Obituary of Robert M. Cinelli

Robert M. Cinelli, born February 11, 1960, to the late Robert J. Cinelli, and Anita Randazzo Cinelli, died April 14, 2024, at Niagara Hospice House, surrounded by his loving family.

Bob was a proud graduate of DeSales High School class of 1978. After graduation and a short-lived taste of the California lifestyle, he sheepishly returned to Lockport on a one-way bus ticket provided by Mom and Dad.

Armed only with a little luck, some natural business sense, and his Captain's license, Bob started Cinelli Sportfishing in 1990. Over the next three decades, it grew to be one of the premier charter businesses on Lake Ontario, earning him the respect and friendship of many competitors, first mates, and customers young and old.

Not long after, Bob conceived a business plan for providing proprietary security to corporate meetings, and Cinelli Group was founded. This business has successfully run for more than 30 years, employing dozens of local workers at meetings held throughout the U.S. and providing an economic boost to the Niagara County region.

Bob’s foresight and vision led to his involvement in causes both political and economic, creating a lasting impact on the fishing industry on Lake Ontario and the Hamlet of Olcott. 

He leaves us a legacy of generosity, compassion, mischief, friendship, and especially love. He will be missed beyond measure. 

In addition to his mother, Bob is survived by his wife, Karen; his sister Mary Beth (Joseph) Taylor; and his brothers James (Lisa) and Thomas (Anita). He was an uncle of 14, great uncle of 15, and godfather to many more, all of whom he adored and spoiled. 

Visitation will be held at Prudden and Kandt Funeral Home, 242 Genesee St., on Thursday, April 18 from 4-7 pm. Relatives and friends are invited to a Mass of Christian Burial at St. John the Baptist RC Church, 168 Chestnut St., Lockport, to be celebrated on Friday, April 19 at 10:00 am. Inurnment will be at Queen of Heaven Cemetery. Donations in Bob’s memory can be made to DeSales Catholic School or Niagara Hospice.