Robert Congel dead at 85; Pyramid’s founder built the Destiny USA mall in Syracuse Updated Feb 05, 2021; Facebook Share Syracuse, N.Y. -- Pyramid Cos. founder Robert J. Congel, head of the shopping mall empire that includes Destiny USA, has died at age 85. Congel’s son Stephen J. Congel, CEO of the company founded by his father, confirmed Thursday evening that the developer died on Wednesday at his home in Manlius. “I can confirm the passing of my father, Robert J. Congel yesterday afternoon,” Stephen Congel said in a statement. “He passed away very peacefully at home with his wife and 5 children at his side. Those that knew him know he was a force of nature, a visionary who saw many of his dreams realized, while challenging us constantly with many more to fulfill.