Robert Armando Duke Cendali

July 18, 1992–May 15, 2026

A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away, Robert “Bobby” Armando Duke Cendali was born on July 18,1992. He passed away unexpectedly on May 15, 2026. 

Growing up in Boulder, Bobby built lifelong friendships through football, baseball, and swim teams. He became known for his larger-than-life personality, his sense of humor, and the ability to make anyone feel welcome. Bobby graduated from The Hill School in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, in 2011 and attended the University of Colorado.

 Known by many as “Chef Bobby,” he took great pride in being a chef and had a true passion for food whether he was cooking for the people he loved, smoking meats for big events, or searching for the best sandwich around. During the darkest days of COVID, Bobby contributed to efforts to feed hospital workers and first responders. At the time of his death, Bobby was the Executive Chef at P.F. Chang's in Westminster. His extraordinarily kind heart earned him great respect and admiration from the people who worked alongside and for him.

 Bobby was an avid Denver Broncos and Colorado Buffaloes football fan from his early days. He was always ready to share his enthusiastic support for his teams and could be counted on to show up in team colors on the coldest and snowiest of days. Bobby was a lifelong loyal Yankees supporter from the Derek Jeter years to the current Aaron Judge era. Bobby made a trip to a ball game immeasurably more fun for anyone who was fortunate to attend with him. 

Bobby embraced opportunities to travel. As a boy he enjoyed hiking and camping with cousins. He explored Brazil as a teen and more recently traveled with friends and family to countless concerts and weddings in far-flung destinations. Bobby’s favorite place to visit was Hawaii, and he warmly embraced the Aloha spirit. 

Throughout his life, Bobby loved epic stories, books and movies. He generously shared his knowledge of and enthusiasm for his favorite media with others. From Star Wars and Harry Potter to Spaceballs, Pirates of the Caribbean, Tommy Boy and The Princess Bride, Bobby had a special knack for knowing when to quote an appropriate line from a movie or novel. His ability to deliver the perfect one-liner or joke was legendary. He also loved gaming and Warhammer, and he was a fan of Berserk. Bobby loved music and attending concerts, especially spending evenings at Red Rocks Amphitheatre with friends. His favorite bands included Bassnectar and Linkin Park. 

Bobby’s enormous laugh, warm smile, and big hugs will be deeply missed by everyone who knew and loved him. He had that rare ability to make people of all ages, from grandparents and younger relatives to hungry customers, feel seen and cared for. 

Bobby is survived by his parents, Richard and Beth Cendali; his sister, Francesca Cendali-Salmen; his brother-in-law, Connor Salmen; his nephew; 6 aunts; 6 uncles; 21 cousins, and friends who became family. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Robert and Judith Dippo, and Ida and A.J. Cendali, as well as his beloved dog, Apollo. 

May the Force be with him, always. In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to consider donating in his memory to the Food Bank of the Rockies or Ho-Bo Care Boxer Rescue.