Robert Thomas Barnicle, known to most as Bob, was a devoted family man with an unforgettable sense of humor. He was famous for his “Bobisms,” and if asked how he was doing, he’d often reply, “Any better, I couldn’t stand it.” Bob, 84, of St. Louis, Missouri, died peacefully at home on January 19, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
Bob was born in St. Louis to Edwin and Ellen Barnicle and grew up in University City. He attended Christ the King grade school and Christian Brothers College High School before earning a degree in psychology and counseling from Saint Louis University. He dedicated his professional life to helping others as a guidance counselor at Riverview Gardens High School.
In retirement, Bob joyfully embraced farming, woodworking, salmon fishing, and volunteering. He gave generously of his time at St. Cronan’s Food Pantry and the Missouri Botanical Garden, where he proudly earned the nickname “Bamboo Bob.”
Bob was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Tony Barnicle. He is survived by his sister Dorrit (Neil) O’Hallaron; sister-in-law Lorraine Barnicle; his wife and love of his life, Penny Barnicle; his children Kelly (Ron) Hutchcraft, Ellen (Will) Schmitt, and Tom Barnicle (Jennifer Leineke); and his six cherished grandchildren, Michael, Nicole, Jacob, Noah, Natalie, and Vivienne.
A memorial Mass will be held at 8:00 a.m. on March 22, 2026, at St. Cronan Church, 1202 S. Boyle Ave., St. Louis, Missouri 63110. In lieu of flowers, donations to the St. Cronan Food Pantry would be greatly appreciated.
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