Roberto Barrera

Roberto “Bobby” Barrera went home to be with Jesus on Sunday, February 2nd, at the young age of fifteen. While heartbroken, we take comfort in the belief that Bobby is in heaven, whole and perfect, and that we will be reunited with him again. 

To know Bobby was to love him dearly. His sweet, infectious spirit, quick wit, and goofiness touched all who had the privilege to know him. Above all, he loved and shared an incredibly close relationship with his family. His father, Pete, his mother, Eva, his brother, Alex, and his twin sister, Jessica, shared countless adventures together. Many of these extraordinary times involved the Chicago White Sox and finding a game whenever (and wherever) possible. The Barrara’s love hard and welcomed many friends into their family. Bobby exemplified this trait by making friends quickly and including everyone. His dad, Pete, said it best, as he always referred to Bob as “his sweet boy.” 

Bobby was the greatest cheerleader and encourager of his twin sister, Jessica, in all her activities. Jessica always jokingly called Bobby “Chicken” because she said he ran like a chicken and because of his imitation of Kramer in his favorite Seinfeld episode. 

Bobby and his Aunt Teresa had a special relationship. Bob loved to push her buttons and tease her. He was known to jump out and scare her on occasion. His special nickname for her was Tia Tortilla. 

Bobby enjoyed spending time with friends, playing video games, eating snacks, and watching Seinfeld (he could quote almost every episode!) While initially not excited for the start of high school, he quickly made friends with everyone he encountered. He has a special bond with his coach, Cary Bolnick, who went above and beyond with Bob. 

 Following in his dad, Pete and older brother Alex's footsteps, his greatest passion was baseball. Bobby loved playing baseball with his friends. Bob always smiled, laughed, and played jokes, earning him the nickname Tricky Bobby. Even as a kid, Bobby was a natural athlete who was passionate about the game. Starting in Little League, Bobby played for many teams throughout the years. He quickly became a favorite player with both his coaches and teammates. His work ethic was personified as he dedicated himself to becoming the best player he could be. Bob worked hard at practice and spent extra hours in the batting cages. Always the first one to shag balls and the last one out of the dugout. 

Bobby's sudden death was a shock to everyone who knew him. Bob’s kindness, gentleness, generosity, and humor will always be remembered by all who have had the honor of knowing him. His death is a reminder that life is precious. 

Thank you for keeping our family in your thoughts during this difficult time. Please honor Bobby’s memory by loving hard and always leading with kindness. 

 “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.” John 14:27 

Visitation will be held on Monday, February 10, 2025 from 3-8pm at Hursen Funeral Home 4001 Roosevelt Rd., Hillside, IL where a Prayer Service will be held Tuesday, February 11, 2025 at 9:30am. Burial to follow at Queen of Heaven Cemetery. To help assist the family, donations can be made here by clicking: For Robert Barrera RIP.