The Bergenfield High School community experienced a tragic loss when Robert Violante, a beloved son, coach, and mentor, died in a devastating car accident in New Castle, Westchester County, on May 14, 2025.
Rob, known for his warmth and kindness, passed away at 45, leaving many with both his athletic skills and caring nature.
Robert Violante’s Parents, Frank and Martha Violante, played a key role in shaping his life and character. Rob touched the lives of countless people.
Robert Violante Was Born Into A Family Where Sports Ran On-depth
His father, Frank Violante, known to many as “Skip,” was a legendary football coach in Westchester County.
Frank’s influence stretched across schools like Dobbs Ferry High School, Rye Neck High School, and Somers High School, where he earned a reputation as one of the best football coaches in New York State history.
His passion for the game and dedication to his players left an everlasting mark on the community and his son, Rob.
Rob’s mother, Martha Lanagan Violante, brought her strength to the family.
A graduate of the University of St. Francis, Martha is a licensed salesperson at William Pitt-Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s International Realty.
Beyond her professional success, she was an inspiring figure for Rob and his brothers, Brian and Chris.
Martha’s warmth and encouragement gave her children the confidence to chase their dreams on and off the field.
Growing up in Westchester, Rob and his brothers were inseparable, often seen playing sports together.
The Violante household was a hub of energy, filled with the sounds of laughter, competition, and support.
Frank and Martha encouraged an environment where hard work and kindness went hand in hand, values that Rob carried throughout his life.
Robert Was A Standout Athlete From A Young Age
At Somers High School, from 1994 to 1998, he shone as a star varsity quarterback and basketball player.
His talent on the football field was absolute, earning him admiration from peers and younger students.
Jeffrey Weiner, a former classmate, recalls idolizing Rob as a seventh-grader.
Weiner wrote:
“He was my 1st true idol, when as a 7th grader I would go watch him on Friday nights as the larger than life star QB and dream of one day being like him. When I finally got to know him in 9th grade when he was the superstar senior, he treated me with such kindness, at a time when honestly the other seniors wouldn’t even acknowledge Freshmen’s existence. Robbie’s daily presence during that formative year of my childhood set an example for me to follow and gave me the confidence to believe in myself and my future. Rest in Peace, Robbie, and thank you from the bottom of my heart for the positive impact you had on my life 💔🙏❤️”
Via Facebook
That small gesture left a continuing impact, showing Rob’s ability to make others feel seen and valued.
After high school, Rob continued his football career at Iona College, playing quarterback for the Gaels during his freshman year.
He later transferred to the University of Delaware, where he played for the Blue Hens and graduated in 2001.
His time as a college athlete deepened his love for the game and his desire to give back to the sport that shaped him.
Following his father’s footsteps, Rob found his calling as a coach.
In the mid-2000s, he served as an assistant football coach at Dobbs Ferry High School, where he began honing his ability to mentor young athletes.
In 2011, he joined Bergenfield High School as head football coach, a role he held for 15 years, making him one of the longest-tenured coaches in the school’s history.
He also coached track and field, pouring his energy into every athlete he worked with.
Like his father, Frank, Rob was more than a coach—he was a mentor and a father figure.
Bergenfield Mayor Arvin Amatorio said,
“He was more than a coach, he was a mentor, father figure, and a source of strength for our students and community. His impact as Head Football Coach and Dean of Students will never be forgotten.
Rob restored the Bergenfield Bears Football Program, bringing success that hadn’t been seen in years.
His players looked up to him for his knowledge of the game and how he cared about their lives beyond the field.
After Michael Monaghan’s brother, Brian, passed away in 2016, Rob supported a tribute to Brian’s coaching legacy.
Rob’s Life Ended In An Accident On A Quiet Road In New Castle
According to police, a 2014 Ram ProMaster van, driven by Yader A. Reyes, 50, of Long Branch, New Jersey, crossed the center median and collided with Rob’s 2024 Honda Accord.
Three passengers in the van—Odenis Balladares Martinez, 20, Harrison Mauricio Reyes Rivera, 34, and Bryan Aguilar Castillo, 45—were pronounced dead at the scene.
Rob was rushed to a local hospital but succumbed to his injuries.
The van’s driver remains in critical condition at Westchester Medical Center, and the cause of the crash is still under investigation.
The news of Rob’s passing sent shockwaves through the Bergenfield and Westchester communities.
The Bergenfield Public School District shared their grief in a heartfelt letter on Facebook:
For Frank and Martha Violante, the loss of their son is a pain no parent should endure.
Rob showed their love, values, and strong support for each other.
As the community mourns, they rally around Frank and Martha, honoring Rob’s memory by sharing stories of his kindness, his leadership, and his infectious spirit.
Rest In Paradise, Coach V.
