Robert Peter DeStefano - Obituary

obert “Bob” Peter DeStefano, 77, an Anne Arundel County resident for more than 50 years, died on June 9, 2009 at Somerford Place in Annapolis, MD of dementia after a six year illness. Born June 29, 1931 in Providence, RI, he graduated from the University of Maryland in 1953 with a Bachelor of Science Degree. After college, he served in the United States Air Force for several years. He was the President, founder and owner of Sturbridge Development Company since 1976. Mr. DeStefano won a Sugar Bowl ring for the University of Maryland; developed Park Plaza, Kent Towne Market and the Village at Waugh Chapel. He enjoyed serving his community, among other things he was a trustee of Anne Arundel Community College and he served as Chairman of the Board for Anne Arundel Medical Center, where he played a key role in the hospital's accquiring their current location on Jennifer Road. Bob also was a big supporter of Hospice of the Chesapeake. He was the beloved husband of the late Nancy Virginia DeStefano, whom he married in 1953 and who died on January 9, 2008; devoted father of William DeStefano of Centreville, MD, Robert DeStefano of Edgewater, MD, Michael DeStefano of Severna Park, MD, Lynn Walterhoefer of West River, MD and Gina DeStefano of Crownsville, MD; brother of Joseph and Mario DeStefano both of Providence, RI; he is also survived by 13 grandchildren. Friends are invited to Bob's Life Celebration on Friday, June 12, at the George P. Kalas Funeral Home, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, MD from 4 to 8pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Saturday, June 13 at Our Lady of the Fields Catholic Church, 1070 Cecil Avenue, Millersville, MD at 10am. Interment private. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Hospice of the Chesapeake, 445 Defense Highway, Annapolis, MD 21401 or the Alzheimer's Association, Greater Maryland Chapter, 1850 York Road, Ste. D, Timonium, MD 21093.