
Robert David Caminiti, “Bob”
Beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather, Army Veteran, and Longtime NBC Associate Director
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Robert David Caminiti, “Bob,” a devoted husband, father and grandfather, proud Army veteran, and respected television professional, who passed away on June 26, 2025, at the age of 88.
Born in 1937 in Brooklyn, NY to Italian immigrants, Bob was a self-described “neighborhood kid.” He loved to share his childhood experiences and some of the cast of characters he grew up with. Growing up at a time of stickball in the streets, corner delis, and a strong sense of neighborhood, his childhood shaped his values and spirit for life.
Bob spent much of his life behind the scenes in the television business. He began his career at NBC in 1956 as a mimeograph operator and rose steadily through the ranks. In the early 1960s, he became a stage manager, working on popular game shows and soap operas ultimately transitioning in 1967 to the role of Associate Director on the game show Jeopardy. In 1982, he joined the production staff of Saturday Night Live, where he remained for the duration of his career retiring in October of 2019. Along the way he had small roles in several films and became a member of the Screen Actors Guild (SAG). Whether on camera or behind the scenes, Bob always maintained a high level of professionalism and integrity.
Beyond the control room, Bob was a passionate proponent for his colleagues. As a longtime Directors Guild of America (DGA) union representative and labor negotiator. He fought tirelessly to protect the rights of union members. He received numerous professional awards from the Guild in recognition of his achievements, both for his work as an Associate Director and for his advocacy on behalf of others.
Outside of work, Bob enjoyed the arts, particularly opera and the ballet. He was passionate about flying and often spoke about his experience as a young man learning to fly small Cessna aircraft, always longing to return to flying. He was a voracious reader with an insatiable curiosity and a love of learning. He relished robust political conversations with people from all walks of life, always striving to open minds. He believed deeply in the importance of dialogue and the power of fearless expression to bring about political transformation and improve the world. At the heart of these discussions was always his hope: to shape a better, more just future especially for the children.
Bob served his country honorably in the United States Army and valued the experience, often sharing how it helped shape his life. He was deeply influenced by the history of the International Brigades who fought in the Spanish Civil War—volunteers who, despite overwhelming odds, stood up to fascism in defense of democracy. Their idealism and courage left an indelible mark on his worldview, fueling his belief in principled resistance and the enduring power of collective action.
Bob leaves behind a legacy of integrity, intellect, and compassion for others. He imagined a better world and worked continuously to help others believe in their power as individuals to truly influence positive change. He is survived by his immediate family: his loving wife, Nathalie Watson Caminiti; his children, Marc “Chris” Caminiti and Susan Fallon; and six grandchildren: Karli Caminiti, Olivia Fallon, Samantha Caminiti, Maggi Caminiti, Matthew Caminiti, and Conor Fallon—whose presence always brought him quiet happiness and a deep sense of pride. He is also remembered by a wide circle of family, friends, and colleagues who will miss his clarity of thought, deeply held convictions, and gregarious nature.
A private service honoring his life will be held for family and friends on July 12th at 11:00 a.m. at the Community Church in Harrington Park, New Jersey.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to organizations he was extremely passionate about and supported reflecting his lifelong commitment to justice, truth, and hope for a brighter future. Membership/Donate – Center for Cuban Studies Donate | The Abraham Lincoln Brigade Archives
“Where there is no hope, it is incumbent on us to invent it.” — Albert Camus
www.pizzifuneralhome.com