Bobby Castellanete was a Bronx icon. He served eight borough presidents and was the first recipient of the “Key to The Bronx” from BP Ruben Diaz. Sadly, he passed away May 27. Castellanete died at the age of 85 from prostate cancer, but had a tremendous impact on the Bronx.

Born in Throggs Neck and raised in Pelham Bay, Castellanete worked in the BP office for 60 years. He served as executive assistant to the borough president, the second highest appointed position in the office behind the deputy borough president. He also worked in the Board of Estimate, where he reviewed, approved or modified contracts between the city and the Bronx.