Beloved Watervliet Diner Owner Bob Ziter Dies at 75

Bob's Diner, a 24-hour staple known for comfort food and community, will continue under the management of Ziter's son.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Bob Ziter, the founder and longtime owner of Bob's Diner in Watervliet, New York, passed away at the age of 75. Ziter opened the retro-style diner in 1979 and it became a local landmark, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner 24/7. The diner will continue operating under the management of Ziter's son, Ryan.

Why it matters

Bob's Diner was a beloved community gathering place in Watervliet for decades, known for its comfort food, 24-hour service, and loyal customer base. The diner's closure would have been a significant loss for the local community, but its continuation under new leadership helps preserve Ziter's legacy.

The details

Ziter purchased the former Verni's Diner in 1979 and renamed it Bob's Diner, turning it into a Capital District landmark. The retro-style restaurant became known for serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner 24 hours a day, seven days a week, as trains rumbled past outside. Generations of customers filled the booths inside, enjoying menu favorites like omelets, hot turkey sandwiches, and spaghetti.

  • Bob Ziter passed away on February 13, 2026.
  • Bob's Diner shared the news of Ziter's passing on Facebook on February 14, 2026.
  • Calling hours for Bob Ziter will be held on February 24, 2026 from 4 to 8 p.m.
  • A funeral service for Bob Ziter is scheduled for February 25, 2026 at 10 a.m.

The players

Bob Ziter

The founder and longtime owner of Bob's Diner in Watervliet, New York, who passed away at the age of 75.

Ryan Ziter

The son of Bob Ziter who will continue operating Bob's Diner under new management.

Bob's Diner

A 24-hour diner in Watervliet, New York that was founded by Bob Ziter in 1979 and became a local landmark known for its comfort food and community atmosphere.

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What they’re saying

“For decades, Bob kept this little retro diner by the train tracks running steadily. Though Bob is no longer with us, his name will always shine on the sign out front.”

— Bob's Diner (Facebook)

“We have enjoyed many meals and loved the entire staff. Bob will be missed.”

— Lucy Ricky (Facebook)

“Many late nights spent in those booths.”

— Kristopher Reckner (Facebook)

“Bob's Diner was 'a little slice of heaven on 19th street' and I recall nights that ended with french fries and gravy after visiting local clubs. Thank's for the memories Bob.”

— John Gray, Author (Online)

What’s next

The diner continues to operate under the management of Bob Ziter's son, Ryan Ziter, carrying on the legacy his father built.

The takeaway

The closure of Bob's Diner would have been a significant loss for the Watervliet community, but its continuation under new leadership helps preserve the legacy of Bob Ziter, who built the diner into a beloved local institution over nearly five decades.