Remembering Robert Sterling: Love, Loss, and Truth
There are no words that fully capture the loss of a child, but sharing Robert Sterling’s story is one way we honor his life and speak truth about the fentanyl crisis. My hope is that other grieving parents feel seen, understood, and reminded they are not alone.
Robert was more than the way he died. He was a son, a brother, a gifted chef, and a thoughtful seeker of meaning. He had four years in recovery, years marked by growth, rebuilding, and hope. Like so many others, Robert believed he was safe. He bought what he thought was an innocent pill, unaware it contained a lethal dose of fentanyl. One unexpected relapse took his life, a stark reminder that fentanyl leaves no room for mistakes or second chances.
Robert poured his passion into his work as an accomplished chef, refining his craft in the fine dining world at top restaurants throughout Sonoma County. Cooking was his art and his language of love. He also had a deep intellectual curiosity, teaching himself international religion and speaking intelligently about how belief systems shape societies around the world. Conversations with Robert were thoughtful, curious, and never shallow.
Most of all, Robert was deeply loved. He is missed beyond measure by his mom, his two brothers, and his sister. Our family feels his absence every day.
We remember Robert not for how we lost him, but for how he lived—with passion, intelligence, and love.
To fellow grieving parents: your love did not fail. Addiction is not a moral failing, and fentanyl is unforgiving. We remember Robert with passion, intelligence, and love. His life matters. Always.
Holly, Robert’s Mom