Obituaries

Robert J. (Bob) Foley, a legend who never needed an introduction, passed away Tuesday morning surrounded by his loved ones. Albeit only 42 years young, “Fol” certainly lived those 42 years to the fullest.
A proud native of North Scranton, the legend was born on June 30, 1980 to adoring parents, Eugene and JoAnne (Molinaro) Foley. A standout athlete in his youth, basketball was his specialty from his days playing for the former Holy Rosary School. A 1999 graduate of Bishop Hannan High School, he starred on the school’s first ever PIAA Eastern Conference Championship squad, which led him to All-Lackawanna League honors. He continued to play hoops at Penn State University’s Worthington Campus before eventually graduating from P.S.U. with a Bachelor’s degree in human development and family studies. During college, Fol became a familiar face Tinks Entertainment Complex, a downtown institution, where he did everything from DJ to serve some stiff drinks. What began as a hobby, he began DJing throughout the region. Under the handle “D.J. Cadillac” or “D.J. Boogie”, chances are he emceed an event you attended. Being the life of the party was Fol’s specialty.
He truly wanted to make a difference in the world so he first worked for Tri-County Youth Services helping underprivileged children before moving out west. He spent two years in Hermosa Beach, California, where he began his career in sales. He returned home to work for Frontier Communications, Times Shamrock Communications, McCarthy’s Tire Co. and, most recently, for Kost Tire and Auto. He also worked periodically at Stalls by Stahl, a job he just couldn’t seem to give up.
In November of 2011, Fol received a brain cancer diagnosis which would have crippled even the strongest of people. Fol, with the same fearlessness and optimism he possessed his entire life, battled this disease with dignity and a smile for over a decade. He used his time in remission to openly talk about what he was dealing with and how his positive energy, spirit and mindset guided him thoughout his journey. He had spoke numerous times on behalf of the American Cancer Society’s Coaches vs. Cancer NEPA. His perspective, outlook, perpetual smile and larger-than-life personality never wavered, even as of late after his cancer returned.
If you’re reading this, you certainly have your own Bob Foley story(ies) as he was undoubtedly one of the most engaging, friendly, kind and loving people you’ll ever meet. Cherish those memories. They’re his legacy. His children were his daily source of motivation to power through. His unconditional love for them had no bounds and if he had to leave a message behind for them, it would be that their Daddy will always love them.
Heaven gained an all-time great on Tuesday who will never be forgotten.
He is survived by his heart-broken family and extended family of countless friends; his loving wife, Lauren (Antzoulis) Foley with whom he would’ve celebrated a 10th wedding anniversary on November 7th; his adored children, Lena and Lennix Foley; his parents and caregivers, Eugene and JoAnn Foley; his sister and best bud, Bridget Hughes and husband P.J. and their children, Avery and Kellen Hughes; aunts, uncles, cousins and amazing friends.
His family would be remiss not to acknowledge and thank the amazing souls who’ve collectively been there for both Bob and his family throughout the years: Dr. Meghan (Stott) Haggerty, Dr. Harmar Brereton, the entire staffs of both Allied Hospice Care and Memorial Sloan Kettering Hospital; and to the entire community who have served as Bob’s source of inspiration for the past ten years.
A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for Saturday at 11:00 AM at Mary, Mother of God Parish, 316 William Street in North Scranton, to be celebrated by Rev. Cyril Edwards, Pastor. Private burial, Cathedral Cemetery.
Family and friends are welcome to celebrate Fol’s life on Saturday from 9:00 AM until Mass at the church.
Arrangements are under the care of the Kevin K. Kearney Funeral Homes, Inc., West Scranton and Old Forge. Please visit the funeral home’s website for directions or to leave a condolence.

“Buy the ticket. Take the ride.” -R.J.F.