Robert G. Elia Sr., age 84 of Vineland, passed away peacefully on Thursday September 20, 2012 at home. Robert was born in Vineland to the late Louis and Lucy (Cesta) Elia and was a lifelong resident of Vineland. He graduated with the Class of 1945 from Vineland High School. Robert served in the Merchant Marines during WWII. He was a member of Christ the Good Shepherd Parish, Sacred Heart Church, where he served as an usher for over 40 years. Robert was also a member of the American Legion, the American Pool Players Association, S.J. Area 8 Ball Association and the N.R.A. He was a former member of the Vineland Lions Club. Robert assisted at many polling stations on election days. He enjoyed playing pool and sharing time with his family. Robert is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Theresa (Danna) Elia of Vineland. 2 sons; Robert G. Elia Jr. and wife Marcia of Belmont, CA. and Louis T. Elia and wife Vicki of Elizabethtown, PA. 2 daughters; Kathleen Maven and husband Kurk of Millville, and Theresa "Terri" Scapellati of Vineland. His son-in-law John Scapellati of Vineland, 8 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren. Also by 2 sisters-in-law; Hiroko Elia of Bliss, N.Y. and Lucy Young of Hollywood, S.C. and many nieces, nephews and cousins. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00am on Monday, September 24, 2012 at Sacred Heart Church, 1010 E. Landis Ave. Vineland. Burial will follow in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Vineland. The viewing will be held from 7:00 - 9:00 pm on Sunday and again on Monday, from 8:30 - 9:30am at the Wainwright-Bernhardt Funeral Home, 1024 E. Landis Ave. Vineland. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Robert may be made to: Compassionate Care Hospice, 518 South Shore Road, Marmora, NJ 08223 or to the Alzheimer's Association, 3 Eves Drive Suite 310 Marlton, New Jersey 08053 Attn: Donor Services.