03/18/2025
I know many of you who follow me enjoyed the time we shared with my father on the live-stream cooking videos.
I wrote an obituary for my father below. He was an amazing man, and words cannot describe how much I miss him, but I hope they keep his legacy alive.
Robert Arthur "Fic" Ficalora
1957 – 2024
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Robert Arthur Ficalora, lovingly known as Fic, who left this world at the age of 67 in Melbourne Beach after a courageous battle with Multiple Sclerosis.
Born in San Jose, CA, Robert’s early years were marked by adventure as he traveled the world with his family—father Peter, mother Mary Lou, brothers Joe and John, and sisters Mary and Judy—living in Uruguay, Milan, and London. His formative years were spent at the American School in London before the family returned to Connecticut, where he continued to grow into the remarkable person he became.
Robert attended Drew University in New Jersey, where he not only excelled as a star fly-half on the rugby team but also met the love of his life, Helen Schneiderman. Their love story was one of deep devotion, and together, they built a beautiful life.
His career began at IBM in Connecticut, but life’s journey took him to Olympia, WA, where he and Helen raised their two beloved sons, Marley and Lennon. Though diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in his early thirties, Robert never let the disease define him. His resilience, humor, and unwavering positivity were an inspiration to all who knew him.
Summers were spent in Montauk, NY, where Robert, alongside Helen and his brother-in-law Jay, ran The Breakers Motel. A passionate advocate for community and local politics, he founded Montauk Friends of Olmsted Parks (MFOP) to honor Montauk's unique history and preserve its sovereignty. His dedication extended beyond Montauk, as he later spearheaded efforts to protect and restore the Royal Poinciana Playhouse in Palm Beach, where he and Helen spent their winters.
Robert was a man of great spirit, always wearing a smile, no matter how difficult the road. His infectious optimism, boundless generosity, and deep love for his family will forever be remembered.
He is survived by his loving wife, Helen, his cherished sons, Lennon and Marley, and his adored grandchildren, Montauk, Sonny, Malibu, Manhattan, and Maeve. His legacy lives on through them and the many lives he touched along the way.
Robert’s life was one well-lived—a testament to love, perseverance, and the power of a positive outlook. Though he is gone, his light will never fade.
Rest easy, Fic. Your smile and spirit will live on in all of us.