal with his absence. He filled so many lives with his enthusiasm and joy and will leave a huge hole in a lot of hearts. Don and Helen, you are vintage Pgh and the very salt of the earth. Love Julie Bradley
Bobby was a great wrestling coach to BOTH of our children. Because we videotaped many of the matches, we were able to see that Coach’s expression at the end of a victory was always the same – that giant of a man, arms thrown up straight in the air, celebrating a wrestling win. Kids remember that….they see their coach celebrating their hard-fought victory.
Thanks, Bobby…for being an excellent mentor and coach to our children – Dane and Lindsay will miss you. We’ll all miss your light.
(I think this pic does Bobby more justice than the somber, formal team pic.)
The Anderson’s
Craig, Ashleigh, Lindsay, Dane
So….
I thought it would be fitting to throw a rose or two over the Golden Gate Bridge, yesterday, since I couldn’t be present at Bobby’s funeral.
One was yellow. Pittsburgh Steeler yellow….er “gold”… he he…
The other was red, just like all of the iconographic roses featured prominently in the artwork of the Grateful Dead.
Both of them smelled divine.
Nothing left to do but smile, smile, smile when I think of Bobby.
More than words can tell,
JT
I just heard the news and am deeply saddened. I was fortunate to meet Bobby and the whole Winovich crew the day they moved in. We were inseperatable that summer. We referred to the Winos as the BBB boys! Bobby taught me Pittsburghese! Everyone here has mentioned his beautiful smile and his generous heart…that sums up Bobby! I never had the oppurtunity to meet his wife and children but I am praying for you now! Thinking of the entire Winovich clan during this difficult time. Love to all of you!
Megan
Every so often, Bobby would send me an email that simply said “Make this for me” with an attached link. One of the first emails he sent was for cheesecake stuffed chocolate covered strawberries. I made them for his 40th birthday birthday party and they’ve been a hit ever since.
A couple weeks ago, he sent another for Red Velvet Cake Balls. When I didn’t respond, he followed up a week later with “Jenny, I know you’re busy curing but how are those cake pops coming?”. I never made them but I will now.
He knew he could ask and I would. Just like I knew I could ask him and he would. It’s the beauty of friendship. Give to get.
I have way to many memories to just pick one or two. We shared many wondserful times. Given that music was one of his loves, I will simply list some of the times we shared. U2, Pink Floyd, Eric Clapton, The Who, Springsteen, Ziggy Marley and 10,000 Maniacs, CSNY, Tom Petty, Doobie Brothers, First Light, Oroboros, The Janglers. I am sure I have missed some, but these were some times with Bobby and other friends that I will always cherish.
RIP RNW — Scotto
To the entire Winovich family,
Words cannot even begin to express my sorrow for the sudden loss of Bobby. But I will do my best to bring some comfort with a few thoughts during this very difficult time.
The memorial service for Bobby was beautiful. His impact on hundreds of people was so evident. Many tears were shed and many lives will never quite be the same. We all loved him. And I sat there proud to be one of the many that called him a friend and was so fortunate to know him. He was such a special man. Whether it was making a big hit on the football field, enjoying some live music, or just sitting around over a beer, Bobby was a guy you just wanted to be around. He had a magical presence when he walked into a room. You wanted to be associated with him, enjoy his camaraderie and feel his tremendous energy.
I know everyone is so sad as we are all longing for one more day, one more word, one more touch, and we may not understand why he left this earth so soon before we were ready to say good-bye. But little by little, we will begin to remember not that Bobby has passed, but that he really lived and made our lives so much richer. His life gave us so many memories too wonderful to ever forget.
Finally, I truly admire the strength and love shown by the Winovich family. You are an incredible family and your love for each other is something all of us should emulate in our own lives. Please find comfort from those around you in the days ahead.
Each and every day, let’s all smile a little more in honor of Bobby.
With my deepest sympathy,
Craiger
Dear Annie,Hope,Ben and Winovich Family,
When I think of Bob, I picture a beautiful and blue-eyed man who was always smiling. His bright,sparkling eyes could change the mood of a room in an instant. I too remember Bob as the new kid arriving at school in a Steelers jersey…he was so assertive that day. How refreshing in middle school, a time in our lives of such change and uncertainty. Bob was a kind and gentle soul to everyone. Our world was blessed by his life, and his legacy will continue through his beautiful children. I write this today with such a heavy heart, but knowing that he is with Hannah in Heaven should provide much comfort to us all.
With Heartfelt Sympathy,
Kim
http://iLike.com/s/BSxgN
I feel blessed to have known Bobby in this lifetime. As it was said, we are all better for having known him, and it was obvious in the collective love that was shared and felt on Friday. As we all carry forward, we carry his Spirit with us every second. Rest well my friend, you live on in us.
Here Beside You
Now it looks as though your race is won
The next phase of your journey has begun
You’re sailing slowly towards the setting sun
And I’m right here beside you…
The love you planted here will grow on
In all of us your spirit will live on
You’ve done as well as anyone could do
And we’re all right here beside you…
Here beside you
Right here beside you
We’re all right here – always near
beside you…
Don’t be afraid to let go and trust
That you’ll still be watching over us
Just like you’ve done your whole life through
And it’s true, we’ll always be with you
We always will remember what you’ve taught
That love and happiness cannot be bought
To respect others as we’d have them do
And to always to our hearts be true
So now as you lay down to rest
Be assured that you have done your best
And as you go peacefully to the Light
Just know that we are gonna be alright
Peaceful slumber’s gentle reign
No more confusion, grief or pain
And as your home comes slowly into view
May the good Lord keep and walk with you.
I was fortunate to get to know Bobby over the last 5 years and I am a better person for it. I will remember Bobby for his warm smile and optimism. I am most appreciative that he gave me the gift of music appreciation which has impacted my life greatly. We miss you Bobby.
I will always remember what a great sense of humor Bobby had. He was always smiling and happy. I also remember how much Bobby liked his desserts. He loved this one particular cheese cake recipe that I made. He would often put in his request for various functions. For his 40th birthday present I gave him a coupon to redeem one of his favorite cheesecakes. The only stipulation was that it was before I was too big to move around (I was pregnant with twins). Time passed and I never got the request…..then when I was actually in labor I got a text from Bobby… (he knew we were having the babies that day) “I’ll take my cheesecake now”. We were all cracking up laughing.
I will miss him dearly. He was a great friend to our family…Ava will miss her Godfather but she will surely know all about him and the wonderful person he was.
First off, I would like to extend my heartfelt condolences to the entire Winovich family. It was with great sadness that I learned of our dear friend’s passing. That is what Bob was to everyone who came into contact with him, a dear friend. His warmth and smile were contagious. I knew on my infrequent visits home over the past decade that I would always come across Bobby…and his words and smile made it feel like I had never left. He set an example of what a father, son, brother and friend should be. I feel my life is that much richer by having him a part of it. We should all remember and live by his words and never be afraid to pass up an opportunity to tell someone that you love them. He will be missed.
Bob gave me a great piece of advice while we were coaching little kids soccer together, start practice late and end early.
No truer words were ever spoken
First, I am with heavy heart…Bobby was a wonderful person who made you feel good when he was around. I met him through the band and I feel I am one of the lucky people who got to interact with him even if it was for a short time…You will be surely missed!
Happy Birthday Bobby. You are truly 1 in 6 Billion. Watch over all of us that have been so fortunate to have been blessed to have been apart of your life. I will ALWAYS have your love and smile in my heart. I’ll meet with you again my friend. Scotto