WILMINGTON — Alfred Robert “Rob” Minarovic passed away peacefully in his sleep on November 21, 2023.
Rob was born October 11, 1947 in Allentown, Pennsylvania, to the late Alfred Minarovic and Mary Lewis King. He was a ray of joy for his mother, often spending his Tuesdays off to visit, cook her favorite fresh vegetables, and catch up on life.
Rob graduated from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington with a degree in biology. His career as a surgical technician began at what was then known as New Hanover Hospital. After transitioning from the hospital to private practice, he dedicated over 40 years as a loyal and compassionate certified surgical technician, specializing in otolaryngology with Dr. Sherif Botros and Dr. Hoke D. Pollock. His work family was a loving and constant highlight in his tenure. Even following his semi-retirement, he continued to work on a regular schedule, surrounded by work family. Our sincere gratitude to the office of Botros and Pollock for their genuine love for Rob and kindness to our family over the course of his career and beyond.
Whether it was a ride down to the beach or a full day sitting in the sand, Rob enjoyed coastal life in Wilmington and Emerald Isle. He found pleasure in antiquities, art, flowers, the music of Abba, and his cozy townhome community in the heart of historic Wilmington. He could often be seen rollerblading the sidewalks of downtown Wilmington as well as Emerald Isle.
Rob had a special affection for all animals. He befriended sweet neighbor pets, often talking with the dogs he grew to love and even the opossums that came for their nightly meal, compliments of Rob. His love for all creatures, great and small, knew no bounds. In memory are Rob’s beloved feline companions Fernando (affectionately named after the music of Abba), sibling cats Felix and Mia, and his last loving companion, River. From the perspective of a quote belonging to Rob, “He was only a cat but he was human enough to be a great comfort in hours of loneliness and pain.”
Rob was predeceased by his grandparents, Dewey S. and Sarah E. Lewis, his loving mother and stepfather, Mary Lewis King and Homer King, his father, Alfred M. Minarovic, and brother, William Daniel King.
To remember his life and continue his legacy, Rob leaves behind many friends who were like family. They were a thread of support and love woven throughout Rob’s life, truly knowing him better than anyone. The family would like to express gratitude to Rob’s friend of over 40 years, Patrick Pittman. In addition to being very close to Rob, he has been a respectful source of benevolence and knowledge to the family during this unexpected time of sadness. In addition, he is survived by a host of family members who lovingly knew him best as their brother and uncle, “Al.” Surviving are Anthony King and wife Janis, William King and wife Melissa, Cynthia Dale and husband Charlie, John King and wife Veronica, Sharon King, Tim King and wife Lisa, Martha Forsythe and husband Rodney, Andrew King and wife Martha, Dianne Hendricks, and Larry King. He had 30 nieces and nephews, 40 great nieces and nephews, and 15 great-great nieces and nephews.
In all seasons and tributaries of life, Rob was consistently present and loyal. Whether with friends or family, everyone always knew Rob would show up with kindness, a pleasant sense of humor, and the spirit of a classic gentleman. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
A memorial service for Rob will be held on Saturday, December 2, 2023 in the evening. Visitation 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., Memorial Service 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., Coble Funeral & Cremation, Wilmington, North Carolina. Chaplin Lisa Kittrell will be officiating. The family invites everyone to contribute to the service by sharing your fond reflections of Rob during a designated time of open mic. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in memory of “Rob Minarovic” to the New Hanover County Humane Society or an animal charity of your choice.
There is a sacredness in tears. They are not the mark of weakness, but of power. They speak more eloquently than ten thousand tongues. They are the messengers of overwhelming grief, of deep contrition, and of unspeakable love. -Author Unknown
