of Conway, AR
July 6, 1935 - July 25, 2025
In Loving Memory Of Robert Peter Fratesi
Robert (Bobby) Peter Fratesi of Conway, Arkansas died on Friday, July 25, 2025 at the age of 90. Born in Pine Bluff, Arkansas on July 6, 1935 to Warren and Angeline (Rocconi) Fratesi, Robert was the proud son of an Italian immigrant father from Pesaro, Italy. He graduated from Pine Bluff High School and went on to become a third-generation farmer in Jefferson County, where he farmed for over 50 years until his retirement in 2001.
Robert was actively involved in various agricultural organizations throughout his farming career, often holding leadership positions. A natural innovator, he designed numerous tools and implements to improve farm efficiency. Among his most notable inventions was the poly pipe roller, which earned second place in the 1991 American Farm Bureau Federation's Farmer Idea Exchange Contest.
He was a lifelong member of both the Jefferson County Farm Bureau and the Arkansas Farm Bureau. In 1981, his family was honored as the Jefferson County Farm Family of the Year. A man of deep faith, he was a longtime member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Pine Bluff and following retirement, became a devoted member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Conway. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus, holding both Third and Fourth Degree status.
He served his country in the U.S. Army Medical Division, both on active duty and in the Reserve. After retiring from farming, he found joy in woodworking, spending countless hours in his workshop crafting projects for family and friends.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Mary Ann and three daughters, Cynthia (Raul) Flores of Dana Point, CA; Lisa (Steven) Pite of San Diego, CA and Monica Shull of Owasso, OK. He was preceded in death by his son, Brian Robert Fratesi in 1998. Cherished grandchildren include Evan Flores (Lexi), Anna Flores and Seth Pite all of San Diego, CA; Dara Pite of New York, NY; Emily Shull Martinez (Dakotah) of Norman, OK and Adam Shull of Pittsburgh, PA. He also leaves behind one great-grandson, Callum Robert Flores of San Diego, CA.
He is survived by two sisters, Patsy (Bill) Russo of Tulsa, OK and Elaine (Tommy) Dial of Pine Bluff, AR. He was preceded in death by his sister, Jane Borecky and brother-in-law, Jerry Borecky.
Services will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church at 1115 College Avenue in Conway on Wednesday, July 30th. A Rosary/Visitation will be held at 10:00am followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00am. Burial will be at 3:00pm on Wednesday at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Pine Bluff.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Joseph Endowment Fund, 1315 College Avenue, Conway, AR 72032 or to St. Joseph Catholic Church, 1115 College Avenue, Conway, AR 72032.
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10 Condolence(s)
Benny and Chloe Fratesi
Wednesday, July 30, 2025
You are in our prayers now and in the days to come, Mary Ann. Bobby meant the absolute world to Benny; he will be terribly missed. Sending all of our love to you and the girls. 🩷
Jerry & Beverly Johnson
Wednesday, July 30, 2025
Our sincere condolences to Mary Ann and family. May God comfort your broken hearts and give you peace in the days to come. ✝️🙏🏻
Kathy Hans
Wednesday, July 30, 2025
Bob gave us a beautiful sister and wife to our brother. He was a wonderful man. Prayers going to his family during this difficult time.
Ronnie Brewer
Wednesday, July 30, 2025
So sorry to hear of of Bobby's passing. I liked visiting with him at KC meetings.
Gus Lorenz
Wednesday, July 30, 2025
Bobby was a good friend to me and my family. He taught me so much about farming and just being a good person. He was a strong positive influence on my life and I will be forever grateful that he was a part of my life. He will be missed. Rest in peace Bobby. I will never forget you.
Gilbert Family
Tuesday, July 29, 2025
So sorry to hear of Bobby's passing. Eternal Rest to Bobby and comfort to the family.
Pat & June Henderson
Tuesday, July 29, 2025
Brother and wonderful friend, you will be missed. I met Bob when we moved to Summer Hill. I don't recall our first meeting, but we developed a strong relationship over the years. Did so many things together, helped each other and shared many occasions.
God bless, love you, may we continue our friendship when we meet in heaven.
Until then, we will pray for Mary Ann and the family.
William (Bill) Mergenschroer
Tuesday, July 29, 2025
Prayers for the Family. Will miss a poker buddy.
Mary Ellen Kordsmeier
Monday, July 28, 2025
So sorry to hear of Bob's passing. Well done, good and faithful servant. You will be missed by many.
Charles and Judy Rocconi
Monday, July 28, 2025
We are so sorry for your loss. We will always remember Bobby for his kindness and his humor. He touched so many lives in such a positive way. We will continue to pray for Mary Ann and their daughters and we will be there Wednesday to celebrate his life.