Roberto 'Bob' Bilbao

September 28, 1959 - May 19, 2024

A titan in the world of construction whose dedication, love, wickedly quick humor, and genuine joy in the simple moments of life left an indelible mark on all who knew him, departed from this world on May 19, 2024. Born into a family of five boys to Edith Bilbao, Bob's life was a testament to hard work, perseverance, and the power of love.

He met his beloved wife, Belen, at the tender age of 13, and their love story blossomed into a rare and enduring bond that inspired all who witnessed it. Their love was one for the books, rivaling those seen on the movie screens. They celebrated 43 years of marriage, a testament to their unwavering commitment and love for each other, which only deepened and strengthened with age.

Bob achieved a milestone by passing the competency test to become State Certified in General Contracting in the early 80's. This paved the way for the creation of RBGC Inc., a company synonymous with excellence in high-end residential and commercial structures. Bob's expertise in architecture and design earned him the affectionate nickname "Bob the Builder," a title he wore with pride.

Bob's legacy lives on through his two children, Andres "Andy" and Carolina "Nina" Bilbao. Andy, following in his father's footsteps, joined RBGC Inc. in 2020, forming a dynamic father-son duo dedicated to bringing their clients' dreams to life through innovative design/build projects.

A man of unwavering dedication, Bob's day began at 4 a.m., fueled by a passion for his work, a colada from Roma and a deep love for his family.  Even with his busy schedule, Bob made time for everyone he met.  Anyone who crossed his path quickly became a friend and felt like family. He would do anything to help someone in need, embodying the true spirit of kindness and generosity.

Each morning he would text his daughter, Nina (despite the location she lived in), "good morning baby," a simple gesture that reflected his deep connection and love for his family. He cherished the moments spent in the truck listening and laughing to his son's stories and shared a special bond with Nina, who was the light of his life.

But amidst his bustling schedule, Bob found true happiness in the simple moments spent with his family. There was no place he'd rather be than in bed with his loved ones, watching movies and sharing laughter. These precious moments were a testament to his devotion to family and his ability to find joy in the everyday.

Bob's passions extended beyond the world of construction. He was a fervent lover of art, frequenting Art Basel and galleries with his family, where he forged meaningful connections with artists, blossoming into deep friendships.  His eclectic taste ranged from Kitsch to urban art, and the art he most passionately adored and wanted to share with the world was the art from Cuban artists.  He found beauty and meaning in all forms of expression. This love for art was a gift he passed down to his children, inspiring them and their friends alike.

Bob's zest for life was evident in everything he did. His quick humor lit up any room, leaving everyone in stitches with his dad jokes and playful banter. From enjoying a hotdog at Arbetter's to never missing an episode of "The Five" on Fox News, Bob lived each day to the fullest, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and dedication.

A mass to celebrate Bob's life will be held on Thursday, May 30th at 6:30 p.m. at St. Hugh Catholic Church in Coconut Grove. All who knew and loved Bob are invited to attend and share their memories of a man whose impact will never be forgotten.

Rest in paradise, Papa. Your spirit lives on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know you. You were right—we are all going to miss you now that you’re gone, but we’ll keep laughing and smiling in your honor. 

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