Robert Charles Trabanino
Robert Charles Trabanino, 71, of Houston, Texas, passed away on June 25, 2026. Robert was born October 6, 1954 in Houston to Rudolph “Rudy” and Bobbye Jo Trabanino. He grew up in Clear Lake City with his parents and sister, Blair, where he graduated from Clear Creek High School. There he met the love of his life, Debra Butler.
In his youth, Robert developed an unabashed love for baseball when he played in the NASA Area Little League, begun by his father in 1965, and later played in by his own sons and, presently, his grandsons. He was known as the loudest and proudest member of the Fightin’ Texas Aggies class of 1978 where he studied Architecture and made lifelong memories.
After leaving Texas A&M, Robert and Debra settled in Friendswood where he took up architecture in earnest. Working with IBI Group, formerly Bay Architects, Robert had a notable career as a Project Architect and then Associate Principal, designing many beautiful and unique buildings for Texas, such as the San Jacinto College LyondellBasell Center for Petrochemical, Energy, & Technology building; the Galveston County Criminal Justice Center; and the San Jacinto College Maritime Technology and Training Center building, that received prestigious awards, including the Houston Business Journal Landmark Award. Of all his projects, Robert was the proudest of the San Jacinto College Science and Allied Health Building, South Campus.
In retirement, Robert’s eye for beauty and fine detail appeared in his woodworking, a passion he held even in his A&M years. He used exquisite hardwoods and handmade joinery to create beautiful heirloom pieces for his family, such as bookshelves, cutting boards, a dining table to fit his entire family, and, his final project, a coffee mug cabinet. A “best day” for Robert would involve at least one trip (though some days he made many depending on how many times he neglected to measure twice) out to Clark’s Hardwood Lumber Co. in Houston.
A devout Catholic and avid traveler, Robert saw as much as the world as he could with his wife, making pilgrimages to various holy sites and churches. He regularly studied the Church’s sacred tradition, lives of the Saints, and scriptures, which provided him with strength and inspiration as he grew in holiness. He often said, “I’m ready to go when I go” when asked about his faith.
Robert was a friend to all. Likeable, funny, and engaging, he made all those around him feel welcome. To his family, he was the best man known to them.
Robert is survived by his beloved wife, Debbie, of nearly 49 years; son, Stephen, and wife, Julie; daughter, Andrea, and husband, Lance; daughter, Erica, and husband, Mark; son, Nolan, and wife, Regina; and nine grandchildren, who will always affectionately remember him as “Papaw.” He will be missed immensely.
A Viewing will be held on Tuesday, June 30, 2026 at 6:00 pm at Crowder Funeral Home, 111 E Medical Center Blvd, Webster, Tx 77598. Mass will be held on July 1, 2026 at 10:30 am at Shrine of the True Cross Catholic Church, 300 Fm 517 Rd E, Dickinson, Tx 77539. A private service will be held on July 2, 2026 at Forest Park Lawndale, 6900 Lawndale St, Houston, Tx 77023.
In lieu of flowers, Robert’s family requests that donations be made to the NASA Area Little League. https://www.paypal.com/donate?campaign_id=Q7ULH4NVSMN2S
Robert was a true ‘rock’ in his faith, his family, and his treasured relationships with extended family. Robert, may you rest in God’s arms and listen to the voices of heaven say “welcome.”
My first job out of college was working for Robert at Bay Architects, and he taught me so much about architecture and construction details. A couple of his hand sketches have lived in my Ching book about construction details ever since. He was such a genuine soul and all these years later, I still remember him as someone who loved his family so deeply! He was always bragging on his kids and he spoke of his wife with such love and respect. I’m so sorry for your loss – you family will be in my thoughts. 💙
Our Hearts ache for Debbie and the kids even though we know Trab is rejoicing in a beautiful Heaven. We have shared much with this family and know of their devout faith. The wonderful memories we made with Robert like“I slept with the Mechlers” Hurricane Rita/Ike sleepovers, family weddings, retreats, Aggie Football games and Holy Land Pilgrimage will be forever etched on our heart. We are better people for just knowing Robert. Know of our prayers as you move through this most difficult time. Much love, Cindy and Gary
Robert and Debbie have always been a family model for us at St Paul’s. They always modeled faith in our Lord and gave thanks to God for their beautiful children. At a time when I was just getting married and having children, I couldn’t have asked God for a more beautiful couple and family to emulate. I am thankful that we got to visit recently and break bread together to catch up in April. I know Robert is in heaven but he will be deeply missed. The Colangelo family will be praying for you! Know how much your family is loved. May God allow you all to feel the spiritual hugs you are receiving through these prayers. Robert was a solid man with a joyful heart and always had a smile for us! He will be missed! May God allow you to remember the joyful moments and give you peace during this time of sorrow.
We are so sad that Robert left us. We knew him at A&M and considered him a lifelong friend. Our sincere sympathy to Debbie and all who loved him. Jess & Sandra Pettit