Robert Rymarz

Robert Rymarz, 64, of Amsterdam, NY, passed away on October 28, 2026, at home, surrounded by his loving family. Born June 19, 1962, in Ridgewood, New Jersey, Robert was the son of the late Joy Duncan. Robert had a way of making an impression on just about everyone he met. Known for his cynical sense of humor and ability to strike up a conversation with anyone, he never lacked a (sometimes long-winded) story to tell or an opinion to share. He was particularly known for his one-of-a-kind analogies, even if they at-times made more sense to him than anyone else, including his famous, “I swam mighty rivers, ain’t never got wet.” Whenever life wasn’t going his way, he would blame it on “that old black cow.” Whether anyone else understood exactly what he meant was beside the point; his expressions became part of what made him so wonderfully himself. A talented and passionate chef, Robert dedicated much of his life to the culinary industry before retiring due to health complications. Throughout his career, he worked at numerous restaurants, including the renowned Inn at Little Washington in Virginia. For Robert, food was never simply about cooking or putting a meal on the table. It was about bringing people together, introducing them to different cultures, sparking curiosity, and creating memories that would last long after the meal was over. His passion for food was something he shared generously, both in his professional life and at home. Together, Robert and Kathryn raised three children and built a lifetime of memories. Outside the kitchen, he found happiness in life’s everyday pleasures, including scenic drives, walks, bicycle rides, watching football, and occasionally enjoying a round of golf. He loved spending evenings watching his favorite shows, such as Family Feud and Survivor. Robert had an extraordinary love for animals and throughout the years, his family welcomed many beloved cats into their home. Robert affectionately considered himself the neighborhood’s “Cat Whisperer,” and no visitor, furry or otherwise, was likely to leave hungry. His compassion extended to all creatures great and small, including the squirrels, birds, skunks, and groundhogs that frequented his yard. In addition to his wife of 38 years, Kathryn Rymarz, Robert is survived by his children, Robbie Rymarz, Brianna Rymarz, and Renee Nesbitt (Matthew). He also leaves behind his half-brother, Jack Rymarz, of Tennessee; Brianna’s longtime partner, Devanie, and his son, Josiah; his beloved pets; and many dear friends. Above all, Robert will be remembered for the way he made people feel. He had a gift for making others feel welcome, sharing what he knew without pretense, and finding lessons in life’s difficult moments. He was honest, humble, resilient, and generous with both his time and his heart.

 If Robert could leave those he loved with one final piece of advice, it would be the same sentiment he shared throughout his life: Make the memories, take the trip, try something new, and never wait for the perfect time to enjoy the life you’ve been given. 

The family will receive relatives and friends on Friday, November 6, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Betz, Rossi, Bellinger & Stewart Family Funeral Home, 171 Guy Park Avenue, Amsterdam, NY. A funeral service will follow at 12:00 PM at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery, 183 Upper Steadwell Avenue, Amsterdam, NY 12010.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Robert’s memory to Kitten Angels, a volunteer-run nonprofit cat rescue organization based in Mayfield, NY. Robert had a lifelong love for animals, especially cats, and his family welcomed several beloved companions into their home through the organization.