I had the pleasure of meeting Bob last November at the NY Custom Knife Show.
We had a few drinks at the bar, well it was actually a couple of bars and several drinks. We all hit it off from the get go, Bob was a really easy guy to have fun with. He had quick wit, a sharp mind and a smile that came easily to him.
Although I almost exclusively collect Daltons, I managed to acquire a couple of knives from Bob, his prices were the best I could find anywhere and his customer service was legendary. Later I learned how generous he really was. Bob always supported any benefit and made sure that he contributed to all good causes.
We had one little forum skirmish over gun control, he hammered me pretty hard and was a formidable adversary, but it was never personal and that speaks volumes.
All to often it seems that good people are taken from us before their time. I will miss Robert Bartoli, and I dont even want to think for a moment how much he will be missed by his family and closest friends.
I pray that you have found the peace you sought, rest well my friend...Al
