Robert Gerard McCrystal, 58, of Columbia, NJ, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on June 24, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born on May 5, 1967, in Queens, NY, Bob was the beloved son of Frank Gerard and Angie (Blanco) McCrystal. A proud American with a heart full of love for his family and his home, Bob lived a life marked by dedication, resilience, and quiet strength.
Bob worked as a truck driver for Prospect Fuel in Carlstadt and Wharton, NJ—a job he enjoyed and took pride in every day. Known for his strong work ethic and kind nature, he was deeply respected by his coworkers and customers alike.
Bob found peace and purpose in his home and yard, always planting flowers, improving his surroundings, and taking great pride in making his house a warm and welcoming place for those he loved. He was a lifelong fan of the Dallas Cowboys and Boston Red Sox, and his love for music—especially Metallica—was a defining part of who he was.
Family meant everything to Bob. He was a devoted husband to his wife of 32 years, Laurie, a loving father to his daughter Kelsey Toth and her husband Derek, and his son Troy and wife Valentina. His greatest joy in recent years came from being a Pop-Pop to his adored granddaughters, Vivian Skye and Oaklynn Grace.
In addition, Bob is also survived by his loving mother Angie McCrystal, his brothers Frank and wife Mara, and Steve and wife Sherry. He is further survived by in-laws Jeff and wife Cathy Williams, Paul Williams, and Debbie Williams. Bob also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. He is predeceased by his father, Frank and his brother in-law, Scott.
Relatives and friends are invited to pay their respects on Friday, June 27, from 5–8 PM at the Newbaker Funeral Home, 200 Route 94, Blairstown (GPS Columbia), NJ. A Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 AM on Saturday, June 28, at St. Jude Roman Catholic Church, 9 Eisenhower Road, Columbia, NJ.
Bob’s legacy of love, hard work, and quiet strength will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.