OUR FOUNDER

BEHIND THE PHANTASY

Phantasy Publishing LLC stands as a testament to the enduring love and partnership between Robert "Bob" D. DiPaolo and his wife, Marcella. Founded with the primary aim of supporting Marcella’s post-retirement writing career, Phantasy Publishing has blossomed into a thriving platform for literary creativity, now also encompassing the works of their grandson.

The journey of Phantasy Publishing began when Marcella, affectionately known as Marky, embarked on her new adventure of writing books after retiring. As she poured her heart into her first book and quickly moved on to her second and third, Bob recognized the need for a dedicated platform to help her share her stories with the world. This led to the creation of Phantasy Publishing LLC, providing Marcella with the means to independently publish her works on Amazon. What started as a supportive gesture evolved into a prolific literary endeavor, with Marcella now boasting nearly 50 published books.

REMEMBERING BOB

Robert "Bob" D. DiPaolo, who passed away on January 26, 2024, at the age of 79, was a man of many talents and passions. Born on March 29, 1944, in Wood River, IL, Bob's life was marked by dedication to his family, his community, and his profession. He married Marcella on November 29, 1969, and their union became the cornerstone of a life filled with shared dreams and accomplishments.

Bob was a Professor Emeritus and the past coordinator of the business department at Lewis & Clark Community College, where he served from August 1983 until his retirement in 2012. Even after retiring, Bob’s passion for teaching continued as he returned as an adjunct professor, imparting knowledge and mentorship until his final days. His contributions to the college were numerous, including developing a systematic approach to various educational programs, participating in significant curricular changes, and mentoring countless students and faculty members.

Contributions and Community Service

Bob was also deeply involved in his community. As a member of Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Bethalto, he was a 3rd Degree Knight with the Knights of Columbus. His commitment to public service extended to his roles on the Bethalto Zoning Board and Bethalto Village Board, where he contributed to various initiatives aimed at improving village life. From performing managerial audits to proposing zoning modifications and developing long-term planning policies, Bob’s efforts had a lasting impact on his community.

A Legacy of Support and Inspiration

Bob’s creation of Phantasy Publishing was not just about helping Marcella publish her books; it was about fostering a creative environment where stories could flourish.

Phantasy Publishing is more than a business; it is a living tribute to Bob’s belief in the power of storytelling and the importance of supporting loved ones in their creative pursuits. As we continue to grow and publish new works, we carry forward the legacy of a man who dedicated his life to education, community service, and the unwavering support of his family’s dreams.

In memory of Robert "Bob" D. DiPaolo, Phantasy Publishing remains a beacon of creativity and a testament to the love and dedication that inspired its founding.