The family of Robert Bonastia publicly thanks the entire Paramus community for the support given during his 9-month battle with kidney cancer.
Rob passed away July 11 at the age of 19.
“We would like to thank everyone in the community for all their encouragement and help. The fundraisers, prayers, meals and support have meant so much to our family,” said Michele Bonastia, Rob’s mother. “We deeply appreciate their presence at his funeral services, and for all their letters, Mass cards, gift certificates, donations, flowers and kindness.”
Since last fall, the community rallied together in support of the Class of 2012 Paramus High School graduate organizing fundraisers, sporting events and dinners raising awareness for the disease and supporting the family during this difficult time.
His family notes the many local businesses which helped out including Maya Mallya salon in Ridgefield Park which held a cut-a-thon and Paramus' On the Border and Moe's Southwest Grill held fundraisers and the Paramus Recreation Department, friends and local business people which organized a Pasta Benefit and Trick Tray event this past January.
There were also “Smiles for Rob” bracelets and T-shirts program, Team Robbie B. bracelets, Green Ribbons for Rob and Home Runs for Robbie, a baseball fundraiser event. Robert was a varsity baseball player at Paramus High School.
Last month friends and family joined Rob in a Relay for Life team "In Rob We Trust" raising $8,000 during the first community-wide fundraiser for the American Cancer Society.
“Rob was so proud to have been able to contribute in some way toward the fight against cancer,” said Michelle Bonastia.
Donations may be made in Rob’s memory to Share USA, 234 Kinderkamack Rd., Oradell, NJ 07649.
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