Beloved Football Coach Dead In 'Horrifying' Car Accident At 45

A beloved football coach has been officially pronounced dead following a “horrifying” car accident that took place this week.

Robert Violante, affectionately known as Rob, was one of four people killed in a devastating two-car accident in New York earlier this week. The football coach, known as Coach V, was driving home from work at Bergenfield High School in Bergen County. He was involved in a tragic two-car accident.

From the report:

The fatal crash happened around 5 p.m. near milepost 9.2 in the Westchester County town of New Castle, when a Sprinter van traveling south on the Taconic crossed the center median and slammed into a Honda sedan driving northbound in the passing lane, as Daily Voice previously reported.

The impact caused the van to overturn and become engulfed in flames. Three people in the van died at the scene. Violante, a Westchester resident who lived in Somers, was taken to the hospital but later died from his injuries.

It was a fiery accident.

His family released a lengthy obituary statement:

Robert Violante, affectionately known as Rob, was born on December 21, 1979, in Yonkers, New York, to loving parents Frank and Martha Violante. The middle of three sons, Rob shared a close bond with his brothers, Chris and Brian.

A gifted athlete from a young age, Rob shined at Somers High School as a standout in both football and basketball. His talent and determination led him to Iona University, where he played collegiate football before continuing his athletic career at the University of Delaware. He then earned a degree in Special Education at Mercy College and later obtaining a master’s degree in Educational Administration.

Rob dedicated his life to education and mentorship. He began his professional journey as a special education teacher and rose to the role of Dean of Students at Bergenfield High School in New Jersey. His passion for sports continued as he coached both varsity football and track, inspiring countless students on and off the field.

Rob’s impact extended far beyond the classroom and the sidelines. He was known for his warmth, leadership, and unwavering commitment to those around him. A beloved son, brother, uncle, and coach, Rob touched the lives of many and leaves behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and dedication.

He is survived by his parents, Frank and Martha; his brothers Chris (and wife Hoda) and Brian (and wife Laura); his cherished nephews Andrew, Cameron, Dylan, and Jordan; his niece Natalie; and his longtime girlfriend, Dana Brescia. Rob’s presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Family & Friends are invited to Cassidy-Flynn Funeral Directors on Tuesday May 20th 2025 from 4:00pm to 8:00pm for visitation. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated for Robert on Wednesday May 21, 2025 at 10:00am St. Patrick’s Church 137 Moseman Road Yorktown Heights, NY10598 Burial will follow St. Francis Cemetery Mt. Kisco, NY 10549

In lieu of flowers we have set up a memorial scholarship in Rob’s honor at Bergenfield High School. If you would like to contribute, please send a check made out to the Bergenfield Board of Education. In the memo line : The Rob Violante Memorial Scholarship

Mail checks to:

Matt McGrath

Bergenfield High School

80 South Prospect Avenue

Bergenfield NJ 07621

Our thoughts continue to be with his friends and family members.

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