Bonfe Leather Shop

Robert Bonfe, born in Atlanta and raised on Long Island, grew up surrounded by the beauty of the sea and a love for craftsmanship. Inspired by his shoemaker grandfather, he mastered leatherwork and later became a beloved special education and science teacher at Central Islip High School. A lifelong adventurer and admirer of nature, Robert's travels to landmarks like Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon deepened his appreciation for Native American artistry. In retirement, he continues creating custom nautical and southwestern-themed belts and buckles, combining his love of history, nature, and design.

Robert lives on Long Island with his wife, Vanessa, and enjoys time with his children and grandchildren, whose visits to his leather workshop inspired this book.