Obituary

ROBERT FRANK RINELLA
May 18, 1967 to September 2, 2024
Passed away on the 20^th anniversary of his grandfather’s death – Grandpa Frank Rinella

Born on May 18, 1967, Robb was the oldest of four children born to Raymond and Patricia Rinella. Robb grew up in Seal Beach, CA and his parents still reside in his childhood home today. Robb was big brother to Scott, Brett and Jennifer.

While in grammar school, Robb attended St. Hedwig’s and was an altar server. He made the decision to transition to Los Alamitos High School, where several of his cousins also attended. It was a more difficult transition than he had expected and shared that he spent a great deal of time in the drafting room his first year. This explains his beautiful handwriting and artistic ability.

In 1985, when Robb was age 18, he left for college to attend Cal Poly, Pomona where he majored in Urban Regional Planning and met his wife, Donna. Robb was in the Sigma Chi Fraternity and Donna was a Zeta. They met in March of 1986 during “Derby Days”, where Robb claims he let her steal his Derby just so he could meet her. Robb remained close with several of his fraternity brothers at the time of his passing and enjoyed his annual trips with them.

Robb and Donna were married on September 8, 1990, at St. Edward’s Church in Dana Point. Robb and Donna are the proud parents of two wonderful sons, Nic and Jack, and have a loving daughter-in-law, Lenci, who is expecting their first grandchild in early December. Robb was over the moon about becoming a grandfather and wanted to be called “Pops”.

When he was 33, he decided to go to work for Caltrans after his longtime friend referred him in. Prior to Caltrans, he had been in the auction business for 10 years. It was a big change, and Robb went to work in the Survey Department. He preferred the early work schedule so he could be involved with the boys’ activities. He was part of the Caltrans family for 23 years prior to retiring during the summer of 2023.

Robb and Donna cared for Donna’s mom, Rosemary, for 5 years prior to her passing in November 2023. Rosemary was diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia and required constant care. Having her move in was Robb’s idea, and Donna and her family were very grateful. Following Rosemary’s passing, Robb and Donna began to travel again and spend more time with family and friends. They found great comfort in attending Mass at St. Kilian’s on Sundays.

Robb had a special gift of connecting with people, but preferred interacting with children and young adults. He was a big kid at heart. He was a Scout Leader and an Eagle Scout Advisor to many boys during his time with Troop 321, as well a baseball coach for North Mission Viejo Little League.

Blessed with 7 nieces and 12 nephews, Robb loved being an uncle.  Whether it was sitting at the table drawing, exchanging baseball cards, teaching them how to fish or playing corn hole, Uncle Robb always enjoyed being with the kids.

When Robb is remembered, it is our hope that he is remembered as a great man who was kind and loved people. He will be missed dearly.

Please click to view Robert’s videos:   MOV_4944   IMG_0971