Robert A. Zagami

Robert A. Zagami of Medford, MA passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, August 2, 2022, at the age of 82.

Born on August 8, 1939, in Roxbury MA, he was the loving son of the late Blanche (Crossman) and Vincent Zagami.

Known for his work ethic, great sense of humor, and immense love for his family, Bob was one of a kind.

Bob spent most of his life in and around Boston. He grew up in Roxbury MA, later moving to Dorchester and Medford. Upon leaving high school, Bob began working at Prays Furniture, got married, and joined the army from 1959-1961 where he was stationed in New Jersey. During his time in the army, Bob also received his GED. After leaving the army, he returned to work at Prays Furniture. 

In 1970, Bob, known as Ziggy, began his legendary career with the MBTA. There he worked for 29 years until his retirement in 1999, simultaneously earning an associate degree from Newbury Junior College. Bob’s sense of humor and quick wit were enjoyed and loved by fellow employees and passengers. During his time at the MBTA, Ziggy received over 27 years of safe driving awards and was the finalist in numerous annual bus rodeos. In addition, Bob was chosen to train hundreds of fellow bus operators as they began their careers. After his retirement, Bob proudly began a weekly breakfast with other retired MBTA employees at Brothers restaurant in Wakefield. 

Bob was a devoted father who raised his four children in Medford, MA. His home was a welcoming place for his children and their friends where they all shared wonderful memories of watching Boston sports teams, playing basketball, and swimming in their pool. An incredible handyman, Bob dedicated much of his time to helping his children with various projects at their homes and would drop everything to be there for them if he was needed.

One of Bob’s greatest roles was being Pa to his nine grandchildren, who he showered with love. Nothing gave him more joy than creating memories with them. From the many games he would play to his famous jokes, he brightened a room just by walking into it. Bob knew how to make every single one of them feel special and in turn they loved spending every minute they could with him.

Bob’s cancer battle spanned 16 years, but you would never know he had any health issues. His positive attitude under the toughest of circumstances inspired others daily. He was an avid walker who spent a lot of time walking around the neighborhoods of Medford and the Wakefield Lake. Bob never stopped fighting, sharing his good humor and love with his family and friends until the end. He has left them with lasting memories, and he will never be forgotten.

Bob is the beloved father of Anthony Zagami and his wife Christina, Peter Zagami and his wife Arlane, Cynthia Scali and her husband Steven, Rocco Zagami and his wife Lori, and the late Leo Zagami. Pa is cherished and loved by his grandchildren Sofia, Isabella, Gianna, Antonia, Nicole, Vincent, Amy, Carmella and Adriana. He is the dear brother of Norma Lynch and the late Grace Mason, Javon McAllister, Leo Zagami, Fred Zagami and Alice Zagami. Bob is also survived by his nieces, nephews, and many great friends.

As Bob always said, “By the time I get to Phoenix I’ll be in Arizona”.

Family and friends are cordially invited to gather and share memories with Bob’s Family on Sunday, August 7^th from 11am – 2pm at the Barile Family Funeral Home, 482 Main Street, STONEHAM. Parking attendants and elevator are available.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations in Bob’s memory to Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 Saint Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38501.

For more information, www.facebook.com/BarileFamilyFuneralHome