Robert S. "Bob" Bivens, Sr., 68, of Hamilton Street in Oswego, passed away at home on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.

Bob was born in Oswego, the son of the late Laverne Bivens and the late Alfia (Lazzaro) Bivens Brace. A lifelong resident, Bob took great pride in his hometown. He spent his entire life here, building not just homes and businesses, but connections, laughter, and memories that will last forever.

In 1978, Bob married the love of his life, Cathy (Bolster) Bivens. They shared 47 wonderful years together — years filled with laughter, hard work, and unwavering devotion. Cathy was his everything, and together they built a beautiful life and family.

Bob was known to many as "Bob the Builder," and to others by his nickname "Pudgie," which came from the Pudgie's Pizza franchises he proudly owned and operated in Central New York. Before that, he worked for Hammermill Paper Corporation in Oswego for ten years, later taking over Pontiac Photo Engraving, where he carried on the family business with dedication and pride. Whatever role he took on, Bob approached his work with skill, heart, and a commitment to helping others.

He was always willing to lend a hand or share his tools to help others. (Just make sure to put them back!)

Bob loved the outdoors — hunting, fishing, and spending time in nature brought him great joy. He was also a dedicated ham radio enthusiast who enjoyed chatting with people from all over, finding friendship across the airwaves.

But when it came to joy, nothing lit Bob up quite like Christmas. He loved the magic of the season and made it his mission to keep the Christmas spirit alive. Every year, his home sparkled — inside and out — with lights, decorations, and laughter. For several years, he even played Santa for the kids, spreading joy with that signature twinkle in his eye.

Of all his roles in life, being "Papa" was his favorite. He adored his grandchildren — Sidney, Parker, Levi, Freyja, Castiel, Amelia, Caleb, Connor, and Mya — and loved making them laugh, especially with his famous invisible ball trick. His love for them was endless, and they brought him immense pride and happiness.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Cathy; his children, Heather (Brian Monica) Bivens of Baldwinsville, Sarah (Victor Nicholas) Bivens of Oswego, Michelle Bivens of Oswego, Rebecca (Christopher McLaughlin) Bivens of Oswego, Michael (Brook) Bivens of Oswego, and Anthony (Amanda Monachino) Bivens of Oswego; his brothers, Randy (Bobby Jean) Bivens of Oswego and Christopher Bivens of North Carolina; his sisters, Joyce (David) Roth of Oswego, Sandra (James) Lagoe of Oswego, Janice (Nancy) Frasier of North Carolina, and Lorraine (Greg Caster) Bivens of Oswego; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

In addition to his parents, Bob was predeceased by his son, Robert Bivens, Jr., and his sister, Janet Bivens.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 29, at Oswego Town Rural Cemetery.

Calling hours will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at the Dain-Cullinan Funeral Home, 112 East Second Street, Oswego.

Bob will be remembered for his generous heart, his sense of humor, his devotion to family, and the love and laughter he brought to everyone around him.

He built so much more than houses — he built a family, a home filled with warmth, and a legacy that will continue to shine as bright as his Christmas lights.