March 04, 2025
Students gather for Mass to remember Robert W. Urban Jr. ’28
Hundreds of students gathered in St. Dominic Chapel at Providence College on Friday, February 28, for a memorial Mass to remember Robert William Urban Jr. ’28, who died on February 25 after a battle with cancer. He was 19.
Known to his friends as “Robbie,” he was from Westhampton Beach, New York, and graduated from St. Anthony’s High School in South Huntington, where he played varsity lacrosse. PC students who also are St. Anthony’s alumni attended the memorial Mass and were among those who gathered for a reception after in the Campus Ministry Center.
“Over the past few months, Rob fought a valiant battle against cancer,” the high school said in a statement. “We ask that you please keep Robbie and his family, teammates, coaches, and friends in prayer.”
Robbie, a finance major, spent the Fall 2024 semester at PC but was unable to resume classes in January.
When he arrived on campus to register for classes in June 2024, he filled out a postcard explaining what he hoped for at PC: “To learn to be independent and build a successful career in life.”
Gregory Tobolewski, Ph.D., who taught Robbie in a finance course, said in an online tribute, “He was an excellent student, and I truly enjoyed having him in my class. I was very sorry to hear of his passing and wish to offer my condolences. He will be missed.”
In a message to the campus community, College Chaplain Rev. Simon Teller, O.P., noted that Robbie was “twice a Friar,” having graduated from St. Anthony’s, also home of the Friars.
“Robbie was taken from his family and friends too soon,” Father Simon said. “As I was standing at the altar on Friday, praying and mourning for Robbie, I was overwhelmed with one thought: For every one of us, life is fleeting.”
Private services were held in New York. A Celebration of Life is planned for a later date.
