Rob Szpila, Founder

I began this work because my wife and I personally experienced the challenges faced after the death of a loved one, and we learned we weren’t alone. Many of our friends and family experienced the same difficulties. I knew I could make it easier for others by taking care of the many details, and supporting them along the way. 

My personal belief is that how we pass on is an important part of our life.  It’s possible to pass on our legacy — who we are — with intention. And we can make it easier and more beneficial for those who will mourn our passing by taking care of our affairs now.

I also believe that losing loved ones is a normal and important part of life - however challenging it may be. And it is always an opportunity for us to receive who and what has been passed on, and make sense of our own lives and purpose.

Handling the overwhelming clerical and logistical details after the death of a loved one is not the most important part of this, and in fact, can prevent us from spending time on what is most important. It gives me satisfaction to help ease the burden of taking care of these details, either before a passing or after, and helping you pass on and receive a legacy.  

I have worked in a variety of fields, most recently as the Development Officer at the Brattleboro Retreat. And my lifetime of work has also included ministry, event planning, volunteer coordination, non-profit management, fundraising, and computer programming. I received a Masters of Divinity degree from Weston Jesuit School of Theology and coordinated Youth Ministry Events for the Diocese of Burlington, VT for six years. I’ve planned and implemented hundreds of Catholic and interfaith religious services, fundraising and community events in Brattleboro and around the State of Vermont. I’ve lived in Brattleboro for the past 19 years and have grown to love and trust the people of our community where my wife and I raised our four children. I’ve served as the director of the Big Brothers Big Sisters Program at Youth Services, and as a board member of the Brattleboro Rotary Club, Turning Point of Windham County, Brattleboro Literary Festival, Brattleboro School Endowment, and Brattleboro Last Night Celebration.

The Passing On is a limited liability company that I founded in 2020. I gladly work with people of all sexual orientations, and religious, cultural, racial, ethnic, and gender identifications. We are all human, trying to make our way in this one, beautiful life we’re given. And it is my honor to work with you while you prepare to pass on your legacy, or after someone you love passes on.