It was with a mix of surprise and much sorrow that the Oakland Park community received, on August 15, the sad news that Robert Neu – or Bob, as he was known – had passed away.
According to his long-time friend Ronnie Todd, who wrote a post on Facebook, Bob had been in the hospital for a few days to treat his aortic valve, and an infection in his heart caused his death.
Admired for his professionalism as a barber at Dick’s Service Station for the last 6 years and loved by all who crossed his path – family, customers, co-workers or just acquaintances – Bob will surely be missed.
Oakland Park Mourns a Kind Soul
While visiting Dick’s Service Station page on Facebook to leave condolences on behalf of the Living in Oakland Park team, we read the messages left by those that loved Bob.
It confirmed what we had already learned about Bob and that was that he was polite, very kind and touched all those with whom he came into contact. These simple words, however, do not do justice to the impact his sweet soul and honest smile had on each and every person who met him.
An Important Member of Dick's Service Station Family
According to a post on Dick’s Service Station’s website, Bob became part of “The Pit Crew” in 2016. “Over that time Bob has evolved from a Pit Crew Member, to a friend, to a family member. To say he has added to the success of the shop would be an understatement. Sometimes quiet and reserved, other times the center of attention with one of his crazy stories“.
The post also reveals another side of Bob, one his closest friends and co-workers knew quite well. “He was a reserved guy at first until you got to know him”. It also describes how Bob overcame challenges he faced and in the end thrived both personally and professionally. “Life wasn’t always easy for him but no matter what he was handed, he found a way not only to survive… but to thrive. Always professional, he took exceptional pride is his craft and absolutely loved his chosen profession as a Master Barber“.
"You Will Always Be with Us!"
At the station where Bob gave his last haircut, his lab coat and work tools remain on the chair. A simple tribute from the entire Dick’s family, who are still reluctant to believe he is gone forever.
“He was the kind of guy who was always there, so much so that we all expected him to always be there. Making each memory we shared with him that much more valuable” the statement on Dick’s website goes on to say.
The note on Bob’s chair “You will always be with us!” represents the mark Bob made on those around him, an everlasting impression that will give him eternal life in the hearts and minds of those who loved him. Rest in peace, Bob.
A Tribute to Bob Neu's Life : Friday Sept. 24, 2021
The owners of Dick’s Service Station, Eric Albert and his husband Christian Paul will host a “Celebration of Life” on Friday Sept 24th 2021 from 7pm-9pm at Dick’s located at 3528 NE 12th Ave, Oakland Park.
At 8pm sharp they will begin a video presentation of Bob’s life. There will be tents set up in the front of the shop with seating and tables. Food & Drinks will be provided to the attendees.
They will also set up a Facebook Event page so those that would like attend can join the page where they will share information to keep everyone up-to-date.
