Remembering Bob Levin – A Kind Heart, A Generous Spirit
By Liz Ahearn | September 28, 2024
On our recent journey through Italy, we were hit with the heartbreaking news that one of our dearest neighbors and customers, Bob Levin, had tragically lost his life in a hit-and-run accident while biking. The news weighed heavily on us during our travels, but it also shifted our mindset toward reflection and gratitude.
For those who knew Bob, he was a pillar of positivity. Always thankful for what he had, Bob lived his life helping others—whether it was supporting his neighbors or rescuing animals. Many of you knew him as “Pug Bob,” a nickname born from his deep love for his two late pugs. His compassion extended to his most recent companions, his cat, Winnie, and his beloved dog, Zelda.
Bob was a kind, generous soul who always found time for others, often putting their needs before his own. He was a constant presence in our neighborhood and at Picnic, always smiling, always grateful. His impact on our community is undeniable, and he will be deeply missed.
In honor of Bob’s memory and his spirit of giving, we’re sharing stories from friends, neighbors, and customers who cherished their time with him. Here are some of the memories we’ve collected:
“I knew Bob through my special dog group that meets almost every evening at the park at the beach on Jarvis. Bob often came by with Zelda and sometimes with another dog he was caring for at the time. We always talked about dogs. As my dog Tim was aging and his needs grew greater, Bob always had such kind words for me. He acknowledged my efforts to make Tim comfortable and shared his experiences with his beloved pugs. Bob was a kind-hearted person, and he will be missed in our community. Rest in peace, Bob! I hope you are with your pugs, and you’ll be glad to know your fur babies on earth are well cared for.” – Valerie Willuweit, neighbor and Picnic customer
“He was always thoughtful and offered that we could call him if we ever felt uncomfortable walking home by ourselves after closing. If he was around during open, he would want to help us set up the patio. He always had a good heart and wanted to help.” – Alicia Obertin, General Manager at Picnic
“Bob was one of the first to frequent Picnic when we opened. He’s always been a champion for Picnic, promoting it as a community business and being vocal about how much he appreciated us. I wish I had told him how much I appreciated him in return. I can only hope he knew—through the way he always made us smile and how we would always say yes to supporting his fundraising efforts for The Epilepsy Foundation. Bob had a way of making us all feel seen and valued, and we were lucky to have him as part of our Picnic family.” – Liz Ahearn, Founder of Picnic
“Bob was the first to welcome me when I moved to the neighborhood. He made me feel like I belonged here. He would always check in on me, making sure I was doing okay. It’s those little things that made Bob so special.” – Neighbor
“I will never forget how Bob rescued his dog, Zelda. He would talk about how much joy she brought to his life, and you could see it every time he was with her. It’s a reminder of how big his heart was, always ready to help those in need, human or animal.” – Emily Pleasant, Assistant at Picnic.
In Bob’s honor, we are raising funds for two causes close to his heart: Felines & Canines and The Epilepsy Foundation. From October 3rd-6th, 50% of our tips will go toward these organizations. Additionally, throughout October, show us a receipt of your donation to either charity, and we’ll give you 15% off your order at Picnic.
Bob lived his life generously and selflessly, and we hope to carry that spirit forward. Please join us in remembering Bob by contributing to these causes and spreading kindness wherever you can.
Let’s continue Bob’s legacy together.
