Bob Iacopi was a long-time member of The Villages Italian Club, which began with fewer than 100 members in 2000 and has now grown to over 500 members. He became President of the Club in 2006 and served in that role until 2014, when he stepped down to care for his ailing wife. He remained on the Board until his recent passing. Bob’s vision of providing quality, affordable events that celebrated Italian culture helped shape the club into one of The Villages’ most popular and successful organizations.
Bob had the unique ability to recognize talent in others and give them the opportunity to shine. He mentored many board members, guiding us through events with patience and confidence, and at other times placing us in challenging roles to help us grow. He was always the extra hand at events and mastered the art of timing and pacing, ensuring everything was ready for each guest’s experience. Bob was the chef behind our July 4th Cannoli Booth, preparing all the filling himself. The cannoli were so popular that they sold out within hours.
Creative and fearless in his ideas, Bob looked forward to presenting new and different events—believing that nothing was ever too big. He chaired three large Italian Club Festas, ranging in size from 350 to 700 guests, all while cheering us on and reassuring us that the task was not overwhelming. The last Festa, held this past October, was what Bob called his “swan song”—his final major event as chairman. He had planned to step away from the Board at the end of December, while continuing to stay involved as the Club’s editor. Bob gave his heart and soul to The Villages Italian Club, and we are forever grateful for his dedication, vision, and generosity.
As much as Bob did for the Italian Club, he touched The Villages in many other ways. In line with his love of all things Italian, he was an avid bocce player. After many active years in the Tennis Club, he transitioned to Pickleball when it was introduced in 2015 and became known for his precise, impressive shots. Even in his late 70s, he was regarded as an advanced player, competing in tournaments until 2022 and serving as the Pickleball Board Historian. He was also the primary organizer of the Pickleball/Bocce Tournament.
He also participated in Golf, and was a past member of the Villages Ironmen’s Club, which focused on 9-Hole Golf. While he enjoyed playing golf, for many years he could be found at the putting green on the weekend mornings, “Putting for Dimes”. Another of his loves was his Thursday night Poker Game. They will miss his quick banter and his deadpan Poker face, as will his many Cribbage partners!
Bob loved to cook and often welcomed friends into his home for elaborate and delicious dinners. This passion, along with his love of wine, led to the creation of the OWLs — the “Old Wine Lovers” Club. He had a special talent for pairing food and wine and took great joy in sharing both with others. Bob was well known and deeply cherished throughout The Villages, and he will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.