Roberto Antonio Jorge Montserrat, M.D., passed away Jan. 1, 2021, with family by his side. He was a renowned physician in private practice for over 50 years, specializing in pregnancy, childbirth and women’s health.
The son of José Montserrat and Consuelo López, Robert was born and raised in Buenos Aires, Argentina with his sister and two brothers. His father José was an executive at RCA.
Robert attended university and medical school in Buenos Aires and emigrated in 1958 to the United States, where he began his residency at Beth David Hospital in New York City. In 1960 he moved to New Jersey and established his obstetrics and gynecology practice at Riverview Medical Center, Monmouth Medical Center and Fitkin Hospital. Robert was recognized by his patients and colleagues as a caring, gentle and sincere human being as well as an exceptional physician.
Over 50 years in practice Robert delivered hundreds of babies into the world and was privileged to be a part of such profoundly meaningful moments in his patients’ lives. Robert’s family has taken great comfort in reading the many letters of gratitude he received from patients over the years. As a physician, Robert practiced not only basic women’s health but believed strongly in focusing on the “whole patient,” devoting time to longer appointments and genuinely listening to his patients as they navigated their lives. Throughout his life, Robert also focused on his own spiritual self-discovery and wellness, concepts that he incorporated into the care of his patients.
While not at the office or hospital, Robert was an avid runner and a fine tennis player. He enjoyed playing with his family and friends at Seabright Lawn and Tennis club. Robert approached life with zest and passion; he enjoyed music, dancing, reading and a very hot cup of strong coffee with biscolavi. He had a deep connection with animals and his family is comforted knowing that Robert is reunited with Pepito, Lolita, Tulip, Maggie, Elmo, Pedro and his beloved dog Simon.
Robert was an advocate for peace and social justice, particularly within the local Hispanic community, and volunteered at Parker Family Health Center in Red Bank.
Dr. Montserrat was predeceased by his first wife Gladys and his son Robert Jr. (“Bobby”). He is survived by his wife Sofia, his previous wife Nancy, and his children, Marguerite “Margie” and her husband Stephen Sheehan, George, Tom Snow and his wife Lydia Knab, and Elizabeth and her husband Matt Torchia; his grandchildren, Wesley, Mia, Ellie, Sarah, Matthew, Katherine and John; and great-grandchildren Murray and Murphy, as well as his brothers-in-law Ibrahim, (and wife Jenna and their daughter Jenny) and Mustafa (and daughter Bianca).
He will be dearly missed by his close friends Miguel Damien and Brian Drazin, for whose constant love and support his family is deeply grateful.
A special thanks to CareOne for the interaction and care rendered to him while in their care.
Due to COVID-19, the family is honoring Robert privately at this time and looks forward to celebrating his life with friends at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made on Robert’s behalf to the Monmouth County SPCA.
The article originally appeared in the January 14 – 20, 2021 print edition of The Two River Times.
