Robert Michael Zillioux

With heavy hearts, we share that Robert Zillioux has gone home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. While we grieve his loss, we rejoice knowing he is now in His presence, at peace and filled with everlasting joy.

Robert, 65, passed away on April 24, 2026, in Troutman, NC. Born March 16, 1961, in New Hartford, NY, he lived a full and adventurous life, marked by a strong and guiding faith, love for his family, and a passion for the open road.

Robert attended Utica Free Academy before earning a scholarship to Syracuse University, where he graduated with a degree in Chemical Engineering. He also completed his MBA at SUNY in Albany, NY. His career led him across the country and around the world, resulting in 12 moves throughout his lifetime. Among all the places he lived, his two favorite were their lakehouse on Lake Norman and their time in upstate New York near the lakes of the Adirondak Mountains.

Rob and his wife, Sara, shared 37 years of marriage and, together, raised their two sons, Michael (Tara) and Brian (Lauren) who were a constant source of pride and joy throughout his life. He recently became a new grandfather to his beautiful granddaughter, Charlotte.

Rob found his greatest joy in time spent with family—whether out on the water boating, hitting the slopes, riding dirt bikes, attending car shows, cruising on motorcycles, or enjoying sports together. He had a natural gift for problem-solving and could build or repair nearly anything he set his mind to. Above all, he led by example, inspiring his sons to stay curious, develop practical skills, and grow into capable, independent men.

In addition to his immediate family, he is survived by his brothers, Judd (Diva), Joel (Kristine) and Mark (Kristen); and his sisters, SueAnn Senior and Bethany (Raymond) Gaudin; and many nieces and nephews, who will remember him in their own ways. He is predeceased by his parents Ralph and Beverly Zillioux.

In 2020, Rob retired from the corporate world, though he continued consulting work through 2025. Retirement gave him the opportunity to devote more time to one of his greatest passions—motorcycling. He spent many recent days cruising through the mountains of North Carolina and the surrounding areas, finding both freedom and peace on the open road.

Rob also became deeply involved in several motorcycle ministries, most recently joining United Biker Church, where he stepped into a leadership role to head up the Central North Carolina chapter. He had been looking forward to fulfilling a long-time dream this summer: riding to Sturgis, South Dakota, to attend the annual motorcycle rally.

His faith was at the center of his life. Rob was deeply committed to sharing the Word and living out his relationship with Jesus, a devotion that shaped how he served others and the example he set for those around him.

Rob will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his steady presence and leadership, and the way he made people feel welcome. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends, the Watermark Chuch ministries, the motorcycle community, and the many lives he touched along the way.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Watermark Church on Saturday, June 6, at 10:30. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Samaritan's Purse Operation Christmas Child or Operation Save our Patriots.

Arrangements for Mr. Zillioux are in the care of Troutman Funeral Home.