Robert Kenneth Kolbe
“Rob, Robbie, Bob, BR”
 

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Robert Kenneth Kolbe—beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend—on July 24, 2025, at the age of 78.

Born in Cliffside Park, New Jersey, Rob lived a full and meaningful life rooted in devotion to family, service, and joy. He was a proud alumnus of The Perkiomen School (Class of 1965), graduated from American University in 1969, and earned his law degree from American University’s Washington College of Law in 1971.

Rob served his country honorably as a U.S. Army Sergeant (E5) from 1969 to 1975. He went on to have a distinguished career in law and public service, spending many years as a tax attorney with the Internal Revenue Service. From 1997 to 2002, he served as the Western Regional Leader for Healthcare, Higher Education, and Tax-Exempt Practice at PricewaterhouseCoopers, where his leadership and expertise were widely respected.

Rob’s greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Lisa Kolbe; his daughters, Kyra Vocci (Chris) and Larisa Kolbe; and his adored grandchildren, Dominic and Jax Vocci, and Harbor McBride. He is also survived by his brother, Eric Kolbe, and son-in-law Chazz McBride. Rob is preceded in death by his cherished daughter, Andrea Kolbe, who passed away in December 2023.

Known by many names—Rob, Robbie, Bob, BR—he was deeply generous, kind-hearted, and always willing to help others. He had a magnetic presence, the kind of person who made everyone feel welcome. He loved good music (especially Zydeco), traveling to Jazzfest, sharing cigars and Chardonnay with friends, and hosting unforgettable celebrations. Rob lived with joy, humor, and an open heart.

A Celebration of Life will be planned in the coming weeks, where family and friends will gather to honor Rob and the incredible life he lived.

In lieu of flowers, please consider honoring Rob by doing something he would have loved—turn up the music, enjoy a good glass of wine, and toast to a life well lived.
You may also make a donation to The Andrea's Wish Foundation (https://bcf.org/fund/andrea/) created to honor his beloved daughter and continue her legacy of love, light and compassion.

Online condolences may be shared with his family on our website at www.molesworthwilliams.com