Obituary of Robert N. Failla

Robert N. Failla

Executive and Metal Fabricator

Robert N. Failla of Jupiter FL and formerly of Short Hills and Livingston NJ passed away on June 30, 2023.

Born in Newark, NJ, Robert, known as Bob, was the son of the late Anthony and Marian Failla Mollica and step-son of the late Eugene T. Mollica. A devoted husband, he was married to his wife, Ann C. Failla for over 61 years. Bob was a graduate of Columbia High School, Maplewood NJ and Purdue University, Lafayette, IN where he received a degree in Industrial Engineering and Management. Bob was the owner and president of New Jersey Gear and Manufacturing in Hillside, NJ and later merged his company with Aero Gear Corporation where his role was Vice President. The company was later sold to Mannesmann, Inc, Dusseldorf, Germany and was renamed American Lohman where Bob continued his role as Vice President. Bob also owned and operated the metal fabrication company, Duro Manufacturing, Inc, Union NJ. He was a member of the American Gear Manufacturing Association and a trusted advisor to many in the metallurgy field.

Bob was active in the Father’s Club of Oak Knoll School and Delbarton where his two children attended. He was made a Knight of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher of Jerusalem, Eastern Lieutenancy of the US, for service to the Catholic Church. He served on the buildings and grounds committee of the Home School Association of St. Rose of Lima School in Short Hills.

Bob was a member of Rock Spring Club, West Orange, NJ for 40 years and served on its Board of Governors. He was affectionately known as “long ball” and the “Mayor of Rock Spring” entertaining all with his humor and infectious laugh and smile. Bob enjoyed traveling for business and pleasure and had a keen interest in photography. His true love was music, particularly jazz and songs from the 40’s and 50’s, always able to “name that tune” in 5 notes or less.  An avid reader, he delved into history and politics, especially the war years, with one lifetime highlight being a trip to Omaha Beach and its surrounding area. Bob was devoted to his friends and family and made it a point to have special memories with his grandchildren. You could not help but enjoy time spent with Bob. He loved life to the fullest.

He is survived by his devoted wife Ann and his loving children whom he cherished dearly, Marita Wolff and her husband Patrick, Maplewood, NJ and Robert A. Failla and his wife Kerry, Chatham Township, NJ. His six grandchildren whom he treasured and adored, Cullen, Kayleigh and Aidan Wolff, and Christopher, Matthew and Katherine Failla.  His stepbrother Eugene T. Mollica and his wife Sandra and his two sister-in-law’s Louise Martorana and her husband Anthony, and Mary Wetmore. He was predeceased by his two sisters Geraldine Comerci and Shirley Albanese.

The family will be receiving friends at St. Rose of Lima Church, 50 Short Hills Ave, Short Hills on Friday, July 14^th from 10 – 11 AM followed by Memorial Mass at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers donations to Trust Bridge Hospice of the Palm Beaches,  or Tunnel to Towers Foundation, in memory of Robert Failla would be appreciated.

For more information or to send condolences please visit jacobhollefuneralhome.com