Obituary of Robert E Krigbaum

Robert Emmett Krigbaum, 86, of Syracuse NY passed away on February 8, 2025.  Robert was an entertainer from the moment he was born on New Year’s Eve in 1938.  He loved to make people laugh and smile. And so he went on to entertain the public for over 50 years.   Robert was known for the many characters he portrayed throughout his career. He was a professional clown named “Kriggs” starting in 1976.  He was a pirate character named “Captain Tacky” on the television show Saturday Showboat.  But his most famous character portrayed would have to be, “Scrooge” in Skaneateles Dickens Christmas in Skaneateles NY.  He really enjoyed playing that role for 20 years. Robert’s favorite pastime was participating in WWII reenactments and collecting military memorabilia. He was a proud U.S. Army veteran where he served with the 10th Mountain Division in the 1950’s. Robert is pre deceased by his parents, Charles “Chuck” and Elizabeth “Betty” (Martin) Krigbaum, a baby sister Margaret, two older brothers Charlie and David. He is survived by his eldest daughter Denice (John) Nelipowitz of Liverpool, a granddaughter Melissa (Brian) Janz of Liverpool, 3 great grandchildren Bella, Tristan and Oliver Janz. Three additional daughters, eight additional grandchildren, six additional great grandchildren, nieces and nephews and one sister in Ohio. 

A private service was held. 

Robert will be laid to rest in the Onondaga County Veterans Memorial Cemetery where he will join his two older brothers. 

Donations may be made in his honor to the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans. nchv.org