Robert
E.
DePersia

ROBERT E. DEPERSIA  

Camden Courier-Post - October 6, 2008

DEPERSIA, ROBERT E.

Born August 26, 1930 in Camden, NJ to Rocco and Anna DePersia, Robert passed away after a heroic battle with cancer on October 3, 2008.
He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Anna, four sons, Rocco A. DePersia, Esq. (Lydia), Robert E. DePersia, II, Esq. (Janet), State Police Det. Sgt. Rick DePersia (Paula) and Russell A. DePersia, Esq. (Chi) and a daughter Diane Mercer (Robert), 13 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren, sister Diane Holland (Charles), special cousin Florence DePersia and nephew Robert DePersia, longtime friend Harry Viscuzzi and business partner Phyllis Krichev.
A graduate of Camden Catholic High School, he also played professional football for the Zuni Indians, served in the U.S. Coast Guard and worked as a railroad fireman before embarking on a 39 year career with the Camden City Police Department and then with the Camden County Prosecutor's Office, where he holds the distinction of being both the last County Detective and the first full time Narcotics officer. He also headed the homicide unit, the fugitive unit and was a founder and leader of the Narcotics Strike Force. He was the County Range Master for over 20 years and during his career earned over 20 citations and retired with the rank of Detective Captain.
During his life he also owned and operated a pizza shop, a restaurant 'Robert's Roost', played piano and guitar, coached youth football and basketball, wrote a newspaper column, operated Persian Acres riding academy, founded Persian Lancers 4-H Youth Club, Persian Lancers Drill Team and the S.J. Horseman's Association. After retiring from active law enforcement, he began his career as a private detective and with his partner also opened 'A Robert DePersia Agency' bail bonds business in Camden.
Relatives and friends are invited to the viewing 6-9pm Tuesday and 9-11am Wednesday at the BRADLEY FUNERAL HOME, Rt 73 & Evesham Rd,. Marlton. Funeral Service 11am Wednesday at the Funeral Home. Interment St. Joseph's Cemetery, Chews Landing..