Robert John Poznanski, 60, of Long Beach, California, passed away on Sunday, May 31, 2026. Born on August 22, 1965, to Grace and Richard Poznanski, Robert spent his early years in Staten Island, New York. He attended P.S. 45, Prall Junior High School, and graduated from Susan E. Wagner High School in 1983. Robert shared an extraordinary bond with his brother, Richard. They remained inseparable throughout their lives, and after the passing of their father, their relationship grew even stronger. The loss of Richard in December 2010 was one of the greatest heartbreaks of Robert’s life, but he carried his brother’s memory with him always. He is survived by his loving mother, Grace; his stepfather, Al; and his greatest pride and joy, his beloved daughter, Gia Nicole, whom he loved beyond measure.  After graduating from high school, Robert began his career with Security Industry Automation Corporation (SAIC), a company responsible for all of the data processing for the New York Stock Exchange. His work reflected his intelligence, dedication, and strong work ethic. Outside of work, his outgoing personality and love of music led him to DJ on weekends while also working at one of Staten Island’s most beloved establishments, Denino’s Pizzeria, where he made lifelong friendships. In 1987, Robert moved to Long Beach, California, to be closer to his mother and stepfather. He later worked for Transamerica in Pasadena before pursuing his entrepreneurial dream by opening Baby Cakes, a coffee and dessert shop famous for its miniature New York cheesecakes topped with fresh fruit. Built from a cherished family recipe, Baby Cakes became a local success for nearly a decade and reflected Robert’s creativity, passion, and dedication. In 2000, Robert married Carmen Carrillo, and in 2004 they welcomed their daughter, Gia Nicole, who brought immeasurable joy to his life. Fatherhood was one of Robert’s greatest blessings, and he treasured every moment spent with his daughter. Robert later worked in construction renovation until 2017, when he survived a life-threatening aortic dissection. Doctors considered his survival nothing short of miraculous. Over the next nine years, he faced countless medical challenges with incredible courage, resilience, and unwavering determination. Despite the pain he endured, Robert never allowed his struggles to define him. He greeted everyone with a smile, maintained a positive outlook, and lived each day with gratitude and enthusiasm. His strength inspired those around him, and his kindness left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. Robert had an extraordinary love for life. He loved laughing with friends, sharing stories, enjoying good food, and spending time at the casinos—one of his favorite places to relax and have fun. He had a remarkable ability to make people feel welcome, valued, and appreciated. Whether you knew him for decades or had just met him, Robert had a way of making you feel like an old friend. He was loyal, generous, compassionate, and always willing to lend a helping hand. More than anything, Robert cherished the friendships he built throughout his life. He measured his wealth not in possessions, but in the people, he loved and the memories they created together. Fittingly, Robert passed away doing something he enjoyed, surrounded by the excitement and energy he loved. While his passing leaves an immeasurable void, his spirit, laughter, and generous heart will continue to live on in the countless lives he touched. Robert will be deeply missed but never forgotten. His legacy is one of resilience, kindness, friendship, and an unwavering love for life. May he rest in eternal peace, reunited with his father and brother, and forever held in the hearts of those who loved him.