TOLLINI - Robert J. "Bob"
Age 74, of Herndon, VA, passed away on February 4, 2022, following a prolonged battle with cancer. At his request, no service will be held. His family and friends will celebrate his life virtually on February 17th, with an in-person party to follow in the Spring. Bob was born to parents Rudolph and Sophie (Misterovich) Tollini, on January 6, 1948, in Buffalo, NY. He graduated from Kenmore West High School in 1965 and starting at 17 attended Cornell University. Following his graduation with a B.A. in 1969, he attended Columbia Business School, where he earned an M.B.A. in 1971. In 1987, Bob married Patricia (Smith) Tollini, who survives him. He is also survived by his son, Michael (Erin) Tollini; sister Loretta (Albin) Bishop; brother Dennis (Gail) Tollini; two granddaughters, and 12 nieces and nephews, to whom he was beloved Uncle Bob. Bob was a well-known personality in the video distribution industry, following a multi-decade career that featured management roles at CBS/Fox, Video Trend and Major Video Concepts. While passionate in his career, Bob was a dedicated volunteer starting with Big Brothers and Big Sisters, with whom his involvement dates back to the mid-1980s. In the years since, Bob's volunteer-ism focused on homelessness, education and mentor-ship, dedicating his time to non-profits such as School on Wheels, Second Helpings and College Mentors for Kids. While his selflessness sought no recognition, the Indianapolis Rotary Club recognized him with an "Unsung Hero" award in 2011. Bob's ongoing love of movies led to a long-term role with the Heartland Films, and his local community involvement included service as a board member and president of Geist Harbours, a property owners association of over 2,000 homes in metropolitan Indianapolis. Bob was truly one-of-a-kind. His deep intellect was met with a combination of humility and humor, and despite all of his virtue and success, Bob never thought of himself as being better than anyone else. While at times his words were few, his acts reflected his deeply held principles that spoke volumes. Most of all, he loved his family and friends. In 2018, he and wife Patricia relocated from Indianapolis to Northern Virginia to be close to their son and granddaughters, with whom he shared a special bond. The thoughtful counsel that Bob provided to those fortunate enough to know him are an enduring legacy. He will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts. The valiant never taste of death but once.