Robert H. (Bob) Kachik

Robert H. (Bob) Kachik

Robert H. (Bob) Kachik peacefully was called home by the Lord on July 7, 2014 surrounded by his family at his residence. Bob was born July 15, 1928 in Bellefonte, PA, the son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Debrasky) Kachik. After proudly serving in the United States Air Force, Bob graduated from Duquesne University with a degree in chemistry. While at Duquesne he was particularly moved by his interaction with one of his professors, Father Knight, whom he spoke about often during his entire life.

Bob first worked as a chemist and metallurgist at the US Steel research lab in Monroeville. He completed his employment career at age 75 with Orgothermit in Lakehurst, NJ. He was especially proud of his accomplishments there, and the friends he made while working there, many of which he kept in contact with after his retirement. During his career Bob was involved in research projects that resulted in numerous patents.

Bob was the eternal optimist and was well known and loved for his sense of humor. Bob enjoyed bowling, golfing, playing his saxophone, and playing video poker. He was also known to scratch an occasional instant lottery ticket. During his last illness he was legendary at St. Lucie Medical Center with his continuous ticket scratching. He was very appreciative of all of his caregivers at St. Lucie Medical Center and Lifecare. He was especially thankful for the efforts of Dr. Barrington Nelson who made his last years as functional as possible.

Bob is survived by his wife, of 62 years, Jacqueline (Smerigan) Kachik, his son Alan Kachik, wife Pam, and Bob’s only grandson Ryan of Pelzer, SC, and son Larry Kachik, wife Kathy, and Bob’s grandpups Gussie and Savannah of Port St. Lucie, FL, a sister Eleanor Tyrone of Bridgeville, PA, step-brothers Andrew and Johnny Kachik of Coraopolis, PA, numerous brothers and sisters-in-laws, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Bob was preceded in death by his infant son Daniel Robert, sister Marcella, and brothers Joseph and Vincent.