Robert Vitro

Robert Vitro, 81, of Harleysville, passed away on Saturday, February 14, 2026. Born in Harrison, NY, he was the son of the late Grace A. (Selvaggio) Vitro and Mario Vitro. He was the loving and devoted husband of Ana Flavia Fonseca.

Robert "Bob" Vitro cared deeply about creating better opportunities for others by dedicating his life to the unwavering belief that knowledge and access to information could open doors and change lives. From his early days as student council president at Harrison High School to advising fellow students at Clarkson College, to achieving his master's at Cornell University and serving as a Peace Corps volunteer in Latin America, Bob demonstrated a lifelong commitment to expanding knowledge networks through his service and leadership.

He served influential roles with the United Nations and the Inter-American Development Bank, where he championed initiatives connecting emerging information and knowledge industries with opportunities for economic growth and human development in developing nations. Over the course of his distinguished career, he worked with private, public, and academic institutions throughout the United States and around the world, including eleven years living and working in Latin America.

Bob was an ardent advocate of knowledge-based development - the fundamental belief that individuals possess within themselves the power to forge better lives and stronger communities. Being someone who spoke two languages, loved meeting new people, enjoyed traveling, reading and discussing current events and international affairs, his professional accomplishments were matched by his integrity, vision, optimism and deep respect for the potential of others.

His passing has left a void in the hearts of his family and friends. We ask that you remember him not for the way his life ended, but for the way it was lived, and for the profound impact he had on the lives of those who had the pleasure of knowing him.

 In addition to his wife, Ana Flavia Fonseca, he will be lovingly remembered by his sister, Nancy Messer, brother-in-law Jerry Messer, nephews Jared and Keith Messer and extended family members Barbara Fonseca and A. Fonseca.

A private viewing and memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 21st at 1:30 PM at the small chapel at Mount Comfort Cemetery in Alexandria, Virginia. Repast reception immediately following for family and friends.