Robert Anthony Moffa

Robert “Bob” Anthony Moffa, 83, of Ruskin, FL passed away on January 1, 2025. Bob was born on June 7, 1941 in Philadelphia, PA to Samuel and Ida Moffa. He was one of four children, having one sister and two brothers. As a young child, Bob showed an affinity for music. He taught himself to play piano at the family’s home in Newfield, NJ. His love for music flourished and it became his lifelong passion. Bob’s father realizing his musical talent sought out an accordion and formal instruction for him to learn music theory and augment his natural talent. Throughout high school, Bob played the accordion and tuba. Recognizing his musicianship, Bob was honored with the “John Philip Sousa Band Award for Outstanding Interest and Growth in Instrumental Music” by his high school band director. Bob composed the recessional march “Gay Mood” for his high school commencement. While attending Glassboro State College (now Rowan University) in New Jersey, Bob grew as a composer. One of his orchestral compositions was inspired by the Berlin Crisis. Bob was moved by the troubling events highlighted in the news and the letters he received from a dear friend in the service. Bob composed the “Berlin Suite” to bring awareness to this political conflict. It was performed during a concert held on the Glassboro campus at Tohill Auditorium. This work was later commended by President John F. Kennedy, “You are to be congratulated for your contribution to the American ideals worldwide, through your music.” Following graduation, Bob married the love of his life Mercedes “Marcie” Ann Sheets. He began his teaching career at local schools, while Marcie completed her undergraduate studies. They soon relocated to her hometown of Cape May, NJ. Here they opened a music studio that offered lessons, instrument sales, and repairs. Bob’s love for the outdoors led him and Marcie to Vermont, where they taught music in one room schoolhouses located throughout Essex and Caledonia Counties in the Northeast Kingdom. Bob developed and managed a renowned auction house, where he enjoyed working as an auctioneer. He also built the all-inclusive resort and lodge Wilderness Farms. In 1976, the family briefly relocated to New Hampshire where Bob and Marcie managed a popular inn, before later settling down in Florida. Beginning a new chapter in Florida, Bob became a Realtor. He later was the Minister of Music for 14 years at The First United Methodist Church in Plant City, FL. During this time, he also continued to pursue his passion for composing. As Bob became more involved in the local community, he identified a need for art and music to be shared and accessible for everyone to appreciate and enjoy. He envisioned using art and music to highlight hardship and foster awareness within the community. In an effort to achieve this vision, Bob founded the American Ideals Foundation. Since 1981, this foundation has continued to enrich communities by putting art and music in public places. In the mid 1980’s, the foundation endeavored to support humanitarian efforts through the development of the National Farmer’s Memorial in Bonner Springs, Kansas. The memorial was created to bring awareness to the hardships, sacrifices, and dedication of the nation’s farmers. Recognizing the farmer’s past, present and future, Bob composed the orchestral suite entitled “The American Farmer”. In later years, the American Ideals foundation strived to support veterans and families in need. This will continue to be the focus of the foundation in the coming years. Bob is predeceased by his brother, Arthur Moffa. He is survived by his wife, Mercedes Moffa, daughter Lana (and Gavin) Stebbins, daughter Nicole (and Jeffrey) Macri, daughter Mary Moffa, 7 grandchildren, Arien and Ryan Stebbins, Aleesia and Nicholas Macri, Robert Bradburn, David and Marsia Crumbly, sister, Elsie Radano, brother Samuel Moffa (and Carmella). He leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews. Bob is dearly missed and will be forever loved by his family and friends. A Celebration of Life will take place on February 8, 2025, from 1:00 PM until 4:30 PM. The Eden in Riverview 10633 Rhodine Road Riverview, Florida 33578 In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Bob’s honor to the American Ideals Foundation. To RSVP or for information regarding donating to the American Ideals Foundation, please email the family at robertmoffapiano@gmail.com

Robert Anthony Moffa

June 7, 1941 - January 1, 2025

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Robert Anthony Moffa

June 7, 1941 - January 1, 2025

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